EVgo, a leading operator of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in the United States, is set to significantly expand its direct current (DC) fast-charging network. The company announced plans to deploy over 500 new fast-charging stalls strategically located within shopping centers, leveraging a deepened partnership with Brixmor Property Group, a major commercial real estate developer.
Key Takeaways
- EVgo is adding more than 500 new DC fast-charging stalls across the U.S.
- The expansion focuses on shopping centers, making EV charging stations accessible where millions of Americans already visit.
- This initiative significantly extends EVgo’s existing partnership with Brixmor Property Group.
- New high-power 350 kW chargers will be installed at over 90 Brixmor properties, encompassing more than 25% of their portfolio.
- Deployment is slated to begin later this year across key states including Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
This initiative represents a substantial boost to the nation’s electric vehicle infrastructure, directly addressing the growing demand for convenient and accessible EV charging stations outside of residential settings. The strategy targets locations where consumers naturally experience dwell time, integrating charging seamlessly into daily routines.
Strategic Expansion at High-Traffic Retail Locations
EVgo’s latest expansion underscores a strategic focus on integrating electric vehicle charging into the fabric of everyday American life. By installing more than 500 new fast-charging stalls at high-traffic shopping centers, the company aims to alleviate range anxiety and enhance the overall experience for electric car owners.
The core of this expansion lies in an augmented partnership with Brixmor Property Group, one of the largest commercial real estate developers in the United States. This collaboration is designed to increase the availability of public EV charging stations within parking lots of various retail properties.
Upon completion of this ambitious rollout, at least 90 Brixmor shopping centers, which constitutes over 25% of the developer’s extensive portfolio, will feature state-of-the-art EVgo fast chargers. This widespread deployment will significantly improve charging accessibility for a vast consumer base.
Advanced Charging Technology and Widespread Reach
The newly installed EV charging stations will feature advanced 350-kilowatt (kW) stalls, capable of delivering ultra-fast charging speeds. This high power output ensures that electric vehicle drivers can quickly recharge their vehicles while they shop, dine, or run errands, minimizing their wait times and maximizing convenience.
Each new charging site is projected to house up to 12 EVgo chargers. Crucially, each individual charger is designed to deliver power to two electric vehicles simultaneously, effectively doubling the charging capacity at each location and reducing potential queues during peak hours. This scalable design caters to the anticipated growth in EV adoption.
The geographical reach of this expansion is considerable, targeting several populous states. New locations for these fast EV charging stations will be established in Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The phased deployment is slated to commence later this year, with the inaugural site expected to go live in Barn Plaza, a prominent retail hub situated in a Philadelphia suburb.
Enhancing Consumer Convenience and Supporting EV Adoption
The decision to primarily locate these new EV charging stations at shopping centers is a calculated move to enhance convenience for electric vehicle owners, particularly those who may not have access to home charging solutions. These retail environments offer an ideal setting for charging, as they align with typical consumer routines and dwell times.
Brixmor Property Group’s locations collectively welcome an impressive figure of over 900 million consumer visits annually. This immense foot traffic presents a significant opportunity to serve a vast number of existing and future EV drivers, transforming routine shopping trips into productive charging sessions. This strategy not only benefits EV users but also positions retail centers as essential nodes in the broader electric vehicle ecosystem.
Scott Levitan, Executive Vice President of Growth at EVgo, highlighted the rationale behind this strategic placement. “Drivers across the U.S. want infrastructure options that integrate seamlessly into their routines, and shopping centers are an ideal place to get groceries, grab a bite, or shop while charging,” Levitan stated. He further added, “Expanding our partnership with Brixmor will help make EV charging even more accessible for drivers across the country while supporting the growing demand for public charging in everyday, convenient locations.” This statement underscores the company’s commitment to user-centric infrastructure development.
A Decade of Partnership and Future Outlook
The collaboration between EVgo and Brixmor Property Group is built upon a long-standing relationship, with EVgo having installed its very first charger at a Brixmor location back in 2016. This decade of shared history provides a strong foundation for the current, ambitious expansion, demonstrating mutual confidence and a proven operational track record.
Beyond its partnership with Brixmor, EVgo has actively forged alliances with numerous other companies to broaden its fast-charging footprint. Notable partnerships include collaborations with Pilot Company and General Motors, further solidifying EVgo’s position as a key player in the evolving EV charging landscape.
According to data from the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, EVgo currently operates an extensive network comprising 5,158 individual DC fast-charging ports across 1,178 locations nationwide. This makes EVgo one of the largest and most widespread providers of public fast EV charging stations in the United States. The upcoming expansion will significantly augment these figures, reinforcing the company’s commitment to building a robust and reliable national charging infrastructure.
The continuous expansion of accessible and high-speed EV charging stations is critical for accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. By placing these vital facilities in convenient, everyday locations, EVgo and its partners are not only meeting current demand but also proactively laying the groundwork for widespread EV adoption across the country, ensuring that the charging experience is as seamless and convenient as refueling a conventional vehicle.
FAQ Section
What is the primary goal of EVgo’s latest expansion?
EVgo’s primary goal is to significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of fast EV charging stations for electric vehicle owners. By strategically installing over 500 new DC fast-charging stalls at high-traffic shopping centers, the company aims to integrate charging seamlessly into daily routines, especially for those without home charging options.
Which states will benefit from the new EV charging stations?
The new EV charging stations will be deployed across six key states: Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. This targeted geographic expansion focuses on areas with substantial consumer activity, ensuring a broader reach for fast-charging services for electric vehicle owners.
What type of chargers will be installed, and what is their capacity?
EVgo will install advanced 350-kilowatt (kW) DC fast-charging stalls. These high-capacity chargers are designed to provide ultra-fast charging speeds, allowing drivers to quickly replenish their vehicle’s battery. Each new site will have up to 12 chargers, with each capable of charging two EVs simultaneously.
Why are shopping centers ideal locations for EV charging stations?
Shopping centers are considered ideal locations because they offer significant ‘dwell time’ for consumers, allowing them to charge their vehicles while performing routine activities like shopping or dining. With Brixmor properties seeing over 900 million annual visits, these sites provide high visibility and convenience, integrating charging into daily life.
How long has EVgo partnered with Brixmor Property Group?
EVgo and Brixmor Property Group have a partnership history spanning nearly a decade. EVgo installed its first charger at a Brixmor location in 2016, making this latest expansion a continuation of a proven and successful collaboration aimed at enhancing the national network of EV charging stations.
What is the current scale of EVgo’s charging network?
According to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, EVgo currently operates 5,158 individual DC fast-charging ports spread across 1,178 locations throughout the United States. This substantial network positions EVgo as one of the largest providers of public fast-charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in the country.