- Major Automakers joined hands to build the most robust EV Charging network Around US.
- Charging Stations to be powered by renewable Energy.
- The project it expected to be completed by 2030.
- This Charging infra plan has a real possible to manifest in reality.
Times are Changing and one of the major problems with electric vehicles ‘Range anxiety’ is on the verge of disappearing. To solve the issue of Range Anxiety we are bringing more Charging stations.
What? Not excited anymore? Well, you might have heard similar promises earlier but this time it’s more robust, well-calculated, and too good to be true.
Future Unfolding
Some of the most prestigious automakers worldwide, namely BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis, are rallying together for a groundbreaking initiative. They’ve announced the formation of a joint venture to create a robust EV charging network spanning the length and breadth of North America.
The partnership represents a significant stride in the right direction, committing to install “at least” 30,000 high-speed EV chargers by the end of the decade. The clock is ticking, and the first chargers are slated to open across the US as early as summer 2024.
Location-wise, the charging network will mirror the distribution of existing EV charging networks. These charging stations will dot the US and Canadian highways, making long-distance EV travel more feasible. Plus, they will be found in urban areas, ensuring daily EV users have ample opportunity to top up their vehicles’ batteries.
Standardization
One of the key considerations of the venture is compatibility. The charging stations will support EV models from all the partnered automakers, marking a significant shift towards standardization in the industry. Moreover, the partners aim to integrate the “Plug and Charge” standard currently being developed by the Federal Highway Administration. This will streamline the charging process, allowing drivers to connect their vehicles and commence charging without any additional steps or payment processing at the station.
Clean Energy
Beyond the physical infrastructure and technology, the joint venture has also showcased its commitment to sustainability. The planned network will be powered entirely by renewable energy sources, ensuring the EV revolution doesn’t merely shift the carbon footprint from exhaust pipes to power plants.
However, our Canadian friends will have to exercise a bit of patience. The installation of initial charging stations in Canada will occur at a later stage in the project rollout. Regardless, all stations across the US and Canada will feature standardized Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports along with widely used Combined Charging System (CCS) plugs. This will ensure compatibility across a wide range of EV models, including those not part of the joint venture.
Completion Estimates:
The automakers are hopeful about the project, eyeing 2030 as the completion date for the full charging network. This venture is an illustration of how collaboration can drive innovation and standardization in an industry. It offers an exciting glimpse into the future of EV charging infrastructure and signifies an important step towards a greener and more interconnected future on our roads.
By aligning themselves with the ethos of renewable energy and meeting the pressing demand for accessible EV infrastructure, these automakers are not only supporting the adoption of EVs but also paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable world. It’s clear that the road to a fully electrified future in North America is charging ahead at full speed!
