In a step toward revolutionizing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, IONNA, a joint venture between eight of the world’s leading automakers, has broken ground on its first-ever charging site, coined the “Rechargery,” in Apex, North Carolina. Alongside this milestone, the company announced the appointment of Jackie Slope as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO), signaling a bold future for the company’s growth and customer experience initiatives.
Set in the historic district of Apex, the new Rechargery will provide a blend of modern amenities and efficient EV charging, transforming a century-old gas station into a hub for the future of electric mobility. Equipped with 10 parking bays, the site will offer ultra-fast charging with both CCS and NACS ports, providing up to 400kW of power and 800+ volts. This makes it compatible with a broad range of EVs, accommodating both local commuters and those passing through the Raleigh-Durham area, also known as the Triangle.
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Designed to offer more than just a place to plug in, IONNA’s Rechargery will also feature a driver’s lounge with Wi-Fi, food and beverage options, and clean, secure bathrooms. Pet-friendly outdoor spaces ensure all passengers are comfortable during charging stops. This marks a significant shift in how we think about refueling in an electric age—replacing the hurried, isolated pit stop with a more integrated, customer-focused experience.
Apex, known for its deep-rooted history as a railroad town, is an apt location for IONNA’s first Rechargery. The town itself gets its name from the highest point on a 19th-century steam-engine route, symbolizing growth and evolution. Fittingly, IONNA’s new facility continues this tradition of transportation innovation. The site is being built on the grounds of one of Apex’s earliest gas stations, nearly 100 years after it first opened to the public.
IONNA’s decision to restore this historical building aligns perfectly with the town’s motto, “The Peak of Good Living,” creating a seamless link between its heritage and a greener, more sustainable future.
In addition to breaking ground on the Rechargery, IONNA has made a strategic move by hiring Jackie Slope as its new CTO. With over 15 years of experience in customer-centric roles at high-profile venues like Crypto.com Arena and Madison Square Garden, Slope brings a wealth of knowledge in optimizing user experiences. At IONNA, she will oversee the deployment of the company’s charging hardware and software, aiming to create a frictionless and welcoming experience for EV drivers.
“I am excited to join the IONNA family,” said Slope. “Having spent my career raising the bar on customer experience, I’m thrilled to bring those same principles to the electric vehicle industry. Our goal is to make charging your EV as seamless and enjoyable as possible.”
IONNA’s new Rechargery in Apex is the first of many planned across the country, setting the stage for a nationwide network of convenient, fast-charging hubs. By combining state-of-the-art charging technology with customer-centered amenities, the company is poised to redefine what drivers expect from an EV charging station.
The introduction of Jackie Slope as CTO also suggests that IONNA will continue to prioritize innovation in the customer experience—an often overlooked yet critical aspect of the EV transition. With this unique blend of historical significance, cutting-edge technology, and thoughtful design, IONNA’s first Rechargery signals a bright future for both the company and the EV industry at large.
As the EV market rapidly grows, IONNA’s commitment to providing both practical and comfortable charging solutions is a refreshing step forward. With the Apex Rechargery set to be a blueprint for future sites, and leadership like Jackie Slope driving the customer-first approach, IONNA is shaping the next chapter in the electric vehicle revolution. Expect more groundbreakings soon, as this ambitious network takes off across the nation.
