Stellantis, the automotive giant behind brands such as Jeep and Chrysler, is set to integrate the North American Charging Standard (NACS) into its electric vehicle (EV) offerings. This strategic decision will enable Stellantis EV owners to utilize Tesla's widespread Supercharger network, marking a significant advancement in charging infrastructure accessibility for their customers. The initial phase of this integration will focus on North America, with a planned launch in 2026, followed by an expansion into Asian markets.
Specifically, the Jeep Wagoneer EV and Dodge Charger Daytona models are slated to gain NACS compatibility in North America by 2026. Following this, the 2026 Jeep Recon and subsequent Stellantis EV models will also support NACS. By 2027, the network's reach is projected to extend to Japan and South Korea, providing access to over 28,000 Tesla Superchargers across five countries. This move underscores Stellantis' commitment to enhancing the EV ownership experience by providing more convenient and ubiquitous charging solutions.
This announcement comes amidst other key developments for Stellantis, including a recent recall of over 320,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler 4xe hybrid vehicles due to potential battery fire risks. Despite these challenges, the company remains focused on its future growth, with CEO Antonio Filosa emphasizing a $13 billion investment in the U.S. market to boost production by 50% and mitigate tariff impacts. Additionally, Stellantis is forging ahead with technological innovation, having partnered with Pony AI Inc. to develop Level 4 autonomous electric vans, with initial testing commencing in Luxembourg this year and a broader European rollout anticipated in 2026.
The collaboration between traditional automakers and EV charging infrastructure leaders like Tesla is a testament to the industry's collective drive towards a more sustainable and electrified future. By expanding charging access, companies are not only addressing a critical concern for potential EV buyers but also contributing to the broader adoption of electric vehicles, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient transportation ecosystem for everyone.