There are more than 32,000 DC chargers in North America for the most than 2 million EVs on the road. A group of automakers looks to almost double that number starting next year.
BMW Group, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group and Stellantis NV revealed their plan to build a universal network of 30,000 fast chargers across North America, according to a press release posted on Wednesday. The joint venture will start later this year and the first stations will open 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. Accessibility to high-speed charging is one of the key enablers to accelerate this transition,” BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse said in the statement. “Therefore, seven automakers are forming this joint venture with the goal of creating a positive charging experience for EV consumers.”
The charging sites will have fast chargers with both CCS and NACS connections. Stations will be placed in convenient locations and offer amenities such as restrooms, food services and retailers nearby.
The Biden administration has made EVs and charging stations a priority since he’s taken office. This includes billions in a bipartisan infrastructure bill in 2021 to create a national network of charging stations and a National Charging Experience Consortium, tasked with overseeing payment processing, data sharing and vehicle-charger communication
