J.D. Power Study: Ionna Tops U.S. EV Charging Experience, Tesla Ranks Fourth

Study Overview

J.D. Power's latest American EV Public Charging Experience Study reveals shifting dynamics in the U.S. public charging landscape. Automaker-backed networks outperformed privately operated ones, with Ionna claiming the top spot despite its relatively small footprint.

Rankings

• Ionna: Backed by BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota, Ionna operates stations under the "Rechargery" brand. Despite ranking first, its network currently has no stations in Michigan and only one in New York. The company recently partnered with Circle K to install charging infrastructure at over 350 gas stations.
• Mercedes-Benz: The German automaker's charging network took second place, with limited stations concentrated in the southern U.S. and East Coast.
• Rivian Adventure Network: Third place, with plans to deploy over 3,500 fast chargers at more than 600 locations across the U.S. and Canada.
• Tesla Supercharger: Ranking fourth drew surprise, especially given Tesla's global network of over 80,000 charging points.
• Bottom four: Red E, Electrify America, EVgo and ChargePoint rounded out the list.

Consumer Satisfaction Improves

Overall scores rose 12 points to 666 out of 1,000, with all 10 measured indicators improving. The most notable gains were charger availability, up 27 points, and user safety at charging locations, up 18 points. Cost satisfaction also climbed 18 points. The industry-wide "visit rate for failed charging" dropped to 12%, a historical low, down from 14% in the previous quarter.

J.D. Power noted that newly launched automaker-supported networks carry the "lowest failure rates." However, satisfaction with slower Level 2 public chargers fell 12 points year-over-year, largely due to payment and convenience friction. DC fast chargers at dealerships and independent parking lots also drew dissatisfaction.

Market Implications

Brent Gruber, executive director of J.D. Power's EV solutions, stated that as the EV market matures, consistent public charging experience is becoming increasingly critical. He emphasized that charging experience remains the leading reason new-car buyers decline EVs, and that recent improvements should help accelerate infrastructure growth to meet projected demand in the coming years.