IONNA, the nationwide EV charging network backed by General Motors and seven other automakers, has officially launched its first Rechargery in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina. The Apex, NC location marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to provide convenient, high-powered charging options for electric vehicle owners.
The Apex Rechargery features 10 charging bays equipped with both NACS and CCS charging standards, offering up to 400 kW of fast-charging capacity per bay. This development aims to transform the EV charging experience by providing drivers with modern amenities and reliability.
“For EV drivers used to nondescript fast chargers in the back of a grocery store parking lot, this IONNA Rechargery is going to provide a dramatically improved experience, responding to clear consumer feedback about what they want,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Commercial Growth Strategies and Operations. “The connection between those of us developing EVs and a company building out charging helps ensure an easy, reliable experience.”
A New Standard for EV Charging
GM Energy Vice President Wade Sheffer was on-site for the launch, charging up a Cadillac LYRIQ at the new facility. The Apex location not only provides high-speed charging but also includes a lounge with snacks, restrooms, complimentary WiFi, and a pet-friendly atmosphere. The launch marks the next phase in IONNA’s expansion, transitioning from public beta to a nationwide rollout.
“Part of GM Energy’s mission is taking customer needs and applying our expertise to help make EV ownership easier and more accessible to all,” said Sheffer. “The work we’re doing with IONNA addresses three key factors: more public charging bays, more reliability, and more amenities. It’s great to see the vision come to life here in Apex.”
Nationwide Expansion Plans
The Apex IONNA Rechargery is just the beginning. With 100 sites already secured across the country, IONNA aims to have 1,000 live charging bays by the end of the year, expanding north into Canada in the near future. IONNA is committed to revolutionizing EV charging infrastructure by making charging stops more than just a necessity but an enjoyable experience.
Further innovation is on the horizon, as IONNA prepares to introduce AI-powered automated grab-and-go refreshment stations. This technology will allow customers to pick their snacks and walk out without checkout lines. Additionally, a seamless plug-and-charge experience is coming soon for GM vehicles at IONNA stations, ensuring effortless charging sessions.
“This is more than just putting chargers in the ground,” said IONNA CEO Seth Cutler. “We are building an experience, putting drivers’ interests at the forefront of every decision. Along with our founding OEM partners, we will redefine what reliable charging looks like in North America and give drivers a true choice, from the showroom to the steering wheel.”
As IONNA continues to expand its footprint, EV drivers across North America can look forward to a more convenient, reliable, and high-tech charging experience designed with their needs in mind.
