EV charging networks are companies that operate and maintain EV public-charging stations. They typically require a membership in order to use the station and may partner with each other to offer greater coverage. More than 60,000 EV charging stations are available to electric vehicle drivers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Many of these stations are operated by private charging network companies, identified in resources such as Go Electric Drive’s EVSE Products, Charging Network and Service Providers tool or through one of the main industry associations (Go Electric Drive, Plug In America, Zero Emission Transportation Association).
Carmakers have begun to build their own charger networks, in an attempt to tackle range anxiety, which remains a significant hurdle for broad EV adoption. Tesla pioneered this strategy, creating its Supercharger network, which only works with the company’s vehicles. But other automakers are now joining forces to build their own large-scale networks, including BMW, GM, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Porsche, and Stellantis.
Publicly accessible fast chargers enable longer journeys, and can add up to 200 miles of range in just a few minutes. This will encourage EV owners to drive farther and reduce their dependence on home or office charging, which is currently the dominant way most EVs are charged.
However, the number of fast charging stations will need to grow significantly to keep up with demand, as EV sales expand. A recent study estimated that to support 33 million EVs by 2030, a total of 28 million publicly accessible charging ports will be needed. This will complement private residential charging, which is expected to comprise the majority of EV charging by 2035. EV Charging Networks