Retail Charging: The New Electric Slide

As a new EV owner of a non-Tesla vehicle (a Subaru of America #Solterra), I recently had my first experience with an #ElectrifyAmerica #Level3ChargingStation. Nestled conveniently in a covered area of a mall, the station provided me with the fast charging my vehicle needed and gave me the perfect opportunity to explore nearby shops and grab a quick bite to finish up some family shopping. It was a seamless blend of convenience and sustainability that left me reflecting on the broader impact of Electrify America’s strategy.

For non-Tesla EV drivers like me, these stations are indispensable, offering reliable and fast charging options in accessible locations. Level 3 chargers can fully charge the vehicle in 45 minutes, allowing charger turnover at a faster pace and a legitimate retail experience. That's why and how placement of these chargers is breathing new life into physical retail spaces—many of which have been hit hard by e-commerce growth and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retailers benefit from this increased foot traffic, as it offers opportunities to recapture customers and redefine their relevance in the digital age. For restaurants, it’s a chance to offer a place to relax and dine while vehicles charge outside. This partnership between EV infrastructure and retail is a masterstroke in fostering synergy between sustainability and economic recovery.

For me, charging my car became more than a necessary stop—it was a chance to engage with local businesses. Electrify America is doing more than powering vehicles; it’s powering communities. So, thank you to Robert Barrosa and the other Electrify America innovators I say please keep going. Your company’s forward-thinking strategy is a shining example of how innovation can align with economic and environmental progress.