BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes, and Stellantis have all come together to create Ionna, an EV charging network that will spread across the US. The endeavor plans to create 30,000 charging stations by 2030, making it easier for people to own electric vehicles.
Ionna
Ionna is the American version of a European network of charging stations called Ionity and hopes to mimic its namesake’s success. Some charging stations will be placed along highways and rural areas. Others will provide bathrooms and refreshments while customers wait. Each car company will alter its apps and in-car route planning to accommodate the charging stations within the network. A source who works with Ionna explained, “The goal is to have six to 10 charging cables capable of 350 kW at each. We will set expectations clearly, for the right equipment, the right experience.” They listed reliability, functionality, and a pleasant customer experience as priorities for the company.
There’s Some Competition
Ionna is hardly the first of its kind. In fact, the company has some serious competition. First of all, there’s Tesla’s Supercharger Network, which is planning to open to non-Tesla EV drivers in the near future. Then, there’s Electrify America which made a big announcement just one day before Ionna stepped into the spotlight. Electrify America announced that it will open an indoor location in San Francisco. This charging station will have 20 chargers capable of up to 350 kilowatts, it includes two customer lounges, two restrooms with baby changing stations, high-speed Wi-Fi, and onsite security.
May the best charging station win.