Hyundai Motor Company alongside Kia Motors Corporation have invested in IONITY, a joint venture established in 2017 between BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company, and Volkswagen Group with Porsche AG. Since its formation, it currently has nearly 140 charging stations in Europe in operation with 50 more under construction. The technology of IONITY is characterized by a charging capacity of up to 350 kilowatts, its use of the universal charging standard Combined Charging System ensures the widest possible compatibility across EVs.
IONITY is expanding its network to 400 fast-charging stations by 2020, with an average of at least one site every 120 kilometers along major European highways. Its European distribution and brand-agnostic approach will significantly improve the image and accessibility of electric vehicles for both current EV users and prospective buyers.
Under the agreement Hyundai and Kia, affiliated automotive companies for Hyundai Motor Group (the Group), will play a key role in further enhancing the availability of EV charging stations with additional convenience benefits for its customers. The Group will obtain equal shares in IONITY as those of founding partners, BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company, and Porsche AG.
The decision to join this network will provide enhanced benefits for Hyundai and Kia’s European customers. Starting in 2021, Hyundai and Kia EVs will be equipped with 800 volt charging systems to accommodate IONITY’s maximum charging power of 350 kilowatts. Customers will be able to use IONITY’s HPC facilities, which are equipped with digital payment options, to significantly reduce charging times and better facilitate long-distance travel.
Thomas Schemera, executive vice president and head of product division, Hyundai Motor Group, said: “Our participation in this joint venture reaffirms the Group’s commitment to future electromobility. I am confident that our work with IONITY will open a new era of high-power charging experiences, where charging will be seamless and easier than refueling for our customers.”
Michael Hajesch, CEO, IONITY, said: “Hyundai Motor Group brings significant international experience and know-how with a full strategic commitment to electromobility. The participation of new investors in IONITY is a clear signal of trust indicating that the work of our young company is already bearing fruit.”
