Daily EV news · US · 29 July 2026

Walmart has launched its own branded EV charging network, opening approximately 46 high-speed stations through June 2025, including four in Bentonville, Arkansas since January. The retailer, which previously hosted third-party chargers from brands like Electrify America since 2018, now operates all stations under its own brand as of March 2024. Industry observers note Walmart has overtaken Costco and established charging operators in deployment speed.

Why it matters: A major retailer entering the charging market as an owner-operator shifts competitive dynamics for CPOs and could pressure pricing across public networks. Walmart's property portfolio and capital give it advantages in site control and deployment pace that pure-play charging companies must now counter in procurement bids.

General Motors has integrated ChargePoint into its Energy Pass service, allowing drivers to locate, start and pay for charging through myChevrolet, myGMC and myCadillac apps. The addition gives access to ChargePoint's DC fast charging and Level 2 stations, with GM stating Energy Pass is expected to reach approximately 70 per cent of all US DC fast chargers and 60 per cent of public Level 2 chargers as further network integrations are completed. Many ChargePoint stations available through Energy Pass support Plug and Charge functionality.

Why it matters: The integration consolidates driver access across multiple networks through a single OEM platform, potentially shifting procurement leverage towards manufacturers that can aggregate demand and simplify billing for fleet or retail customers. GM's stated coverage targets signal a competitive push in roaming interoperability, which may influence how CPOs negotiate access agreements and prioritise software integration work.

The Illinois Finance Authority has launched its inaugural EV charging stations in Springfield and Charleston, featuring both Level 2 and DC Fast Charging ports. The deployment marks a milestone in the state programme aimed at expanding clean transportation infrastructure access across Illinois.

Why it matters: The rollout demonstrates state-backed procurement moving from planning to physical deployment, signalling active tender opportunities and installation work for contractors and charge point operators targeting Illinois public infrastructure projects.

Pilot Company installed 50 electric vehicle charging sites across 25 states during the first six months of 2026, expanding its coast to coast EV programme to a presence in 40 states, according to Scott Hundley, director of light duty EV and infrastructure at Pilot. The announcement comes as new electric car sales in the US are expected to slow in 2026, with EVs making up 10% of cars on the road in 2025 according to International Energy Agency data, while some convenience store and travel centre operators have pulled back on charging rollouts.

Why it matters: The continued expansion by Pilot signals that some major site operators remain committed to building charging infrastructure despite slower EV adoption and federal targets falling short, offering procurement teams a view of which networks are still actively tendering for equipment and construction.