GM and ChargePoint Forge Partnership to Enhance EV Charging Infrastructure in the U.S.
General Motors (GM) and ChargePoint have unveiled a significant joint venture aimed at deploying "up to" 500 new direct current (DC) fast-charging stations across the United States by the close of 2025. Although specific locations for these upcoming chargers have yet to be disclosed, GM has indicated that they will be strategically placed in various key regions throughout the country. The chargers, adorned with GM Energy branding, are expected to be fully operational—rather than merely installed—within the next year.
Encouraging Broader Charging Access
In conjunction with this initiative, GM plans to introduce an incentive program designed to facilitate third-party charge point operators (CPOs) in establishing and managing their own charging stations. A notable feature of many of the new installations will be ChargePoint’s Omni Port technology, which boasts the capability to charge vehicles equipped with either CCS or NACS ports at impressive speeds of up to 500kW, eliminating the need for adapters.
Rick Wilmer, CEO of ChargePoint, stated, “Our collaboration with GM represents a significant investment in the infrastructure to enable fast and easy charging for all. Together, ChargePoint and GM will deliver a seamless fast-charging experience via reliable charging hardware managed by our industry-leading software platform.”
Advancing Electrification Progress
This latest initiative underscores GM’s ongoing commitment to electrification, which gained momentum in 2022 when the company entered into a partnership with eVgo to support a nationwide fast-charging initiative. This collaboration has already resulted in the installation of 350kW fast chargers at Truck Stops such as Pilot and Flying J, with over 2,000 units now operational.
Despite its status as the largest EV charging network in the U.S., ChargePoint continues to play catch-up with Tesla. Currently, Tesla boasts over 23,000 DC charging ports nationwide, while ChargePoint trails with just under 3,000, followed closely by Electrify America with approximately 4,000 DC ports.
Shifting Strategies Amid a Transition to Electrification
This partnership appears to be a strategic maneuver for GM as it navigates the complexities of an electrified automotive landscape. Recently, the firm announced the sale of its stake in a Michigan battery manufacturing facility to LG, though it will persist in collaborating on the production of prismatic battery cells for future GM electric vehicles. By establishing a branded charging network, GM is positioning itself as not merely an automaker but increasingly as a pivotal player in the utility landscape underpinning America’s transition to electric mobility.
As GM advances its electrification initiatives, the development of a comprehensive charging network could redefine its role in reshaping the future of transportation.
Source:www.autoblog.com
