In a significant push to expand the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the United States, General Motors (GM) and EVgo (EVGO) have announced plans to roll out a series of “flagship” charging stations in major urban centers.
With over 400 fast-charging stalls planned by 2025, these stations will be positioned in key metropolitan areas such as Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New York, and Texas.
Each of these locations will be carefully selected for convenience, placing them near popular spots like shopping centers, restaurants, and coffee shops, ensuring that drivers can charge their vehicles while enjoying easy access to amenities.
A New Standard for EV Charging
These flagship stations are designed to raise the bar for the EV charging experience. Each site will boast 20 individual fast-charging stalls, equipped with advanced 350 kW chargers capable of delivering up to 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes.
This kind of speed is crucial as EVs continue to grow in popularity and the demand for rapid charging solutions increases.
In addition to speed, these stations will be built with the user in mind. The pull-through parking stalls, ample lighting, security cameras, and canopies to protect vehicles from the elements are all part of the strategy to make the charging experience as seamless and comfortable as possible.
The design of these stations is reminiscent of traditional gas stations, but with a futuristic, eco-friendly twist that aligns with the growing EV market.
Faster, Cheaper Installation with Prefabrication
One of the standout features of this collaboration is the use of EVgo’s prefabrication technology, which allows for the quicker and more cost-effective construction of charging stations.
Instead of building each charging stall from scratch on-site, these stations are modularly assembled offsite and then transported to the designated locations. This approach is not only innovative but also practical, reducing installation costs by up to 15% and cutting deployment time by 50%.
As EV adoption continues to soar, this efficient deployment strategy will play a key role in rapidly expanding the nation’s charging infrastructure, especially in densely populated urban areas where the demand for fast, reliable charging is high.
GM and EVgo’s Continued Partnership
GM and EVgo are no strangers to collaboration. Their partnership dates back to 2020, when they began working together to deploy 2,850 fast chargers across the United States.
As of August 2023, the two companies celebrated a significant milestone: the opening of their 1,000th fast-charging stall. By the end of 2024, they expect to have over 2,000 fast chargers operational, with a long-term goal of completing the entire 2,850-charger network by 2025.
These flagship stations represent the next phase in their partnership, signaling GM’s commitment to not just expanding the availability of fast chargers but improving the quality of the charging experience.
The Ultium 360 network, which GM is building alongside these initiatives, aims to provide a unified system where GM vehicle owners can easily access third-party charging networks, streamlining the process for all-electric vehicle drivers.
Addressing Range Anxiety and Urban Charging Gaps
Despite advancements in EV technology, one of the biggest hurdles to widespread adoption remains range anxiety—the fear that an EV’s battery will run out of power before reaching a charging station. This concern is particularly prevalent in urban environments, where home charging may not be a viable option for many drivers.
GM estimates that while around 80% of EV owners will likely charge at home, public charging stations are essential for the remaining 20%, especially those living in apartments or areas without access to private chargers. This is where the new flagship stations will make a significant impact, providing accessible and reliable charging solutions in convenient locations.
The strategic placement of these stations near everyday amenities ensures that charging becomes a part of daily life, rather than an inconvenience. Drivers can stop for a coffee, run errands, or enjoy a meal while their car charges—further integrating the EV experience into their regular routines.
Expanding Beyond Urban Centers
While the focus of this latest initiative is on urban charging infrastructure, GM and EVgo are also continuing their work on building a coast-to-coast fast-charging network. By partnering with Pilot and Flying J travel centers, GM and EVgo are creating long-distance charging solutions for road trips and highway travel.
These stations, which are expected to be located in high-traffic areas along major routes, will offer the same high-power 350 kW chargers, ensuring that EV drivers can travel confidently across the country without worrying about access to charging.
The broader initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to EV infrastructure, one that addresses both urban and rural charging needs. As more drivers transition to electric vehicles, these networks will play a crucial role in ensuring that the U.S. is fully equipped to support the growing demand for EV charging.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
The first of these flagship stations is expected to open in 2025, and the companies are optimistic that this will mark the beginning of a new era for EV charging in the U.S. By leveraging EVgo’s prefabrication technology, the rollout of these stations should be swift and efficient, providing much-needed charging infrastructure across the nation.
As the EV market continues to evolve, GM and EVgo are positioning themselves as leaders in the electric mobility space. With the demand for fast, reliable charging growing every day, the companies’ commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction will be essential in helping more drivers make the switch to electric.
Charge Complete
GM and EVgo’s collaboration represents a major step forward in the future of EV charging. With high-speed chargers, thoughtfully designed stations, and a user-first approach, these flagship locations will set a new standard for what EV drivers can expect from public charging.
Whether you’re charging during a quick stop or planning a longer road trip, these stations promise to deliver a faster, more reliable, and enjoyable experience.
As more electric vehicles hit the road, and the network of charging stations expands, the future of EV charging looks brighter than ever. With GM and EVgo leading the charge, the goal of widespread EV adoption in the U.S. is becoming more and more attainable.
YAWN… GM is the worst at announcing big plans, and then revising, pulling back, revising again, then canceling – except for maybe VW. And EVGo is the worst charging network in my area (no surprise).
This is the same old tired announcements EVERY EV company does, about their big plans, how awesome is going to be, etc. Still waiting on anyone to actually show up and do what they announce.
Not a word about the plug! Will I be able to charge my LEAF??