Stellantis Announces SAE J3400 Connector Adoption in U.S.

In a groundbreaking move towards open standards and enhanced customer convenience, Stellantis has officially embraced the upcoming SAE J3400 charging connector. This adoption is set to debut with select battery-electric vehicle (BEV) models slated for release in North America during the 2026 model year. The announcement, made by Ricardo Stamatti, Stellantis Senior Vice President of Global Energy & Charging, marks a significant stride towards creating a seamless and open charging ecosystem for electric vehicles.

Stamatti emphasized the customer-centric approach, stating, “Customers win when the industry aligns on open standards. We are happy to announce our backing and adoption of the SAE J3400 connector, a milestone for all customers on the path to open and seamless charging.” This move aligns seamlessly with Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, which places customers at the core of the company’s commitment to open interoperability and freedom of mobility.

An integral part of Stellantis’ strategy is the IONNA public charging joint venture, announced in June 2023. In collaboration with six other major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Stellantis is set to establish an industry-leading high-powered charging network. This network aims to deploy at least 30,000 charge points in both urban and highway locations across North America by 2030.

The IONNA charging network distinguishes itself by prioritizing an enhanced customer experience. By utilizing renewable energy sources, the network ensures reliability, high-powered charging capability, digital integration, appealing locations, and various amenities during the charging process. This comprehensive approach is designed to not only meet but exceed the expectations of BEV customers.

Furthermore, the charging stations within the IONNA network will be accessible to all BEV customers, offering compatibility with both the Combined Charging System and the newly adopted SAE J3400 connectors. This commitment to compatibility reflects Stellantis’ dedication to providing a versatile and inclusive charging infrastructure for electric vehicle users, regardless of the brand.

The timeline for the implementation of the IONNA charging network is ambitious, with the first stations expected to open in 2024. This rapid deployment underscores Stellantis’ commitment to accelerating the transition to electric mobility by addressing one of the key challenges – the availability of a robust and accessible charging infrastructure.

By embracing the SAE J3400 connector as the chosen standard, Stellantis is not only contributing to the establishment of a universal charging protocol but also facilitating a smoother and more convenient experience for electric vehicle owners. The standardization of charging connectors across different manufacturers promotes interoperability, eliminating compatibility concerns and streamlining the charging process for consumers.

Stellantis’ visionary approach to electric vehicle charging extends beyond the individual company’s interests. The collaboration with six other OEMs in the IONNA joint venture demonstrates a collective commitment to the future of electric mobility. The industry-wide adoption of open standards like the SAE J3400 connector sets a precedent for cooperation and innovation, benefiting consumers, manufacturers, and the environment alike.

As Stellantis paves the way for a new era in electric vehicle charging, the impact is poised to be transformative. The combination of a standardized connector and a robust, customer-centric charging network positions Stellantis as a frontrunner in shaping the future of electric mobility. The Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, coupled with the IONNA joint venture, underscores Stellantis’ dedication to providing not just vehicles but an entire ecosystem that supports the evolving needs and expectations of electric vehicle users.

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