Hyundai collaborates with Shell to grow the fast-charging network in India
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL) has partnered with Shell to install fast chargers at 36 of its dealerships in India. If feasible, Shell India may install 120 kW fast chargers instead of the 60 kW stations currently specified in the agreement.
The agreement was signed at HMIL’s headquarters in Gurugram, Haryana, by the car manufacturer and the oil corporation. The strategic partnership aims to accelerate the expansion of BEV charging infrastructure in India in line with Hyundai’s existing growth plans.
Hyundai Motor India currently has 72 dealerships in 45 cities. The collaboration with Shell India is Phase 2 of their EV charging infrastructure plan, focusing on installing DC 60/120 kW fast chargers in 36 dealerships, covering half of their outlets.
Hyundai previously announced in February that ten ultra-rapid charging stations would be installed across key highways and cities in India by mid-year. One 150 kW DC charger and one 60 kW fast charger will be available at each fast charging location.
The expansion of charging infrastructure coincides with the launch of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 in India, which features quick charging capabilities. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, high-power charging stations can charge the vehicle from 10% to 80% in about 21 minutes.
HMIL has developed its Charger Management System (CMS) to facilitate EV charging, providing EV drivers with open access. The collaboration with Shell India will integrate Shell’s network, as well as chargers from HMIL and third-party operators, into Hyundai’s CMS.
According to Hyundai, the CMS includes advanced features such as location, navigation, and digital payment, making it a standout initiative in India’s EV charging landscape.
This month, the Korean automaker also announced plans to expand its manufacturing base in India. Hyundai plans to invest 200 billion rupees ($2.45 billion) in Tamil Nadu over the next ten years, increasing capacity at its factory near Chennai from 775,000 to 850,000 vehicles per year.
In addition, Hyundai Motor India will set up a battery pack assembly with a capacity of 178,000 units per year and install 100 EV charging stations across the southern state over the next five years.
The investment plan follows the recent announcement by India’s federal government to raise taxes on imported vehicles in order to encourage domestic manufacturing. Hyundai intends to launch five new EV models in the world’s third-largest car market, with the goal of capturing a 20% market share by 2032.
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