Hyundai, Kia Join European EV-Charging Network

Hyundai-Kia are joining Munich-based Ionity, a charging joint venture established by global automakers.

The South Korean automakers say they will play a key role in further enhancing the availability of charging stations for their European customers.

Starting in 2021, Kia and Hyundai battery-electric vehicles will be equipped with 800V charging systems to accommodate Ionity’s maximum power of 350 kW.

“Customers will be able to use Ionity’s high-power charging facilities, which are equipped with digital payment options, to significantly reduce charging times and better facilitate long-distance travel,” the automakers say.

Ionity was established in 2017 by BMW, Daimler, Ford, Volkswagen and VW’s Audi and Porsche brands. Hyundai will obtain shares in Ionity equal to those of the founding partners.

The JV operates almost 140 charging stations in Europe with 50 more under construction. Ionity plans to expand its network to 400 fast-charging stations by 2020, with an average of at least one site every 75 miles (120 km) along major European highways.

Hyundai Executive Vice President Thomas Schemera says Ionity’s European distribution and brand-agnostic approach will significantly improve the image and accessibility of BEVs for both current users and prospective buyers.

“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,” he says.

Schemera says the investment in Ionity underscores Hyundai-Kia’s continued efforts to become game-changers in a low-carbon-emissions society, which includes the deployment of 44 eco-friendly models by 2025.