Key Takeaways:
- EVgo, a prominent American electric vehicle (EV) charging operator, is significantly expanding its DC fast-charging network.
- The company plans to deploy more than 500 new EVgo fast chargers across at least 90 shopping centers owned by Brixmor Property Group.
- This strategic expansion leverages high-traffic retail locations, aiming to provide convenient charging solutions for millions of consumers who visit these centers annually.
- New installations, featuring 350-kilowatt stalls, will commence later this year in key states like Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
- Each new site will host up to 12 chargers, capable of simultaneously serving two EVs, enhancing public charging accessibility and supporting the growing adoption of electric vehicles.
EVgo, a leading operator in the American electric vehicle charging infrastructure, is embarking on a significant expansion of its fast-charging network. The company announced plans to install over 500 new high-power charging stalls in strategically located shopping centers across the United States, addressing a critical need for convenient public charging options.
This initiative represents a substantial boost to the nation’s electric vehicle charging network, aiming to integrate charging capabilities into the daily routines of millions of Americans. The strategic placement at retail hubs underscores a growing industry trend to make EV charging as accessible and seamless as possible.
Strategic Expansion Targets High-Traffic Retail Hubs
The expansion is a direct result of EVgo deepening its existing partnership with Brixmor Property Group, one of the largest commercial real estate developers in the U.S. This collaboration will see EVgo fast chargers rolled out across a significant portion of Brixmor’s extensive portfolio.
Upon completion, at least 90 Brixmor shopping centers are slated to feature EVgo’s advanced charging solutions, representing over 25% of the developer’s vast commercial property footprint. This focused approach ensures the new infrastructure is situated where consumer traffic is consistently high.
Brixmor Property Group’s locations collectively welcome over 900 million consumer visits each year. This immense footfall presents a significant opportunity to provide charging services to a broad demographic of existing and prospective EV owners, particularly those who may not have access to home charging.
Advanced Charging Technology and Geographic Reach
The new EVgo fast chargers will be 350-kilowatt (kW) stalls, capable of delivering rapid power to electric vehicles. This high-speed charging capability is crucial for minimizing wait times and enhancing the overall user experience, making it practical for drivers to charge during a typical shopping trip.
Deployment of these new EVgo fast chargers is scheduled to begin later this year. The first site slated to go online is located in Barn Plaza, a key shopping destination in a Philadelphia suburb, setting the precedent for subsequent installations.
The geographic scope of this expansion is considerable, targeting several populous states where EV adoption is steadily rising. New locations for EVgo fast chargers will include Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas, enhancing charging accessibility in diverse markets.
Each new charging site will be equipped with up to 12 individual EVgo chargers. A notable feature of these units is their ability to deliver power to two electric vehicles simultaneously, effectively doubling the charging capacity at each stall and maximizing throughput for drivers.
Enhancing Convenience for EV Owners
The strategic decision to place EVgo fast chargers at shopping centers directly addresses a key challenge for many EV owners: convenient access to public charging. For those residing in apartments or without dedicated home charging infrastructure, retail locations offer a practical solution.
Drivers can now seamlessly integrate vehicle charging into their daily routines. The ability to charge an EV while running errands, grocery shopping, or dining out transforms what could be a chore into a productive use of time, alleviating range anxiety and improving the ownership experience.
Scott Levitan, Executive Vice President, Growth at EVgo, highlighted the consumer-centric approach driving 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,” 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 sentiment underscores the commitment to meeting evolving consumer needs in the rapidly expanding EV market.
EVgo’s Broader Impact on the Charging Landscape
This latest expansion with Brixmor Property Group builds upon a foundational relationship that dates back nearly a decade. EVgo initially installed its first charger at a Brixmor location in 2016, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to developing charging solutions in retail environments.
EVgo maintains a robust and growing network across the United States. According to data from 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 makes EVgo one of the most extensive public DC fast-charging networks available to American drivers.
Beyond its partnership with Brixmor, EVgo has forged alliances with other major entities to accelerate the deployment of its fast chargers. Notable collaborations include those with Pilot Company and General Motors, further diversifying its network reach and strengthening its position in the competitive EV charging market.
The continued proliferation of EVgo fast chargers at accessible locations like shopping centers plays a crucial role in accelerating the broader adoption of electric vehicles. By addressing infrastructure concerns, EVgo contributes significantly to building a more sustainable and convenient future for transportation in the United States.
FAQ Section
What is the scale of EVgo’s new charging expansion?
EVgo is adding over 500 new DC fast-charging stalls. These will be installed across at least 90 shopping centers nationwide, representing more than 25% of Brixmor Property Group’s extensive portfolio.
What power output will the new EVgo fast chargers offer?
The new EVgo fast chargers will deliver up to 350 kilowatts (kW) of power. This high-speed charging capability ensures quick replenishment of EV batteries, allowing drivers to gain significant range during short stops.
When will the deployment of these new chargers begin?
Deployment of the new EVgo fast chargers is scheduled to commence later this year. The first planned installation is set for Barn Plaza, located in a Philadelphia suburb, initiating the broader rollout.
Which states are included in this EVgo charging network expansion?
The expansion targets several key states: Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. These locations were chosen to enhance EV charging accessibility in high-demand and growing electric vehicle markets.
How many vehicles can charge at a single new EVgo site?
Each new EVgo charging site at a Brixmor property will feature up to 12 individual chargers. Each charger is designed to deliver power to two electric vehicles simultaneously, efficiently serving a larger number of drivers.
Why are shopping centers ideal locations for EV charging?
Shopping centers are considered ideal for EV charging due to their high consumer traffic, with Brixmor properties alone seeing over 900 million visits annually. This allows EV drivers to conveniently charge their vehicles while performing errands, shopping, or dining.
What is EVgo’s current overall network size in the U.S.?
According to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, EVgo currently operates 5,158 individual DC fast-charging ports across 1,178 distinct locations throughout the United States, making it a major player in public charging infrastructure.