Seven automakers are partnering to build thousands of universal electric vehicle chargers in an attempt to boost sales in the U.S.
The new joint venture involves Stellantis, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Hyundai, Kia and General Motors. The car manufacturers plan to install more than 30,000 electric vehicle charging stations across the country. Each station will be powered entirely by renewable energy and feature both NACS and CCS connectors, making them accessible to virtually all EV drivers. In a press release, the automakers said the new installations would feature canopies for shade, with locations chosen based on nearby amenities such as food and restrooms.
“A select number of flagship stations will be equipped with additional amenities, delivering a premier experience designed to showcase the future of charging,” reads the statement. The inclusion of both CCS and NACS connections could also give the joint venture access to tax credits within the Inflation Reduction Act. Earlier in the year, the Biden Administration noted that federal incentives for electric vehicle charging required universal support to meet the needs of all drivers.
At present, the U.S. contains approximately 32,000 public-access stations supporting more than 2 million EV drivers. In a survey conducted by Altman Solon, 79% of American car buyers cited inadequate access to charging as a primary reason for avoiding an electric vehicle purchase. Energy companies, charging station manufacturers, automakers and government agencies have been ramping up efforts to upgrade the nation’s infrastructure and remove roadblocks to EV adoption in preparation for a zero-emissions future.
