The goal of this joint venture is to install at least 30,000 high-powered charge points in urban and highway locations to expand access to charging for electric vehicle (EV) owners. The charging network will be open to all battery-powered EVs from any automaker and will offer both Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors.
The first charging stations of the as-yet-unnamed network are scheduled to open in the United States in the summer of 2024 and in Canada at a later stage.
According to initial plans, the charging stations will be deployed in metropolitan areas and along major highways, including connecting corridors and vacation routes, so that a charging station will be available "wherever people may choose to live, work and travel."
Each site will be equipped with multiple high-powered DC chargers and will offer canopies wherever possible, as well as amenities such as restrooms, food service, and retail operations – either nearby or within the same complex. A select number of flagship stations will include additional amenities, although the press release does not offer specifics.
The new charging network promises to offer a seamless integration with participating automakers' in-vehicle and in-app experiences, including reservations, intelligent route planning and navigation, payment applications, transparent energy management and more.
In addition, the network will leverage Plug & Charge technology for a more user-friendly customer experience.
The automakers expect their charging stations to meet or exceed the spirit and requirements of the US National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, and aim to become the leading network of reliable high-powered charging stations in North America.
The seven partners will establish the joint venture this year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
Sources: BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, Stellantis
