Remember that big EV charging network that was announced last July, the one seven global automakers are partnering to build? Yeah, well the operation finally has a name, and it’s called Ionna.
Announced last Friday, this intriguing new charging network has been blessed with ever-important regulatory approval. Accordingly, Ionna can officially begin operations.
The goal of this new outfit is to build the industry’s most reliable and accessible DC fast-charging network in North America. Once their plans come to fruition, Ionna is expected to have at least 30,000 chargers in service across the continent, a staggering number. In comparison, Electrify America claims to be the largest open DC fast-charging network in the U.S. today, and it operates fewer than 4,000 chargers at just shy of 900 stations. If Ionna can get tens of thousands of EV chargers installed – and working reliably, of course – it could be a game-changer for electric vehicle adoption.
Ionna will be open to all makes and models because it will induce both NACS and CCS connectors, well, nearly all vehicles. If you drive a Nissan Leaf or plug-in hybrid Mitsubishi Outlander, models fitted with a CHAdeMO port, you may be out of luck, relegated to topping up at Electrify America, ChargePoint or another network.
Aside from plentiful chargers, Ionna is also aiming to offer EV drivers other benefits for a “best-in-class charging experience.” They will aim to provide amenities like retail stores, restrooms and places to grab a bite to eat. Basically, their chargers will be located in spots with amenities either in the same complex or close by.
Beyond all that, this charging network aims to run on renewable energy and seamlessly integrate with participating automakers’ vehicles. This should enable convenient features like intelligent route planning, seamless payment capability, the ability to reserve a charger, and much more.
BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis are the seven automakers partnering to build the Ionna network, which will be headed up by CEO Seth Cutler. Prior to taking the helm of Ionna, he was the senior vice president of technical operations at EV Connect, so he should know a thing or two about building out electric vehicle charging networks.
“I am honored to lead Ionna and work alongside these esteemed automakers in shaping the future of electric mobility,” said Cutler in a media release. “Our shared commitment to creating an extensive, high-powered charging network reflects our dedication to revolutionizing the entire EV charging experience and helping to drive widespread EV adoption.” Let’s hope Ionna can deliver on its ambitious promises.
