Stellantis to adopt SAE J3400 connector for North American BEVs

Stellantis has announced plans to adopt the proposed SAE J3400 charging connector for its battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in North America, starting with select models in the 2026 model year. This decision is intended to improve electric vehicle charging options and aligns with the company’s strategy to provide open and seamless charging solutions for its customers. The adoption of the J3400 connector represents a significant step towards standardizing charging infrastructure and enhancing the user experience for electric vehicle owners.

To facilitate a smooth transition for vehicles currently equipped with Combined Charging System (CCS) ports, Stellantis will offer adapters that enable these vehicles to use the new J3400 charging network. This solution aims to accommodate the evolving J3400/1 standards, which are still under development.

This move is part of Stellantis’s broader strategy to expand charging options as outlined in its Dare Forward 2030 initiative, which includes a goal to achieve carbon net-zero status by 2038. As part of this strategy, Stellantis is involved in the IONNA charging network joint venture, along with six other major automakers. The joint venture plans to install at least 30,000 high-powered charging points across urban and highway locations in North America by 2030. The IONNA network will prioritize renewable energy and high-powered charging capabilities, with the first charging stations expected to begin operations in 2024.

Ricardo Stamatti, Stellantis’s Senior Vice President of Global Energy & Charging, highlighted the advantages of industry alignment on open standards. He noted that the J3400 connector is expected to enhance interoperability and mobility freedom. The joint venture’s charging stations will support both CCS and J3400 connectors, improving the charging experience with digital integration, accessible locations, and various amenities.