Kia committed to European fast charging network with further investment in IONITY image

Kia committed to European fast charging network with further investment in IONITY

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Kia committed to European fast charging network with further investment in IONITY
 

  • Kia joins other industry leaders to raise an additional €700 million in IONITY, Europe’s leading ultra-fast charging network
  • Number of ultra-fast 350kW charging points across Europe to rise from 1,500 to 7,000 by 2025
  • IONITY charging locations set to increase to over 1,000 resulting in shorter charging and waiting times
  • Kia to offer 11 new EVs globally by 2026; landmark EV6 crossover first of seven based on dedicated E-GMP architecture
     

Kia has made a further major investment in IONITY, Europe’s leading ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging network. As a major shareholder, Kia has teamed up with IONITY’s other investors to raise a further €700 million aimed at expanding its network of high-power charging points across the continent.

IONITY operates more than 1,500 charging points along European motorways in 24 countries. This additional investment will increase the number of ultra-fast charging points across Europe to 7,000 by 2025. Not only will these chargers be placed at more key locations along the European motorway network, they will also be installed along important trunk roads and near major cities. This expansion will make it even easier for customers to locate ultra-fast chargers that are capable of charging vehicles like the Kia EV6 electric crossover from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes.

IONITY will also use the investment to expand its number of charging locations across Europe from 400 today to over 1,000 by 2025, with each location featuring on average between eight and twelve ultra-fast 350kW charging points. Existing sites along routes with high traffic levels and increased demand for charging will also be upgraded with additional charging points. These measures will significantly shorten charging and waiting times for customers at the busiest of locations.

As part of the network expansion, IONITY will look to acquire more of its own properties, and depending on the location, build and operate its own service stations. The company recently unveiled ‘Oasis’; a concept designed to show what the charging experience of the future could look like. The model featured charging stations that are covered from the weather elements and charging parks located alongside cafés, restaurants, and shops for added convenience and a better charging experience.

The IONITY network uses the leading European charging standard Combined Charging System (CCS) and is sourced by 100% renewable energy. This means Kia drivers can use the IONITY charging network to travel emission-free and be carbon-neutral.

Jason Jeong, President at Kia Europe, commented: “As we look towards the phasing out of new IC engine vehicles over the next ten years, it’s essential drivers have access to an expansive and reliable fast-charging infrastructure. Our further investment in IONITY will see a significant expansion of ultra-fast chargers across Europe that will support our vehicles' high voltage capabilities. As a result, more drivers than ever will be able to charge their vehicles quickly and easily for a seamless EV experience.”

Kia plans to offer 11 new EVs globally by 2026, including seven dedicated BEV models. The EV6 crossover launched earlier this year is Kia’s first dedicated BEV produced using the brand’s all-new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Its advanced 800V architecture enables a range of 100 kilometres in less than four and a half minutes via a 350kW charger, with up to 528 kilometres (328 miles) possible on a full charge.