Key Takeaways:
- EVgo is significantly expanding its national DC fast-charging network by adding over 500 new fast chargers.
- These new EV charging stations will be strategically located at shopping centers across the United States.
- The expansion deepens EVgo’s existing partnership with Brixmor Property Group, a major commercial real estate developer.
- The initiative targets high-traffic retail environments, enhancing convenience for millions of American consumers.
- New 350 kW stalls capable of charging two EVs simultaneously will be deployed in key states, starting later this year.
EVgo, a prominent player in the American electric vehicle (EV) charging sector, has announced a substantial expansion of its DC fast-charging network. The company plans to install more than 500 new fast chargers across the United States, strategically placing them in shopping centers visited by hundreds of millions of Americans annually.
This initiative represents a significant step towards bolstering the nation’s public EV charging infrastructure, making electric vehicle ownership more accessible and convenient for a growing number of drivers. The focus on high-traffic retail locations aims to seamlessly integrate EV charging into consumers’ daily routines.
Strategic Expansion into Retail Hubs
The core of this expansion lies in deepening EVgo’s long-standing collaboration with Brixmor Property Group. Brixmor, one of the largest commercial real estate developers in the U.S., oversees a vast portfolio of shopping centers. This renewed partnership is set to dramatically increase the availability of EV charging stations within these retail environments.
Upon completion of the deployment, the agreement will see EVgo fast chargers featured at a minimum of 90 Brixmor shopping centers. This represents more than 25% of the developer’s entire portfolio, underscoring the scale and commitment behind this infrastructure upgrade.
The Brixmor Partnership: A Deepening Alliance
The relationship between EVgo and Brixmor Property Group is not new, tracing its origins back to 2016 when the first EVgo charger was installed at one of Brixmor’s properties. This decade-long history of collaboration provides a solid foundation for the current expansion, built on mutual understanding and shared objectives.
The strategic choice of shopping centers for these new EV charging stations leverages the inherent dwell time associated with retail visits. Shoppers can conveniently charge their vehicles while they engage in groceries, dining, or other retail activities, transforming what might otherwise be idle time into productive charging sessions.
Technical Capabilities and Geographic Reach
The new EV charging stations will feature EVgo’s advanced 350-kilowatt (kW) stalls. These high-power chargers are designed for rapid energy delivery, significantly reducing charging times. Each individual charger is capable of delivering power to two electric vehicles simultaneously, maximizing throughput and efficiency at each site.
Deployment of these cutting-edge facilities is scheduled to commence later this year. Key states targeted for this initial rollout include Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The very first site is anticipated to go live in Barn Plaza, located in a suburb of Philadelphia, setting the pace for subsequent installations.
Each new site within the Brixmor portfolio is planned to host up to 12 EVgo chargers. This multi-charger setup at each location is crucial for accommodating a substantial volume of electric vehicles, effectively mitigating potential wait times during peak usage.
Addressing the EV Charging Demand
The expansion directly addresses the escalating demand for reliable and accessible public EV charging infrastructure. As electric vehicle adoption continues to surge, the availability of convenient charging solutions becomes paramount for both current EV owners and prospective buyers.
For individuals who do not have access to home charging, often due to apartment living or lack of dedicated parking, public EV charging stations are essential. This initiative by EVgo and Brixmor aims to ease the daily routines of these drivers, providing readily available power when they are already out and about.
Convenience as a Catalyst for Adoption
Scott Levitan, Executive Vice President, Growth at EVgo, articulated the strategic rationale behind this expansion: “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.”
He further elaborated, “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 commitment to user experience and accessibility as primary drivers for network growth.
Brixmor’s properties collectively welcome over 900 million consumer visits each year. This immense foot traffic represents a vast potential user base for the new EV charging stations, indicating significant growth opportunities for the EV charging business in these retail environments.
EVgo’s Broader Network and Industry Impact
EVgo has established itself as one of the largest EV charging operators in the United States. According to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, the company currently operates 5,158 individual DC fast-charging ports across 1,178 locations nationwide. This extensive network provides a robust foundation for continued expansion.
Beyond its partnership with Brixmor, EVgo has also forged alliances with other major entities to further deploy its fast chargers. Notable collaborations include partnerships with Pilot Company and General Motors, demonstrating a diversified strategy for expanding its footprint and ensuring widespread availability of electric vehicle charging.
The Future of Public EV Charging Stations
This latest expansion by EVgo is indicative of a broader trend within the electric vehicle industry: the increasing focus on developing comprehensive and user-friendly public charging solutions. As more manufacturers introduce new EV models and government incentives encourage adoption, the reliability and ubiquity of EV charging stations are critical.
The strategic placement of fast chargers in areas where people already spend time, such as shopping centers, reduces range anxiety and promotes greater confidence in electric vehicles as a viable and practical mode of transportation. These efforts are crucial for accelerating the transition to a sustainable electrified future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main goal of EVgo’s new expansion?
The primary goal is to significantly enhance the availability of DC fast-charging for electric vehicles across the U.S. by strategically placing over 500 new EV charging stations in high-traffic shopping centers, making charging more convenient and integrated into daily routines for EV owners.
Which company is EVgo partnering with for this expansion?
EVgo is expanding its long-standing partnership with Brixmor Property Group, a major commercial real estate developer. This collaboration will see fast chargers installed at many of Brixmor’s shopping center properties nationwide.
How many new fast chargers will be installed, and where?
Over 500 new fast chargers will be installed across at least 90 Brixmor shopping centers. Initial deployments are planned for states including Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas, with the first site launching in Barn Plaza.
What are the technical specifications of these new chargers?
The new EV charging stations will be EVgo’s 350-kilowatt (kW) stalls. Each charger is designed to deliver high-speed power and can simultaneously charge two electric vehicles, optimizing efficiency and service capacity at each location.
How will this expansion benefit EV owners without home charging?
This initiative directly benefits EV owners who lack access to home charging by providing readily available and convenient public fast-charging options at places they frequently visit, such as shopping centers, allowing them to charge while running errands or shopping.
When will the deployment of these new charging stations begin?
The deployment of these new EV charging stations is scheduled to commence later this year. The first site is anticipated to become operational in Barn Plaza, located in a Philadelphia suburb, initiating the nationwide rollout.