Electrify America to Double EV Charger Network | Electric Vehicle Charging

Electrify America to Significantly Expand Charging Network

Electrify America, established by Volkswagen following settlements related to diesel emissions issues, has announced plans to double its network of electric vehicle fast charging stations across the United States and Canada. This expansion is slated for completion by the close of 2025.

Network Growth and Deployment

Successful implementation of this commitment will result in the operation of 1,800 fast charging stations, comprising a total of 10,000 individual chargers. The majority of these stations – approximately 1,700 – will be located within the United States, with the remaining installations taking place in Canada.

This expansion builds upon existing goals to have around 800 charging stations and 3,500 individual chargers operational in the U.S. by the end of 2021. Currently, Electrify America has deployed 635 charging stations throughout the United States.

Investment and Global Strategy

This initiative is part of a broader announcement from VW Group regarding increased investment in public charging infrastructure across North America, Asia, and Europe. The focus will be on deploying 150 and 350 kilowatt chargers, which are categorized as fast chargers.

While the precise financial commitment hasn't been disclosed, an Electrify America spokesperson confirmed that the company will invest more than the previously allocated $2 billion dedicated to clean energy infrastructure over the initial 10-year period, beginning in 2017.

Driving Factors Behind the Expansion

According to Giovanni Palazzo, president and CEO of Electrify America, the decision to double the charging infrastructure in North America is directly linked to the anticipated rapid growth of the electric vehicle market, as projected by nearly all automotive manufacturers.

Evolution of the EV Landscape

The electric vehicle market has broadened significantly beyond its early adopters. Initially dominated by manufacturers like Tesla, Nissan, and General Motors, a growing number of EV models are now available or forthcoming.

These include vehicles such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Porsche Taycan and its Cross Turismo variant, Hyundai Kona Electric, Jaguar I-Pace, Rivian R1T pickup and R1S SUV, and the VW ID. 4.

Initial Investment and Geographic Focus

Electrify America’s original plan involved investing over $2 billion in clean energy infrastructure and educational programs over a decade. A substantial portion – $800 million – was specifically designated for California, the largest EV market in North America.

This latest investment will be utilized to enhance charger availability in established EV regions, including California, and to extend the network into new states like Hawaii, North Dakota, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wyoming, and Vermont.

Expanding Coverage and Cross-Country Travel

The company is also strategically adding chargers along key highway corridors in the upper Midwest, mirroring previous efforts to facilitate long-distance electric vehicle travel.

Electrify Canada’s Expansion

Electrify Canada will broaden its network to encompass nine provinces, including Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Furthermore, it will increase its presence in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, where it currently operates.