EV Power Pulse Issue #15

Current EVents

EV Industry Updates

The IONNA charging network begins operations in the US

IONNA, a joint venture of seven leading automakers, has secured regulatory approval to commence operations in the US. Seth Cutler, appointed as the Chief Executive Officer, is spearheading this initiative, bringing a wealth of experience from his tenure at EV Connect and Electrify America.

The collaborative effort includes automotive giants such as BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis. IONNA plans to deploy a robust network of at least 30,000 EV chargers across North America. The first charging stations are anticipated to open in the United States as early as 2024, followed by expansion into Canada. 

IONNA hopes to build a network that redefines the customer experience for EV drivers. The charging network will be accessible to all electric vehicles with NACS and CCS connectors and offer amenities such as restrooms, food service, and retail operations. Also, the charging stations are designed to be powered by renewable energy, aligning with the sustainability strategies of the participating automakers.

Leveraging IONNA's network, the integration of digital services will deliver a smooth and intuitive experience for drivers as they interact with the in-vehicle and in-app features provided by participating automakers. Covering everything from reservations to intelligent route planning, navigation, payment processing, and transparent energy management, this network aims to elevate the overall EV charging experience for drivers.

IONNA's strategic positioning and commitment to innovation mark a significant step forward in the EV charging industry. With the backing of seven major automakers, they possess the capability to challenge Tesla’s charging supremacy in the US market. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see the IONNA network become a prominent acquirer over the next few years of some of the struggling charging networks. 

–Steve

Automotive Charging Solutions (ACS) is a strategic, value-added partner that can manage every aspect of the EV charging installation and maintenance process to ensure it becomes a successful and profitable part of your business.

Power and Policy

States investing in EV infrastructure beyond NEVI funds

We've discussed several states' plans to use NEVI funds to build EV charging infrastructure, but two states (Washington and Massachusetts) recently announced significant funding of their own. Seeing as the NEVI funds focus more on lining highways with charging stations, it was only a matter of time before states sought to expand infrastructure in more densely populated areas.

Washington state, under Governor Jay Inslee and the Department of Commerce, unveiled a plan featuring $85M in grants. This funding consists of $65M from state general funds and an additional $21M from the sale of greenhouse gas emission allowances and is geared towards accelerating the deployment of thousands of EV chargers throughout the state. 

The initiative prioritizes diverse locations, including 213 multifamily properties, 211 local government and school district fleets, and 141 public spaces like community centers and libraries. Notably, the grants underscore a commitment to environmental justice, directing funding to areas with high pollution levels and limited existing charging infrastructure.

Massachusetts also announced a substantial $50M investment into EV charging infrastructure, utilizing funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Governor Maura Healey's initiative allocates $12M to curbside chargers in urban communities, $9M for heavy-duty charging stations, and $8M for electrifying ride-share and taxi services. 

The investment also covers critical areas such as vehicle-to-everything (V2X) analysis, EV charging at priority state facilities, and a comprehensive charging needs analysis, emphasizing a holistic and forward-looking approach.

Both Washington and Massachusetts are united in their aim to promote broad access to EV charging, reduce carbon emissions, and combat climate change. These state-driven initiatives mark a transition towards proactive investment strategies, expanding beyond NEVI initiatives to seize control of their clean energy future.

–Rob 

Emerging EV Charging Tech

Researchers achieve Li-ion battery charging breakthrough

Researchers at Chung-Ang University in South Korea recently achieved a breakthrough in lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery charging times and safety. Their groundbreaking study, featured in the journal Energy Storage Materials, represents a significant step forward in tackling the fundamental challenges encountered by existing Li-ion batteries, particularly within the realm of electric vehicles.

The primary obstacle lies in the delicate balance between achieving rapid charging capabilities without sacrificing the battery's energy density—essential for sustaining the vehicle's range—while also upholding safety standards. Lithium plating poses a significant challenge in which, under specific conditions, metallic lithium accumulates on the battery's electrodes, potentially resulting in performance degradation and safety hazards

The research team adopted a unique approach to overcome these challenges, concentrating on enhancing the battery’s electrolyte composition. Through the use of concentrated LiPF6, a Li-ion battery electrolyte, alongside linear carbonates, the team sought to help the battery charge quickly by making sure charged particles (ions) move smoothly into a specific part of the battery called the graphite anode. Additionally, they used dimethyl carbonate due to its low energy requirement to initiate the charging process, thereby accelerating the overall battery charging rate. 

The results of their efforts are promising. The modified electrolytes demonstrated a significant improvement in fast-charging capabilities while simultaneously maintaining the stability of the battery. Lead researcher and associate professor Janghyuk Moon is optimistic regarding the broader implications of these advancements. 

Moon envisions a more practical electric vehicle landscape with reduced charging times and extended vehicle range, ultimately fostering wider adoption of EVs. He states, "By improving the kinetics and stability of batteries under fast charging conditions, we hope to make a meaningful impact on the EV industry and, ultimately, on people’s daily lives." 

If this breakthrough proves to be effective and scalable, it could represent a substantial advancement for the EV industry. Faster charging would be immensely beneficial for both drivers and station owners alike.

–Steve and Rob

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Until next time, stay charged!
- Steve and Rob