IONNA, a new electric vehicle (EV) charging network backed by several major automakers, has begun its national expansion, with 100 sites under contract and 1,000-plus charging bays expected to go online this year, the company recently announced. The move is a major milestone for IONNA, which launche d its beta phase in February 2024 as a partnership between Kia, Hyundai, BMW Group, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, Stellantis and Honda. Toyota later joined the initiative. IONNA’s goal is to make charging faster and more convenient for EV owners across North America. One of the company’s biggest advantages is its high-power charging (HPC) capability. Each charging stall can deliver up to 400 kW, significantly reducing charging times for compatible vehicles. Late last year, the company stress-tested the network with the help of automaker vehicle fleets and everyday drivers, completing more than 4,400 charging sessions on over 80 unique vehicle models and dispensing nearly 63 thousand kilowatts of energy, the company said in a Feb. 4 news release. IONNA eventually plans to install 30,000 high-power charging points nationwide. In the news release, the company said it was immediately opening new charging stations — called “Rechargeries” — in Houston, Texas and Abilene, Kansas. Six additional locations are under construction, including in Willcox, Arizona. The Rechargeries are designed to offer a range of amenities, including restrooms, lounges, and food and beverage options. IONNA said that starting with its Garner, North Carolina location, it will introduce AI-powered computer vision and sensor-fusion technology to create retail spaces with automated grab-and-go offerings and no checkout lines. Learn more at IONNA.com. The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation. ...read more read less