United States: American Honda Motor Co.,
Inc. has made significant strides in expanding its electric vehicle (EV)
charging network with agreements announced with EVgo and Electrify America.
These agreements, in addition to their previous commitment to adopt the NACS
charging standard, solidify Honda and Acura's position in providing their EV
customers with access to an extensive charging infrastructure.
Through these agreements, Honda and Acura EV owners will gain
access to some of North America's largest charging networks, bolstering their
convenience and range assurance. These networks include the Tesla Supercharger
network, EVgo, Electrify America, and various roaming partner networks. This
comprehensive approach aims to offer Honda and Acura EV drivers a hassle-free
and convenient charging experience, even when traveling away from home.
Honda's ambitious goal is to provide its customers with the most
extensive fast-charging options among automakers. They have taken significant
steps to achieve this objective, including forming a joint venture with other
major automakers to establish a robust high-powered charging network. By 2024,
U.S. Honda and Acura EV customers can expect to access most public American DC
fast chargers, with a projected 100,000 DC charge points available to them by
2030.
The agreements with EVgo and Electrify America will enable Honda
and Acura EV owners to access thousands of fast chargers across the United
States through a single app. This app integration allows customers to find
available charging stations, make payments, redeem credits, subscribe to plans,
and utilize other features seamlessly. Additionally, customers purchasing or
leasing a new Honda or Acura EV can choose from three charging packages
included in the vehicle's MSRP. These packages offer various combinations of
public charging credits, charging equipment, and installation credits to suit
different lifestyles and preferences.
Furthermore, Honda is offering charging credits with EVgo and
its roaming partners, enhancing convenience for EV owners. These credits range
from USD100 to USD750, catering to a wide range of charging needs and
preferences. As part of the package, Electrify America will also provide 60kWh
of complimentary public charging to first-time Honda and Acura EV owners,
making Honda the first automaker to offer credits across multiple charging
networks in the United States.
These developments signify Honda's commitment to making EV
ownership more accessible and convenient for its customers. Full details of
these offerings will be available closer to the launch of the all-new Honda
Prologue and Acura ZDX in early 2024, ushering in a new era of electric
mobility for the brand.
Commenting on the recent development, TechSci Research Director
Mr. Karan Chechi said, "The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in North
America is growing rapidly, paralleled by the expansion of charging
infrastructure. This surge in popularity can be attributed to increasing
environmental awareness and the desire for sustainable transportation. Advances
in battery technology have also extended EV range, reducing concerns about
limited mileage. Additionally, substantial investments from both public and
private sectors are enhancing charging networks, greatly improving convenience
for EV owners. This combined effort is driving the widespread adoption of EVs
in North America."