Lack of Charging Infrastructure a Major Concern for EV Owners
The number of electric vehicles (EVs) in the U.S. has almost doubled in the past three years. While public charging ports account for about 88% of all EV charging ports, many owners prefer to charge their vehicles at home due to cost and convenience. However, the lack of charging infrastructure across the country remains a significant challenge for drivers.
Different Levels of Public Charging Ports
According to reports, there are three levels of public charging ports. Level one stations, which are limited to only about 200, can take more than 50 hours to charge a vehicle from empty to 80% full. Most public stations are level two, capable of charging a vehicle to 80% in four to 10 hours. Only 15% of public chargers are fast charging or level three, taking between 20 minutes to an hour to reach 80% charge.
Insufficient Infrastructure and Grid Constraints
The CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Jim Matheson, acknowledges the demand for fast charging but highlights the challenges in meeting this need. He explains that the current electrical grid is not designed to handle the high power requirements of fast charging stations. Additionally, the complexity of building these charging stations, including obtaining permits, further delays their implementation.
Funding and Slow Progress in Infrastructure Development
In 2021, the U.S. government allocated $7.5 billion from the $1 trillion infrastructure bill to build electric vehicle charging stations. However, the implementation process has been slow, with the first fast charging stations taking more than two years to open. Matheson suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work, and investments should be tailored to the needs of different regions.
Addressing Range Concerns and Fuel Corridors
The U.S. Department of Transportation is working to address range anxiety by identifying locations across the country where electric vehicle road trips would be possible. These areas, known as fuel corridors, are still mostly in the planning stages, with the majority situated along the East and West coasts. Currently, an electric vehicle road trip along the iconic Route 66 is not feasible.
Exploring Alternative Charging Technologies
One potential solution to charging infrastructure challenges is wireless charging technology. Swedish company Electreon has completed its first project in Detroit, where coils are placed beneath the asphalt, and a receiver in the vehicle is charged as it travels over these coils. Electreon is also working on wireless charging projects in multiple countries, including bus terminals in Israel and delivery truck loading docks in Sweden.
The Market’s Role in Driving Infrastructure Development
As the EV market continues to grow, stakeholders hope that technological advancements and market forces will drive the development of necessary infrastructure. By allowing the market to lead, it is expected that reliable and affordable charging solutions can be achieved to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.
