Ionna is a joint EV charging network built by Ford, GM, and Stellantis

Ionna is a charging network created by three major automakers—Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis (which owns Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, and Peugeot)—to build fast-charging stations across North America. The network launched in 2024 with the goal of installing thousands of DC fast chargers, particularly along highways and in urban areas. Unlike some charging networks that are open to all vehicles, Ionna stations will prioritize owners of Ford, GM, and Stellantis vehicles, though the companies have stated that other EV owners may be able to use the network as well.

The main purpose of Ionna is to address a real gap in EV charging infrastructure: the lack of reliable, fast-charging options for long-distance driving. If you own a Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Blazer EV, or Jeep Wagoneer 4xe, Ionna stations are being built specifically with your vehicle's charging needs in mind. The network is separate from existing networks like Tesla's Supercharger network (which is opening to other brands) and Electrify America.

Key Takeaways

  • Ionna is a DC fast-charging network owned jointly by Ford, GM, and Stellantis, designed primarily for their vehicles but potentially open to other EV owners.
  • The network focuses on highway corridors and urban areas where long-distance travel and frequent charging are most needed.
  • Ionna stations use standard charging connectors, so compatibility depends on your vehicle's port type and the network's connector availability.
  • Pricing and membership details are still being finalized, but the network is expected to offer subscription and pay-per-use options similar to other DC fast-charging networks.
  • Ionna is separate from your vehicle's built-in charging capabilities and from home charging—it is designed for road trips and situations where you need a full charge in 20 to 45 minutes.

Where Ionna stations are being built

Ionna's rollout began in 2024 with stations concentrated along major highway corridors in the United States and Canada. The network is prioritizing routes that connect major cities and regions where EV owners are most likely to need fast charging during long drives. Early stations have been announced in areas like the Midwest, Northeast, and California, with plans to expand to other regions over the coming years.

The exact locations of future stations have not been fully published, but Ford, GM, and Stellantis have stated that Ionna will focus on places where existing charging networks have gaps. You can check the Ionna website or the charging apps from your vehicle's manufacturer to see which stations are currently operational or under construction near your area. The network is expected to grow significantly through 2025 and beyond, but the timeline for full coverage across North America is still being determined.

How Ionna charging works with your vehicle

Ionna stations deliver DC fast charging, which means they can add 200 to 300 miles of range to many EVs in 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and the charger's power output. To use an Ionna station, you will need a compatible vehicle and a way to pay or a membership account. If you own a Ford, GM, or Stellantis EV, your vehicle's infotainment system will likely have built-in navigation to Ionna stations, and you may be able to reserve or start a charging session directly from the vehicle's touchscreen or mobile app.

The actual charging process is straightforward: you drive to a station, plug in your vehicle using the appropriate connector (typically a NACS connector, which is becoming the North American standard), and the charger communicates with your vehicle to deliver the right amount of power. Your vehicle's onboard charger manages the charging speed and stops when the battery is full or when you reach your target charge level. You pay through the app, a membership plan, or a credit card at the station, depending on how Ionna's pricing structure is set up at that location.

Connector types and vehicle compatibility

Ionna stations are being built with the NACS connector (North American Charging Standard), which is the plug type that Ford, GM, and Tesla have adopted as the industry standard. If your vehicle has a NACS port built in, you can plug directly into an Ionna charger. If your vehicle has an older connector type—such as CCS (Combined Charging System)—you will need an adapter to use Ionna stations.

Most Ford and GM EVs built from 2024 onward come with NACS ports. Older models may have CCS ports, and some Stellantis vehicles may still be transitioning to NACS. Before planning a road trip that relies on Ionna charging, check your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm your port type. If you have a CCS port, you can still use Ionna stations with an adapter, but adapters add time to the charging process and may not be available at every location.

Pricing and membership options

Ionna's exact pricing structure has not been fully announced, but the network is expected to offer both pay-per-use and membership subscription options, similar to other DC fast-charging networks. Pay-per-use typically costs between $0.25 and $0.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), though prices vary by location and time of day. Membership plans may offer discounted rates or a flat monthly fee in exchange for a commitment to use the network regularly.

Because Ionna is jointly owned by three automakers, owners of Ford, GM, and Stellantis vehicles may receive preferential pricing or bundled membership options through their vehicle purchase or financing agreement. Check with your dealership or your vehicle's mobile app to see if any charging credits or discounts are included with your purchase. Pricing and membership details are still being finalized, so rates and options may change as the network expands.

How Ionna differs from other charging networks

Ionna is not the only DC fast-charging network available to EV owners. Tesla's Supercharger network is the largest in North America, and it is now opening to non-Tesla vehicles through adapters or native NACS ports. Electrify America, EVgo, and Volta are other major networks with varying coverage and pricing. The key difference with Ionna is that it is built and owned by three automakers specifically to serve their own vehicles first, whereas other networks are independent companies that serve all EV brands.

This means Ionna stations may have better integration with Ford, GM, and Stellantis vehicles—for example, your vehicle's navigation system may prioritize Ionna stations, or you may be able to reserve a charger before you arrive. However, it also means Ionna's coverage may be more limited initially, and you will still need access to other networks for road trips outside Ionna's service areas. Most EV owners use multiple charging networks, so Ionna is best thought of as one tool in your charging toolkit rather than a replacement for other options.

Planning road trips with Ionna charging

If you own a compatible Ford, GM, or Stellantis EV, you can use Ionna stations as part of your road trip planning, but you should not rely on them exclusively until the network is more fully built out. Before a long drive, check the Ionna app or your vehicle's navigation to see which stations are available along your route. Plan your stops to account for charging time—a typical DC fast-charging stop takes 30 to 45 minutes, during which you can eat, use the restroom, or work.

Have a backup plan for charging at other networks in case an Ionna station is full, out of service, or not yet built in your area. read the apps for Electrify America, EVgo, or Tesla Supercharger (if your vehicle is compatible) so you can find alternative chargers quickly. As Ionna expands, it will become more reliable for long-distance travel, but during the early years of the network, flexibility and knowledge of multiple networks will make your trips smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Ionna if I don't own a Ford, GM, or Stellantis vehicle?

The companies have stated that non-Ford, non-GM, and non-Stellantis EV owners may be able to use Ionna stations, but details about access, pricing, and priority have not been finalized. It is likely that owners of the three brands will have priority or better pricing. Check the Ionna website or contact the network directly for the most current information about access for other EV brands.

What if I have a CCS connector and not NACS?

You can use Ionna stations with a CCS-to-NACS adapter, which you can purchase from most EV accessory retailers. The adapter adds a few minutes to the charging setup process but does not affect charging speed. However, adapters may not be available at every station, so carry your own to be safe.

How long does it take to charge at an Ionna station?

Most DC fast-charging sessions take 20 to 45 minutes to add 200 to 300 miles of range, depending on your vehicle's battery size, the charger's power output, and how full you want the battery. Charging slows down as the battery approaches full capacity, so you may not need to wait for a complete charge on a road trip.

Is Ionna charging more expensive than home charging?

Yes, significantly. DC fast charging at public stations typically costs $0.25 to $0.50 per kWh, while home charging on a standard residential electricity rate costs $0.10 to $0.15 per kWh. Ionna is designed for road trips and situations where you need a fast charge, not for daily charging. For routine charging, home charging is much cheaper.

Will Ionna stations work with my vehicle's built-in navigation?

If you own a newer Ford, GM, or Stellantis EV, your vehicle's infotainment system will likely show Ionna stations in the navigation and charging apps. Older models may require you to use the Ionna app or a third-party app to find stations. Check your vehicle's manual or ask your dealership about navigation integration for your specific model.