Weakest link in EV rollout has been fast charging stations. Private initiatives are working to fill that.
Makes sense for Walmart in this case – Good way to draw in customers.
Walmart is kicking off plans to build and remodel hundreds of stores in the US – and those plans include installing DC fast chargers.
The retail giant announced in April 2023 that it was going to build its own DC fast charging network at thousands of its Walmart and Sam’s Club stores by 2030.
Now Walmart is hitting the ground running: It says it’s going to remodel 650 stores across 47 states and Puerto Rico over the next 12 months, and build or convert more than 150 stores in the next five years. DC fast charger installation is included in that plan.
Here’s a bonkers statistic for you: 90% of the US population is located within 10 miles of a Walmart.
So, with that slightly unnerving fact in mind, if every Walmart and Sam’s Club has DC fast chargers, then it creates a pretty awesome network of places to charge your EV. It already has almost 1,300 DC fast-charging stations at more than 280 US stores.
Those fast chargers on Walmart parking lots will not only aim to facilitate the shopping sprees of EV owners, but will also be a part of a nationwide charging network that America’s largest retailer is aiming to build.
These new facilities will be designed with sustainability in mind, including more energy-efficient equipment and lighting, lower impact refrigerants and more. We’re also working on developing a coast-to-coast network of affordable electric vehicle fast-charging stations we hope will make EV ownership a more convenient and accessible choice for Walmart shoppers and associates.
Great business-attraction move.
“Well, since we’re already here, let’s pick up that….”