In an effort to establish something far bigger than what it presently has with Electrify America, Walmart strives to build its own network of EV rapid charging stations. By 2030, the company intends to have “thousands” of chargers installed at all of its Walmart and Sam’s Club locations countrywide. According to a press release from the firm, there are already around 1,300 fast chargers spread across more than 280 sites in the United States.
The initial chargers won’t be installed right away, but according to the press release, Walmart wants to promote inexpensive costs. That almost seems like a direct criticism of the most recent pricing increases by Electrify America, which saw regular customers smacked with a 15% rate rise. Electrify America blamed the increases on “rising operational and energy costs” when it made the announcement in February.
Walmart Played a Key Role in Electrify America’s Growth
Although Walmart and Electrify America formerly collaborated on EV fast charging, both businesses now appear to be on divergent paths. In 2018, Electrify America stated that it will install solar panels at Walmart; since then, it appears to have expanded to other types of sites.
Since collaborating with Walmart, Electrify America has expanded its list of corporate sponsors to include Love’s Travel Stops, Ikea, Bank of America, and Meijer supermarkets. In an effort to go beyond road trips, it has now started to consider city charges and places at national parks.
Walmart’s EV Transition Will Help Customers Live Better
In addition to building a coast-to-coast network of EV charging stations, Walmart has also modified the supply chains for its goods. By 2040, they aimed to have zero emissions across all of their businesses worldwide. By 2022, many Walmart Plus customers were getting their packages delivered by electric cars.
These initiatives help to ensure sustainable living, in part. Walmart wants to make owning an EV appealing by making it simple and affordable, and by 2030, the country will have thousands of new charging stations.
