In the not-so-distant future, electric vehicle owners may be able to eat dinner, exercise, go shopping, work and even do laundry while powering up their cars at multipurpose charging stations.
Several companies, including Electrify America are installing fast-charging stations across the country in well-lit public places with security cameras. One of the biggest concerns people cite about purchasing an EV is the lack of convenient charging stations, and companies and car manufacturers are aiming to change that.
“We’re trying to meet customers where life happens,” said Misti Murphey, director of marketing and communications at Electrify America. “We have the largest charging network in North America, coast to coast from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.”
Electrify America is investing more than $2 billion in zero-emissions vehicle infrastructure and access and is expecting to increase its number of sites by 30% this year.
Electrify America’s fast-charging network can accommodate three types of connectors.
Drivers pay based on the number of kilowatts dispensed and can manage their payments through an app. The app can tell drivers if a charging station is available, whether it is occupied and the cost. The price updates as the cars are charging.
Since charging an EV takes longer than filling a car with gas — at least 30 minutes, usually — Electrify America and other companies are installing chargers near supermarkets and shopping centers and building them with rest stop-type services, so drivers can put their time to good use while cars charge.
“Even with the fastest charging system, we want to pair charging with amenities at the location,” Murphey said. “The network is built to instill confidence.”
Another firm, Ionna, founded by eight car companies, is building Rechargeries, charging stations that are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include lounges with restrooms and food for sale. Currently, Ionna has 12 operating Rechargeries in 14 states and 15 are under construction across the U.S.
The company recently announced an agreement with Wawa, to install rechargeries at some of its locations.
General Motors, EVgo and Pilot Company have been constructing charging stations modeled after gas stations along heavily traveled highways, including Interstate 75 between Michigan and Georgia. So far, they are operating at more than 130 locations in 25-plus states. The locations are equipped with free Wi-Fi, lounges, refreshments, restaurants and restrooms.
Tesla opened Tesla Diner in mid-July in Los Angeles’ Hollywood area. Loaded with superchargers on the grounds, the saucer-shaped edifice includes two drive-in-movie-size screens and a restaurant with the vibe of a 1950s diner.
“If our retro-futuristic diner turns out well, which I think it will, Tesla will establish these in major cities around the world,” said Elon Musk on X.
As the number of EVs and charging stations increases, traditional gas stations are feeling pressure. These staples of American life have been disappearing since the recession of 2008, and many could be unprofitable by 2035. Installing EV chargers and expanding their offerings could help sustain gas stations, but those additions can be costly.
Demand for EV services continues to grow. Initially, Electrify America was putting four chargers at each station, but they are so busy that now it is installing up to 10.
“The demand is there for fast, public EV charging,” said Murphey.
AAA’s Recommendation: Whether you own an electric vehicle or a gas-powered car is up to you – and you should consider lots of factors in making that choice. No matter what type of vehicle you’re choosing, we recommend visiting a dealership, test driving one, and asking as many questions as possible to make an informed decision.
