LG Uplus to build EV charging stations in Wando County

LG UPlus's head of electric vehicle business Hyun Joon-yong, right, and Wando governor Shin Woo-cheol sign a memorandum of understanding in Wando, South Jeolla, on Tuesday. [LG UPLUS]

LG Uplus, a major mobile carrier, will build electric vehicle charging stations in Wando, South Jeolla, this year, as a part of its efforts to diversify its revenue stream beyond telecommunication services.

The company said on Wednesday that LG Uplus and Wando County signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday, with LG Uplus's head of electric vehicle business Hyun Joon-yong, Wando governor Shin Woo-cheol and 20 other executives and related officials in attendance.

The service on offer is called VoltUP, which lets customers use EV chargers manufactured by LG Electronics and LS Electric, and enables them to reserve and receive notifications once the charging is completed. Related 24/7 customer service is also part of the package.

The mobile carrier will also offer 10 percent discount on charging fees for its telecom users.

“This partnership will set the first precedent in which LG Uplus and Wando County collaborate to form a sustainable environment through EV chargers,” Hyun said. “LG Uplus will work toward expanding EV charging infrastructure nationwide.”

Shin said the MOU aims to “establish the infrastructure for Wando residents and visitors to use EV chargers without difficulties.”

BY LEE JAE-LIM [lee.jaelim@joongang.co.kr]