IONITY is a leading company in the field of electromobility, specializing in the development of a high-performance fast-charging network for electric vehicles across Europe. Founded in 2017 as a joint venture by major automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, IONITY aims to make long-distance travel with electric cars as comfortable and efficient as possible.
With state-of-the-art charging technology, the company offers ultra-fast charging with a power output of up to 350 kW, allowing compatible vehicles to gain significant range within minutes. The dense network of charging stations along major highways and transport routes plays a crucial role in increasing the acceptance and everyday usability of e-mobility. IONITY relies on 100% renewable energy, actively supporting a sustainable transition in transportation.
We were invited to the „FAT ICE RACE in Zell am See-Kaprun“ and had the opportunity to meet IONITY CEO Jeroen van Tilburg on-site.
Exclusive Interview with CEO Jeroen van Tilburg from IONITY
Andreas Conrad: Mr van Tilburg, IONITY is primarily known for high-power charging on motorways. What made you decide to be a partner at the F.A.T. Ice Race in Zell am See?
Andreas Conrad: The Ice Race stands for tradition and innovation in motorsport. How does IONITY’s vision fit into this concept?
Jeroen van Tilburg: Both the race and our vision emphasize unwavering dedication to high performance, while also seeking out smarter, more sustainable ways to move forward. At IONITY, that means building a charging network that ensures EV drivers can confidently travel across Europe, relying on a fast, reliable infrastructure that turns charging stops into enjoyable downtime. In other words, we believe in honoring venerable automotive traditions while pioneering the innovations that will define the future of mobility—and the F.A.T. Ice Race is a perfect example of this intersection.
Andreas Conrad: Electromobility and racing – still a contradiction for many. What opportunities do you see for more and more electric vehicles to take part in such events?
Andreas Conrad: With up to 400 kW charging power, IONITY offers Europe’s leading ultra-fast charging network. What role does a reliable charging infrastructure play in the success of electromobility – including in motorsport?
Jeroen van Tilburg: A reliable, high-performance charging infrastructure is essential for the wider adoption of electric mobility. From IONITY’s perspective, it’s clear that the transition to electric vehicles in all scenarios, be it on motorways or the racetrack, can only be successful if drivers know they can charge their cars quickly and without interruption, whenever and wherever they need to. That’s why we’re investing so heavily into expanding our pan-European network, with the aim of having our charging stations no more than 150 kilometers apart on major motorways.
Andreas Conrad: Many major car manufacturers present their latest electric vehicles here. To what extent is the F.A.T. Ice Race a platform for IONITY to position itself as a leading provider of high-power charging?
Andreas Conrad: The conditions here in Zell am See are extreme – cold, snow, ice. How do such factors affect the charging performance of electric vehicles, and what does IONITY do to ensure optimal charging conditions even in such environments?
Andreas Conrad: If you take a look into the future: Do you think we will see an all-electric F.A.T. Ice Race in a few years‘ time? And what role could IONITY play in this?
Fore more information:
IONITY GmbH
Moosacher Straße 84
80809 München
Deutschland
Editor’s Note: The statements, assessments, and opinions expressed in this interview reflect solely the personal views of the interviewee. The editorial team does not adopt these statements as its own; responsibility for their substantive accuracy and legal assessment rests exclusively with the interview.
