A significant step toward the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure has been taken by IONNA, the joint venture formed by eight of the world’s largest automakers: Stellantis, BMW, General Motors (GM), Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, and Toyota. IONNA recently broke ground for its first-ever EV charging station, or “rechargery,” in Apex, North Carolina, marking a pivotal moment for the company and the state.
A New Era of EV Charging in Apex –
IONNA’s rechargery will be located in the historic district of Apex, a town known for its roots in transportation. The site chosen is particularly symbolic as it transforms one of the town’s original gas stations into a state-of-the-art EV charging hub, dating back nearly a century. This location will honor Apex’s heritage while positioning it as a leader in modern transportation.
The new rechargery is designed to accommodate both local EV drivers and those traveling through the region. It will feature 10 covered parking bays, offering protection from the weather, and provide ultra-fast charging options with Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports. These charging stations are capable of delivering up to 400 kW of power and 800-plus volts, ensuring that users can charge their vehicles quickly and efficiently.
Enhancing the Charging Experience –
What sets IONNA’s first rechargery apart is its focus on the overall customer experience. The facility will offer an indoor driver’s lounge, providing secure access to restrooms, coffee service, food and beverages, and Wi-Fi. Drivers will be able to relax, grab a bite to eat, or even catch up on work while their vehicles charge. In addition, outdoor amenities, including pet-friendly areas, will be just a few steps away from the charging bays.
This combination of practical charging facilities and thoughtful customer service will set a new standard in the industry, making the experience of owning and driving an EV more convenient and enjoyable.
Leadership and Vision for the Future –
IONNA is also growing its leadership team, with the recent appointment of Jackie Slope as chief technology officer (CTO). Slope brings over 15 years of experience from the sports and entertainment sectors, where she focused on creating exceptional customer experiences at renowned venues such as Crypto.com Arena and Madison Square Garden. Her role at IONNA will involve overseeing the deployment of innovative technologies to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for EV drivers.
Slope expressed enthusiasm about her new role in her own words: “Having spent my career raising the bar around the customer experience, I am excited to find ways to innovate and elevate the charging experience by serving the customer above all else in this new and exciting industry.”
The Future of IONNA’s Charging Network –
IONNA is poised to play a critical role in the growing EV market. Backed by eight of the world’s largest automakers, the company plans to deploy a nationwide network of ultra-fast charging stations, with a goal of having over 30,000 charging points in place by 2030. These stations will ensure reliability and provide drivers with the amenities they need for a smooth and stress-free experience, whether charging their vehicles for a local commute or a long-distance trip.
