GM is latest to join the race to streamline EV charging

General Motors said Wednesday it will join a growing list of automakers focused on streamlining the EV charging process by equipping its models with "Plug and Charge" capability — aka the ability to easily plug in and automate payment at a range of different charging stations.

Though Plug and Charge technology has been available since 2014, the industry has been slow to agree on standards to authenticate payment, as well as the hardware and software required. That has allowed Tesla for the better part of a decade to stand out for its no-fuss charging network that allows drivers to drive up, plug in and charge.

For drivers of other brands, the process has been messier, requiring the driver to contend with a mélange of apps and accounts, RFID readers and non-functional credit card readers before they can begin charging. Sometimes the hardware is incompatible, calling for dongles and plug adapters to connect the cable to the car.

It’s not unusual to find multiple chargers from multiple suppliers in one parking lot. But growing competition among automakers means that a smooth, functional charging experience has become more of a priority.

Plug and Charge simplifies the process by allowing drivers to pay at a charging station using their account for a different charging network. The driver just pulls up to the machine and begins charging, similar to the ease of filling up at a gas station.