New Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Open in Arizona
The rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure in Arizona has taken a significant step forward with the opening of three new charging stations. These stations are the first of many to be established along the state’s highways, funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program from the Biden administration.
With an allocation of over $76 million dollars, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is spearheading this initiative. The initial stations are strategically located along interstates in the southern region of Arizona, specifically two near Tucson and one close to Yuma.
According to Garin Groff, a spokesperson for ADOT, “Most of the stations will be at places like gas stations where people are already stopping for other needs. You know, they’re going to the convenience store to get a drink or a snack, that’s a good place and a good time for them to stop and charge their vehicle.”
This network of around 80 charging stations will be situated within 3 miles of major highways, aiming to alleviate concerns about the driving range of electric vehicles. When fully implemented, the plan ensures that charging stations are no more than 90 miles apart.
The new stations are equipped with North American Charging Standard (NACS) and Combined Charging System (CCS) plugs, ensuring compatibility with most electric vehicles on the road today. These stations are designed to recharge an EV in approximately 30 minutes.
Federal grants are covering the majority of the costs, with developers funding the remaining 20%. All stations are privately owned and operated. Groff added, “Whether they’re a gas station and a convenience store, which is going to be the most common type of location, but also there might be restaurants that are interested in adding this in the parking lot, just as there are some hotels.”
Additional stations are expected to open along I-40 in Seligman and Holbrook later this year. Meanwhile, ADOT is actively seeking bids to develop 49 more stations across the state.
DC Fast Charger Locations in Arizona
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