Summary
– EV charging infrastructure is expanding with over 64,000 Level 2 and 10,000 Level 3 charging locations in the US
– Apps like PlugShare and ChargeHub help locate chargers and provide real-time data
– Major EV charging providers in the US include ChargePoint, Tesla, Electrify America, EVgo, Blink Charging, and Shell Recharge
– ChargePoint is the largest EV charging network in the country with over 15,000 locations
– Tesla offers Superchargers and Destination chargers, Electrify America focuses on DC fast chargers, EVgo provides Level 3 charging ports, Blink Charging offers Level 2 chargers, and Shell Recharge is rapidly expanding its network in America.
Article
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, the need for EV charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly. The latest data from the U.S. Department of Energy reveals that there are over 64,000 locations offering Level 2 charging and over 10,000 locations providing Level 3 DC fast charging across the country. However, this infrastructure is not centralized, with multiple private companies running charging networks. Navigating this expanded infrastructure can be confusing for EV owners, but there are apps like PlugShare and ChargeHub that help locate chargers and provide real-time data on speed and availability.
When it comes to choosing an EV charging provider, convenience plays a significant role. The best provider for you may depend on which charger is located near your home or on the way to your destination. However, there are key differences among major players in the EV charging network that are worth considering. ChargePoint, America’s largest EV charging network, offers over 15,000 charging locations, with most being Level 2 chargers. Tesla, on the other hand, has over 2,200 Supercharger stations nationwide, primarily along major highways and in urban areas, providing faster charging for Tesla vehicles.
Electrify America, started by Volkswagen as part of its Dieselgate settlement, offers over 900 locations and 4,000 charging ports across 47 states and Canada. The network provides DC fast chargers with speeds ranging from 150 kW to 350 kW, and also has partnerships with major automakers to offer free fast charging for certain new electric vehicles. EVgo, with over 1,000 locations and more than 2,600 Level 3 charging ports, is compatible with CCS plugs and Teslas with a CCS adapter. The network has partnerships with various corporate brands.
Blink Charging, which partners with municipalities and private businesses, merged with Sema Connect to provide over 3,500 charging ports nationwide. Shell Recharge, owned by Royal Dutch Shell, has been rapidly expanding its charging station network in America by acquiring startups like Volta and Greenlots. While most of their locations offer Level 2 chargers, their map shows over 3,000 charge points across the country. With the EV charging infrastructure growing and evolving, it’s important for EV owners to stay informed about the different providers and the services they offer to ensure a seamless and convenient charging experience.
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