Hyundai Motor India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Charge Zone to enhance its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the country. Under the agreement, Charge Zone will install DC fast chargers at 100 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
The DC fast chargers, offering up to 60 kW, will be accessible to all EV brands. Users will need the ‘myHyundai’ or ‘Charge Zone: EV Charging India’ apps, available on the App Store and Google Play, to utilize the chargers.
Currently, Hyundai operates 34 EV fast-charging stations in India, with a peak output of up to 180 kW. The automaker has 60 kW DC public chargers at 19 dealerships and manages 15 additional fast-charging stations across major cities and highways in nine states.
“As India aims for greater adoption of electric mobility, it is equally important to bolster the EV charging infrastructure to counter range anxiety and build customer preference towards the adoption of electric mobility,” said Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head – Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor India.
“Over the past five years, Charge Zone has developed a renewable energy-powered EV charging network for electric cars and electric buses in India,” said Kartikey Hariyani, Founder & CEO, Charge Zone. “Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor India Limited aims to enhance infrastructure for 4-Wheeler Electric Vehicles (BEVs), ensuring easy access and dynamic availability, providing a reliable and seamless charging experience.”
Hyundai, which has not been a major player in the EV market in India, currently offers the Kona Electric and the Ioniq 5, both of which are imported and expensive for the average consumer. The company plans to launch the Creta EV, its first locally manufactured high-volume electric car, in January 2025. This model will be showcased at more showrooms compared to the Kona Electric and Ioniq 5, particularly in major cities. Additionally, Hyundai is set to introduce a more affordable micro-SUV, codenamed HE1i, a year later.
This collaboration marks the second partnership between Hyundai and Charge Zone. In 2023, Charge Zone was contracted to install 10 fast charging stations, each equipped with one 150 kW DC charger and one 60 kW DC charger.