In a significant move that marks a new era of electric vehicle (EV) cooperation, Stellantis, the parent company of automotive giants Jeep and Chrysler, has announced its commitment to adopting Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS).
This decision not only propels Stellantis into the forefront of EV innovation but also cements Tesla’s position in setting a unified charging infrastructure across North America.
A New Chapter for Electric Vehicles
Starting in 2025, Stellantis plans to equip specific electric vehicle models under its extensive brand umbrella with Tesla’s NACS charging port. This strategic alliance will also see the provision of adapters for current EV owners, facilitating seamless access to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network.
While the specifics of whether these adapters will be offered complimentary remain under wraps, the move is a clear nod towards enhancing EV user convenience and interoperability.
The Expansion of Tesla’s Supercharger Network
Tesla’s initiative in November 2022 to open its Supercharger network to other automakers was a groundbreaking step toward a unified EV charging standard. By incorporating the NACS port, companies like Ford, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz, alongside emerging players Rivian and Lucid, have joined the movement.
Stellantis’ announcement follows in the footsteps of Volkswagen’s December decision, leaving only a few smaller manufacturers on the sidelines.
IONNA EV Charging Network: A Collaborative Effort
In parallel, Stellantis is not just following but also leading the charge in EV infrastructure development through its involvement in the IONNA EV charging network. This ambitious project, which recently received regulatory approval, aims to deploy 30,000 fast-charging stations across strategic locations, potentially outpacing Tesla’s Supercharger network in coverage and capacity.
With construction expected to conclude by year’s end, the IONNA initiative represents a significant leap towards an interconnected and accessible EV ecosystem.
NEWS: Stellantis will be adopting Tesla’s North American Charging Standard in 2025.
Welcome to the best EV charging network in the world!👏
— Teslaconomics (@Teslaconomics) February 12, 2024
The Financial Backbone: ACC’s European Expansion
Adding to its portfolio of forward-looking projects, Stellantis, in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Group AG, is on the brink of securing a substantial €4.4 billion in funding for the Automotive Cells Company SE (ACC). This joint venture is geared towards bolstering Europe’s EV supply chain through the expansion of existing facilities and the establishment of new manufacturing sites in Germany and Italy.
The involvement of financial powerhouses like BNP Paribas SA and Bpifrance highlights the strategic importance of ACC’s initiatives in the EV domain.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Mobility
Stellantis’ adoption of Tesla’s NACS charging standard and its active participation in the IONNA EV charging network underscore a broader industry trend towards collaboration and standardization in EV infrastructure. As automakers unite under a common goal, the future of electric mobility looks increasingly interconnected, accessible, and sustainable.
With these developments, Stellantis not only reaffirms its commitment to innovation but also plays a crucial role in shaping the global transition to electric vehicles.
