Seven Automakers Including GM and Hyundai, Planning New EV Charging Network

Seven of the largest automakers in the world are partnering to build a new EV charging network in the U.S. and Canada. The target is 30,000 locations across the continent with the first set to open next summer.

The group includes BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis. The seven are forming a joint venture to use public and private funds to get more chargers for the rapidly growing number of EVs on the road. The group said that it wants to be the "leading network of reliable high-powered charging stations in North America."

The new charging stations will have both CCS and Tesla NACS plugs. The network, which does not yet have a name, will be open to EVs of all makes that use those two plugs, not just member vehicles.

Some of these automakers, Notably GM and Mercedes-Benz, have just announced plans to partner with Tesla and its supercharger network. Those automakers are putting Tesla's NACS charge ports on their vehicles in the coming years.

The announcement said that the charging network will put a focus on customer comfort and ease of charging, things often lacking in the current networks. There are plans for amenities including restrooms, food, and retail nearby. Think gas stations, without the gas. The automakers are also expecting "seamless integration" with in-vehicle apps that will let drivers reserve stations, have simplified payments, and Plug & Charge technology.

No timeline was announced for the completion of the 30,000 charge point goal. While the first stations are set for 2024 in the U.S. there was no suggested schedule at all for stations in Canada. That slow implementation is becoming a more serious problem for Canadian EV buyers. Many of the largest charge networks, including Electrify Canada, can be found only in a few provinces. Other provincial networks include only slow-speed basic L3 charging stations.

"We believe that a charging network at scale is vital to protecting freedom of mobility for all, especially as we work to achieve our ambitious carbon neutrality plan. A strong charging network should be available for all - under the same conditions - and be built together with a win-win spirit. I want to thank each colleague involved, as it is a milestone example of our collective intelligence to listen and serve our customers," said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares.