Although a number of automakers have joined Tesla’s supercharger network, many electric vehicle makers are looking for another way.
Seven international electric vehicle makers, BMW (BMWYY), GM (GM), Honda, (HMC), Hyundai (HYMTF), Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group (MBGAF), and Stellantis (STLA), have announced that they are going to join forces to create a new charging network which they say will, “significantly expand access to high-powered charging” in North America.
The venture, which has yet to be given a name, will create a minimum of 30,000 “high powered” charging stations across North America, with the first stations opening in the summer of 2024.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the joint venture will have funding of at least $1 billion.
The charging stations will allow any vehicle to recharge, provided the vehicle uses the Combined Charging System (CCS) or Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). The venture has not made clear if vehicles using the Tesla standard will require an adaptor or not.
GM and Mercedes, two of the automakers in the venture have partnerships with Tesla which will see the NACS plugs used in their vehicles in 2025, and which will give their customers access to Tesla’s supercharging network starting next year. It has been rumored that both Kia and Hyundai are discussing a similar deal with Tesla.
GM has said the new joint venture will have no effect on its deal with Tesla.
A GM spokesperson said, “GM is committed to investing in an EV ecosystem that ensures widespread access to charging for EV drivers. By working with companies across the industry to accelerate the deployment of charging infrastructure, we can continue to expand access across residential, workplace, and public charging. This announcement won’t change GM’s existing commitments or collaborations, but is in addition to those initiatives.”
In an interview, a Mercedes spokesperson said, “Today’s announcement will not affect EV charging plans previously announced by Mercedes-Benz.” Reportedly Mercedes intends to build its own custom charging network with 3,000 high powered DC chargers throughout North America.
The new joint venture will include multiple high-power DC chargers at each charging location, and will feature additional amenities such as restrooms and food service, and will be powered by renewable energy. Initial stations will be constructed near major cities, with later stations constructed along highways and travel corridors.
The closing of the joint venture is expected to happen later this year, subject to all regulatory approvals.
