Daily EV news · US · 11 February 2026
EV Charging
US fast-charging ports grew 30% in 2025 despite Trump administration funding blocks and new Buy America rules
The United States added more than 18,000 new fast-charging ports in 2025, a 30% year-over-year increase, according to data firm Paren. However, the Trump administration has withheld charger funding from Democratic-controlled states, Congress has cut separate infrastructure budgets, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy this week mandated that chargers must now be fully American-made, a requirement expected to delay future installations. EV adoption rates remained flat compared to 2024.
Why it matters
The 30% surge in fast-charging infrastructure demonstrates strong underlying demand for charging work, but new Buy America mandates and selective federal funding freezes create immediate procurement uncertainty. CPOs and contractors face tighter supply-chain constraints and potential project delays as they navigate stricter domestic-content rules.
Electric Vehicles
Hyundai in talks to supply Waymo with 50,000 IONIQ 5 robotaxis by 2028 in $2.5 billion deal
Hyundai Motor is reportedly negotiating to supply Waymo with 50,000 IONIQ 5 autonomous vehicles by 2028, valued at approximately $2.5 billion at around $50,000 per vehicle. The EVs would be produced at Hyundai's Georgia Metaplant America factory and integrate Waymo's sixth generation autonomous driving technology, building on a multi-year partnership announced in October 2024. The IONIQ 5 offers 800 volt charging capability, enabling 10% to 80% charge in roughly 18 minutes and a 3,000mm wheelbase for passenger comfort.
Why it matters
This potential order represents one of the largest vehicle supply deals in autonomous driving history and signals industrial scale deployment of robotaxi fleets, creating substantial demand for high speed charging infrastructure to support commercial EV operations with minimal downtime. The 800 volt architecture requirement will influence charging network specifications for autonomous fleet operators.
Toyota to build electric Highlander SUV in the US from 2027
Toyota will launch an electric version of its Highlander SUV in 2027, manufactured in the United States. The move forms part of the Japanese carmaker's broader electrification strategy for the North American market. No production volumes or specific plant locations were disclosed in the announcement.
Why it matters
A US built electric SUV from a major OEM will expand the domestic EV fleet and potentially increase demand for workplace and public charging infrastructure. The 2027 timeline gives charge point operators and site hosts roughly two years to prepare for additional capacity requirements in areas where the Highlander is popular.
Grid & Energy
NineDot Energy raises 431 million dollars for urban battery projects in New York City
Startup NineDot Energy has secured 431 million dollars in funding to deploy battery storage systems in underutilised spaces across New York City. The capital will support projects designed to help the city manage electricity demand and grid stability. The funding round was reported by Canary Media.
Why it matters
Large scale capital deployment for distributed battery storage signals growing investor confidence in urban energy infrastructure, potentially creating procurement opportunities for installation contractors and equipment suppliers serving dense metropolitan markets.