Daily EV news · US · 26 May 2026
EV Charging
Walmart expands US EV charging network by 50% in one month to 300 ports at 50 stores
Walmart has grown its DC fast charging network to over 300 individual ports at 50 US stores, a 50% increase in one month following a similar 50% rise from February through April, according to InsideEVs. The ports deliver up to 400 kilowatts. General Manager Adam Happel confirmed the retailer is trialling card payment terminals at one station after customer feedback, with plans to roll out the feature to future sites alongside its existing app based payment system.
Why it matters
The rapid deployment pace and addition of card readers signal Walmart's intent to make charging more accessible for non app users, potentially reshaping expectations for convenience and payment flexibility at retail hosted charging sites. CPOs and site hosts may face competitive pressure to match both the rollout speed and the payment options Walmart is introducing.
Wisconsin opens grant applications for next round of National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure funding
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has opened the application period for the next allocation of National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) programme grants. The announcement was made through Urban Milwaukee, though the notice does not specify funding amounts, deadlines or eligible project types for this round.
Why it matters
NEVI funding rounds shape where charging infrastructure is built along designated corridors, creating procurement opportunities for charge point operators and equipment suppliers targeting federally supported deployment in Wisconsin.
Springfield launches first public EV chargers with 40 ports planned across nine sites
City Water, Light and Power has opened the first publicly operated Level 2 charging stations in Springfield, Illinois, with initial installations at the University of Illinois at Springfield, Parkway Pointe on Freedom Drive, and West Wabash Avenue and Drawbridge Road. The full rollout will deliver 40 charging ports across nine locations, all 240 volt Level 2 units adding 25 to 35 miles of range per hour at $0.26 per kilowatt hour. B & B Electric installed the chargers under contract with Hanson Professional Services.
Why it matters
The nine site, 40 port municipal deployment shows a mid sized US city entering the public charging market directly through its utility, creating procurement opportunities for contractors and equipment suppliers in demand led expansion zones. The Level 2 focus and per kilowatt hour pricing model offer a reference case for other municipal utilities evaluating similar infrastructure investments.
Electric Vehicles
New York reports 323,000 EVs and plug-in hybrids registered, backed by nearly $3 billion state investment
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) reports 323,000 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids registered statewide in 2024, part of a total 600,000 electrified vehicles including older hybrids. The state is investing nearly $3 billion in zero emission vehicles and charging infrastructure, which now includes more than 20,000 publicly available Level 2 fast charger ports at over 5,250 locations according to the U.S. Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center. The EVolve NY Network has deployed more than 300 fast chargers along major corridors including the NYS Thruway, I-87 and I-90.
Why it matters
The nearly $3 billion state commitment and rapid expansion to over 5,250 charging locations signals sustained procurement opportunities for CPOs and contractors across New York's highway and urban networks. The 323,000 registered EVs and plug-in hybrids represent a growing utilisation base that justifies further infrastructure investment and operational contracts.