Republicans can't stop it. Big business is charging forward (pun intended). The sooner the better.
7 automakers join forces to double EV fast-charger network in U.S.
Seven major automakers on Wednesday announced plans to nearly double the nation’s network of high-powered electric vehicle chargers, an effort to address a key consumer reservation about EVs — that they may not have a place to power up on the road.
The plan calls for adding 30,000 fast chargers in urban areas and along highways, according to a joint statement by General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, BMW Group, Mercedes-Benz Group and Stellantis N.V. The U.S. network had about 32,000 such chargers as of July, according to the Energy Department.
The first stations are expected to be open by summer 2024.
“Charging is an inseparable part of the EV experience, and this network will be another step to make it as convenient as possible,” said Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius.
It is also crucial to broader efforts to wean American motorists away from gas power. U.S. EV sales are expected to make up more than half of all car sales by 2030, the companies said Wednesday. But EV prices — which averaged over $53,000 in June 2023 — represent a major hurdle for consumers, said Michelle Krebs, executive analyst at Cox Automotive. Another big barrier is charging infrastructure and anxiety about how far the cars can drive without running out of power, she said.
7 automakers join forces to double EV fast-charger network in U.S.
Seven major automakers on Wednesday announced plans to nearly double the nation’s network of high-powered electric vehicle chargers, an effort to address a key consumer reservation about EVs — that they may not have a place to power up on the road.
The plan calls for adding 30,000 fast chargers in urban areas and along highways, according to a joint statement by General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, BMW Group, Mercedes-Benz Group and Stellantis N.V. The U.S. network had about 32,000 such chargers as of July, according to the Energy Department.
The first stations are expected to be open by summer 2024.
“Charging is an inseparable part of the EV experience, and this network will be another step to make it as convenient as possible,” said Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius.
It is also crucial to broader efforts to wean American motorists away from gas power. U.S. EV sales are expected to make up more than half of all car sales by 2030, the companies said Wednesday. But EV prices — which averaged over $53,000 in June 2023 — represent a major hurdle for consumers, said Michelle Krebs, executive analyst at Cox Automotive. Another big barrier is charging infrastructure and anxiety about how far the cars can drive without running out of power, she said.
