Leaders from seven global automakers announced Wednesday they would be working together to create a new high-powered charging network to expand access to EV charging stations across the country.
Officials from BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes- Benz Group, Stellantis NV announced the joint venture would develop a new, high-powered charging network with at least 30,000 charging point in urban and highway locations. The stations would be accessible to all EV customers and offer both Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors. Officials said the goal is to open the first stations in the summer of 2024.
“North America is one of the world’s most important car markets – with the potential to be a leader in electromobility,” BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse said. “Accessibility to high-speed charging is one of the key enablers to accelerate this transition. Therefore, seven automakers are forming this joint venture with the goal of creating a positive charging experience for EV consumers.”
With investments in public charging happening on the federal and state levels, the joint venture will leverage public and private funds to accelerate development of a high-powered charging network for EV owners, the companies said. Officials said they are focusing on becoming the leading network of reliable EV charging stations in North America. The joint venture is expected to be established this year, and is subject to customary closing conditions and regulations.
“GM’s commitment to an all-electric future is focused not only on delivering EVs our customers love, but investing in charging and working across the industry to make it more accessible. The better experience people have, the faster EV adoption will grow,” GM CEO Mary Barra said.