The Hyundai Motor Group has become a new shareholder in the Ionity pan-European ultra-rapid EV charging network. The latest addition to the joint venture sees both Hyundai and Kia brands represented.
The Korean group joins the BMW Group, Ford Motor Company, Daimler AG and the Volkswagen Group as shareholders, as the network continues its roll-out along the major routes across Europe.
Hyundai and Kia have some of the market’s best EVs on sale, with long-driving ranges easily possible. Real world ranges for models like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia e-Niro, and forthcoming Kia Soul EV are between 250 and 300 miles on a charge, and all use the CCS charging standard that is found on Ionity charge points.
These units can charge at up to 350 kW – though no vehicle on sale currently can accept such a charge. Instead, a number of the newest EVs can take a charge at between 100 kW and 150 kW.
Ionity CEO Michael Hajesch said: “Hyundai Motor Group brings significant international experience and know-how with a full strategic commitment to e-mobility. The participation of new investors in Ionity is a clear signal of trust indicating that the work of our young company is already bearing fruit.”
Launched by motor manufacturers, the Ionity joint venture always said that it was open to new groups coming in to the network to aid in expansion. The Hyundai Motor Group is the first newcomer to join the network.
