Search: Plug Charging

Denver Public Schools has deployed a Kempower distributed charging system at its Hilltop Bus Terminal to support a fleet of 28 electric school buses, including 25 newly added Blue Bird Vision models. The installation, led by electrical solutions provider Winn-Marion, comprises 650 kilowatts of total power delivered through 13 dual-port Kempower Satellite dispensers, providing 26 charging plugs with dynamic power distribution. PowerFlex (formerly The Mobility House) supplied smart charging and energy management technology for the project, announced in August 2026.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates a scalable depot charging model for school districts electrifying fleets, with distributed architecture allowing dynamic power sharing across multiple vehicles to meet tight operational schedules. It highlights Kempower's growing presence in the US school bus segment and the role of integrators like Winn-Marion in delivering turnkey charging solutions for public sector clients.

Kempower analyzed North American public charging sites connected to its ChargEye cloud software and found plug count had a correlation of 0.63 with site utilization, compared with just 0.228 for installed power. Sites with eight plugs delivered 128,342 kWh versus 61,453 kWh at four plug sites, more than double the energy. The Finnish manufacturer's distributed charging setup connects multiple plugs to a centralized power unit, with software dynamically distributing available power.

Why it matters: The findings suggest charge point operators may achieve better returns by prioritizing plug availability over maximum power per charger, reshaping procurement strategies around access rather than peak charging speed alone. Kempower's data indicates infrastructure utilization depends more on serving multiple vehicles simultaneously than on deploying the highest power ratings at fewer points.

Maryland now has nearly 1,700 charging stations serving more than 150,000 registered EVs and plug-in hybrids, up from fewer than 300 stations statewide in 2014, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The state government has made widespread EV adoption a climate priority. The median EV range has tripled since 2014, though infrastructure gaps remain in some areas.

Why it matters: The sixfold growth in Maryland's charging network since 2014 signals sustained procurement opportunities as the state pursues climate-driven EV targets. CPOs and contractors should note that infrastructure gaps persist despite overall expansion, pointing to potential site development needs in underserved regions.

Walmart has reached 100 company-owned EV fast-charging sites spanning 20 states, with the milestone location in Monument, Colorado featuring eight plugs (four CCS1, four NACS) capable of up to 400 kW. Most Walmart sites deploy eight to 16 plugs using ABB A400 All-in-One and Alpitronic HYC400 Hypercharger units, which can deliver 200 kW to two vehicles simultaneously or 400 kW to one. A GMC Hummer EV test at a McKinney, Texas site demonstrated over 300 kW charging, reaching 1% to 53% in 27 minutes.

Why it matters: The 100-site milestone signals Walmart's rapid scaling of owned charging infrastructure, creating procurement opportunities for ABB and Alpitronic hardware across a growing multi-state network. The retailer's dual-standard (CCS1 and NACS) rollout and high-power hardware choices set a benchmark for site design and supplier selection in the retail charging segment.

Hyundai has introduced a permanent 10 per cent discount at Ionna fast-charging stations across the United States for owners of eligible electric vehicles, effective from 19 August. The discount applies to 2022 and newer Ioniq 5s, 2025 and newer Ioniq 5 Ns and Kona Electrics, and 2026 and newer Ioniq 9s, as well as select Genesis models, when charging sessions are initiated through the MyHyundai app or Plug Charge. Ionna, a joint venture between eight automakers including Hyundai, operates more than 150 charging locations and plans to install over 30,000 fast-charging points by 2030.

Why it matters: The discount strengthens the commercial case for Ionna's network expansion and signals how automaker-backed charging ventures are using pricing incentives to drive utilisation and differentiate from independent CPOs. For procurement teams, it highlights the growing role of OEM partnerships in shaping charging economics and customer routing decisions.

Walmart and Ionna are rapidly expanding their EV charging networks in the United States with pricing below market averages, according to Chargenomics data. Walmart is deploying 400 kW Alpitronic chargers with both NACS and CCS plugs, offering a 10% discount to Walmart+ members, and has installed hundreds of chargers in recent months. Ionna, backed by eight automakers including BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota, has committed to building 30,000 fast chargers across the United States and Canada by 2030.

Why it matters: The combination of aggressive network expansion and competitive pricing from two major players signals a potential shift in the EV charging market towards price competition, which could influence procurement strategies and site selection for charge point operators. Walmart's rapid rollout demonstrates the viability of retail-anchored charging sites, while Ionna's automaker backing and 30,000-charger target represents significant new supply entering the market.

General Motors is providing free charging at Chevrolet dealerships across Peru for buyers of plug-in models including the Captiva and Spark EUV. The move supports a market where electrified vehicle sales grew more than 86 per cent in the first half of the year, reaching 8,285 plug-in Chevrolets sold in that period. GM is expanding its Latin American EV push following a Cadillac launch in South America's largest car market.

Why it matters: The dealership charging rollout shows how OEMs are using captive networks to support EV adoption in emerging markets with limited public infrastructure. Peru's 86 per cent sales growth signals rising procurement opportunities for charge-point operators and installers serving both private dealership sites and the wider public network.

EVgo has opened a flagship charging hub in Warren, Michigan, featuring 12 high-power chargers (up to 350 kW) with both CCS and NACS plugs, located in a Meijer car park directly across from GM's Global Technical Center. The site offers canopy cover, pull-through access for towing vehicles, and charging in 15 minutes or less depending on model. EVgo plans to build additional flagship stations across California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan and Texas, each with enhanced lighting and up to 20 stalls to reduce wait times.

Why it matters: The rollout signals a shift toward larger, amenity-adjacent hubs that address dwell time and queue anxiety, key factors in CPO site selection and utilisation rates. Co-location with retail anchors and OEM facilities also points to strategic land partnerships that procurement teams can replicate when siting high-throughput depots.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched MB.Charge Public, a unified charging ecosystem that aggregates more than 3,000 charging points across over 1,000 locations from seven charge point operators, including CarputZap, Charge+, ChargeSini, chargEV, DC Handal, Gentari, and JomCharge. The system allows Mercedes-Benz electric and plug-in hybrid owners to locate, navigate, and pay for charging through the Mercedes-Benz App or the in-car MBUX multimedia system, eliminating the need for multiple operator apps. The platform also enables cross-border charging between Malaysia and Singapore, with access to networks from Charge+, ComfortDelGro Energy, SP Group, and Volt in Singapore.

Why it matters: This OEM-led aggregation model demonstrates how vehicle manufacturers are bypassing fragmented CPO ecosystems to deliver seamless roaming and payment experiences, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics for independent charge point operators. The cross-border functionality between Malaysia and Singapore signals growing regional interoperability, a key procurement consideration for fleets and infrastructure planners operating across Southeast Asian markets.

The New South Wales Government and Electric Vehicle Council have launched the EV Friendly Towns program to assess and recognise regional communities preparing for electric vehicle visitors. Battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles reached a record 36 per cent of Australian passenger car sales in June 2026. The scheme aims to help towns attract EV drivers who spend time at local businesses during charging stops.

Why it matters: Regional charging infrastructure becomes a competitive advantage for towns seeking visitor revenue, while the program may signal future procurement frameworks or grant criteria for public charging projects in NSW. CPOs and site hosts can use the assessment criteria to align deployments with state recognition and local economic development goals.

Emobi has partnered with OmniTrust to strengthen cybersecurity for Plug and Charge technology across North America. The partnership combines Emobi's ISO 15118 based JustPlug cloud platform with OmniTrust's cryptographic trust technology, enabling vehicles to authenticate and charge without cards or apps while working with both new and legacy charging hardware. The system assigns each vehicle a secure digital identity using hardware security modules and digital certificates to encrypt and authenticate charging sessions.

Why it matters: Procurement teams evaluating Plug and Charge deployments now have a security focused platform that claims compatibility with existing charger fleets, potentially reducing hardware replacement costs. The partnership addresses growing cybersecurity requirements in tender specifications as connected charging infrastructure expands.

Cardiff-based Plug Charging, founded in 2023, has grown revenue by 335% year on year and gross profit by 868%, building a managed network of 1,500 chargers through three strategic acquisitions. The company tripled its workforce and now offers depot charging, public charging and full operations and maintenance services. Operating profit rose 1,262% and net assets increased 2,300% in the 12 month period, according to founder and CEO Jarrad Morris.

Why it matters: The rapid scaling of a two year old operator into a 1,500 point network signals consolidation in the UK market and highlights the viability of acquisition-led growth models. Procurement teams evaluating partners will note the shift toward integrated operations and maintenance capability alongside hardware deployment.

Three major charging networks in Hungary have introduced restrictions between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. to reduce peak electricity demand. MOL has cut output on its 150 kW or faster Plugee chargers to 100 kW, E.ON Drive Infrastructure has halved available power at sites with 300 kW or higher capacity chargers from 3 August, and EV.app has imposed a temporary tariff of 420 forints per kilowatt hour for sessions started during evening hours. The measures respond to grid pressure from air conditioning and broader energy consumption.

Why it matters: Procurement teams and charge point operators must now factor evening demand management into site design, tariff structures and customer communications, particularly where high power infrastructure is planned. The Hungarian precedent shows how grid constraints can force operational changes that affect utilisation and revenue during commercially important hours.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has allocated $4 million through its Zero-Emission Vehicle Rebate and Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure programmes, with $400,000 supporting 55 battery-electric vehicles for 14 municipalities and $3.6 million funding 74 Level 2 charging ports and 24 fast chargers across 23 municipalities statewide. In the Finger Lakes region, Tompkins County received $22,500 for three battery-electric vehicles, the Town of Victor received $7,500 for one vehicle, and the Village of Naples received $18,490 to install four Level 2 charging ports. Since 2016, the Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Rebate Programme has awarded more than $2.25 million, supporting 286 electric vehicles and 115 plug-in hybrids.

Why it matters: The $3.6 million infrastructure allocation represents a significant procurement opportunity for CPOs and installers targeting municipal contracts in New York, with 98 charging ports being deployed across 23 communities. The programme's track record of awarding over $2.25 million since 2016 signals sustained state commitment to municipal fleet electrification and charging infrastructure expansion.

EV charging solutions provider Sevadis has announced its MaxiCharger Gen2 range targeting van fleets, comprising eight devices that scale from a 7.4kW AC plug and play home charger to rapid and ultra-rapid DC chargers. The range is available in wall, pillar, post, single, dual or quad configurations for shared, paid or underground parking environments. Each device features Rapid Install technology supported by Sevadis' Installer App, with digital commissioning, remote configuration and integrated CT clamps designed to simplify installation.

Why it matters: The modular range offers procurement teams a single-supplier solution spanning home, depot and public charging with standardised installation processes that may reduce deployment costs and timescales. The SmartDock mounting system, which stores commissioning data for quick unit replacement, addresses a common maintenance pain point for CPOs managing distributed charging networks.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Johari Abdul Ghani told the launch of Proton's first plug in hybrid electric vehicle production line in Tanjong Malim that Malaysia currently operates around 1,000 public EV chargers, far short of the national target of 30,000 units. He said charging infrastructure is a key challenge to EV adoption and will require collaboration between Tenaga Nasional Bhd, local authorities and the Ministry of Housing and Local Government. Johari noted that Malaysia has forgone RM3.3 billion in tax revenue through a four year duty free period for EVs.

Why it matters: The 30 fold gap between installed and target charger numbers signals major procurement opportunities for charge point operators and infrastructure suppliers in Malaysia. The minister's call for multi stakeholder collaboration points to upcoming tenders and public private partnerships to close the infrastructure shortfall.

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.

ANFAC's barometer to 30 June records 355 working public charge points in La Rioja and 125 out of service, whilst the region's electromobility score stood at 26.4 against a Spanish average of 26.9. A local estimate, converted at the European Central Bank's 16 July rate, puts the cost of driving 100 kilometres in an electric car at roughly 2 to 3 euros compared with 10 to 15 euros for petrol, though the final figure depends on charging location and tariff. ANFAC's index combines battery electric and plug in hybrid registrations with metrics tied to the driving age population and public infrastructure.

Why it matters: The four to fivefold energy cost advantage strengthens the business case for fleet electrification and may accelerate demand for workplace and depot charging. However, the 125 non operational points in a small region highlight the reliability pressure facing charge point operators as utilisation grows.

Australian supermarket chain Coles has launched a two year partnership with Evie Networks to deploy EV charging infrastructure at up to 30 store locations across Australia. The first site opened at Coles Middle Camberwell in Melbourne, featuring two Kempower dual plug stations offering up to 200 kW shared across four bays. Further sites will launch throughout the year in Victoria and Queensland, including new stores at Orana Village, Beveridge and Annerley, plus the existing Milton Village location.

Why it matters: The rollout signals growing retail sector investment in destination charging infrastructure, with a major grocery chain integrating EV charging into its property portfolio to meet customer demand. The partnership with Evie Networks, Australia's largest fast charging operator, demonstrates how CPOs can secure anchor retail sites through strategic alliances that align charging dwell times with shopping habits.

PlugShare, a crowd sourced mapping tool available on iOS and Android, helps EV drivers in the UAE locate free charging stations at malls, hotels and private sites before travelling. The app allows users to filter by cost and connector type, view recent check ins, and access a trip planner, though accuracy depends on active user updates in each area. It operates alongside official networks such as DEWA's nationwide app.

Why it matters: For CPOs and site hosts, the tool highlights where free charging remains a customer draw and shows how crowd sourced data shapes driver behaviour and station utilisation patterns. Understanding which locations appear on widely used apps can inform competitive positioning and help operators decide where paid infrastructure may face softer demand.

Rubicon, which runs roughly 100 public charging sites in South Africa, now charges drivers R250 for every 15 minutes their vehicle remains plugged in after a session ends and a 15 minute grace period expires. The move follows a 141 per cent rise in new EV and plug-in hybrid registrations in the first half of 2026, with more than 1,900 units added, while public charging infrastructure has lagged behind demand.

Why it matters: Idle penalties signal that utilisation pressure at existing sites is outpacing network expansion, a dynamic that may accelerate procurement of additional charging hardware and influence site design to maximise throughput. Operators and funders will watch whether financial deterrents prove effective in freeing up connectors or whether capacity additions become unavoidable.

The Karrinyup bus depot in Perth has been upgraded with 56 dual electric bus chargers providing 112 EV charging plugs, making it Western Australia's largest electric bus facility and the third Transperth site completed under the state's AU$250 million (US$175 million) bus electrification programme. Delivered by JET Charge, the project included substation and CCTV upgrades, yard reconstruction, and facility refurbishment, with 53 electric buses currently operating and the fleet expected to reach 110 by the end of 2026. The upgrade follows completed charging infrastructure at Elizabeth Quay Bus Station and Malaga Bus Depot, the latter equipped with solar PV and battery storage to support up to 110 electric buses.

Why it matters: This milestone demonstrates the scale and pace of public transport electrification procurement in Australia, with a state level AU$250 million programme driving repeat depot infrastructure contracts for specialist installers like JET Charge. The integration of solar PV and battery storage at previous sites signals evolving technical requirements for future bus depot tenders across the region.

Driving ECO has released a buyer's guide advising consumers on selecting plug in hybrid electric vehicle SUVs for urban use in 2026, with recommendations tailored to charging location availability and daily driving distance. The guide addresses procurement considerations for PHEV models in city environments. The publication was discovered via Google News.

Why it matters: Consumer guidance on PHEV selection based on charging infrastructure access signals growing market segmentation that may influence where charge point operators prioritise urban installations. Understanding daily mileage patterns and charging location preferences helps CPOs and site hosts identify high value deployment opportunities for workplace and residential charging.

Plugit has acquired the EV charging business from Helen, though the announcement does not disclose financial terms or the number of charge points involved. The deal is positioned as an expansion move for Plugit. The transaction was reported by Fuel Cells Works via Google News.

Why it matters: The acquisition signals consolidation in the Nordic charging market and may create new procurement opportunities as Plugit integrates Helen's assets. Operators and suppliers should monitor whether the combined entity issues tenders for hardware upgrades or network expansion.

Jaguar Land Rover has moved its in-vehicle charging service away from Plugsurfing to DCS (Digital Charging Solutions). The switch affects JLR drivers globally who access public charging networks through the vehicle's integrated payment and roaming platform.

Why it matters: The move signals a shift in OEM roaming partnerships and may influence which charge point operators prioritise integration with DCS to retain access to JLR's customer base. Procurement teams should monitor whether similar manufacturer migrations follow, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for eMSP platforms.

Volvo Car AB markets the V60 Recharge as a midsize premium estate with a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0 litre petrol engine and a rear-axle electric motor. The latest T8 variant delivers up to around 350 hp and offers an electric-only range of up to roughly 88 kilometres on WLTP, with a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery that preserves cargo space. Charging at home on an AC wallbox typically takes several hours, with Volvo noting most owners plug in overnight.

Why it matters: The V60 Recharge underscores demand for home and workplace AC charging infrastructure as plug-in hybrids become a bridge technology in the premium segment. Fleet and residential charging operators should note the overnight charging pattern Volvo highlights, which shapes utilisation profiles for lower-power AC installations.

The government will introduce an Electric Vehicle Excise Duty system from April 2028, charging EV drivers 3p per mile and plug-in hybrids 1.5p per mile based on annual odometer readings. Following a consultation with over 5,000 responses, the scheme will apply to electric cars but exempt electric vans, with rates set at roughly half the equivalent fuel duty paid by petrol drivers. The mileage-based charge will run alongside existing road tax to replace fuel duty revenue as motorists switch to electric vehicles.

Why it matters: The new tax structure will affect total cost of ownership calculations for fleet operators and workplace charging schemes from 2028, potentially influencing procurement decisions for electric vehicles and the business case for charging infrastructure investments. CPOs serving commercial fleets may need to adjust pricing models and customer communications as operating costs for electric vehicles shift from fuel savings to mileage-based taxation.

Aegis Energy has signed a three year commercial partnership with Corpay, enabling Allstar fleet customers to charge at its network of sites designed for larger commercial vehicles, either via advance booking or plug and go. The agreement supports Allstar's Commercial Charging Payment Network rollout and will give Corpay customers access to Aegis Energy's expanding UK infrastructure, which targets 30 hubs by 2030. Aegis Energy positions the network as bridging the gap between public charging and private depot infrastructure for fleets transitioning to electric vehicles.

Why it matters: The partnership expands commercial fleet access to purpose built charging infrastructure without requiring operators to invest in their own depot estates, while Aegis Energy secures a major fleet payment partner ahead of its planned 30 site rollout by 2030. For procurement teams, the deal signals growing interoperability between fleet payment platforms and semi private charging networks tailored to heavier vehicle classes.

Test equipment maker Chroma has introduced the Chroma 8000 EV and EVSE automated test system, designed for simultaneous multi-connector testing of DC charging equipment, EV compatibility validation and liquid-cooled high-current charging tests. Paired with the Chroma 80713 simulator, the system supports testing against both ISO 15118-2 and ISO 15118-20 requirements, enabling interoperability and communication protocol validation across both versions of the standard. ISO 15118-20 extends the mainstream ISO 15118-2 framework with support for Plug and Charge, wireless power transfer, bidirectional power transfer, Megawatt Charging System applications, Dynamic and Scheduled charging modes, and Transport Layer Security 1.3.

Why it matters: The system addresses critical testing needs for next-generation charging infrastructure, including liquid-cooled high-power charging and bidirectional capabilities that enable vehicle-to-grid services. For CPOs and equipment procurers, validated ISO 15118-20 compliance ensures interoperability with emerging EV models and grid-responsive charging strategies.

New heavy goods vehicle registrations in the UK fell 14.7% to 8,687 units in the second quarter of 2026, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Zero emission HGV uptake rose 4.7% in the quarter, lifting market share from 0.8% to 1.0% year on year, though first half volumes dropped 6.6% compared with 2025 when ZEHID funding supported adoption. The SMMT cited higher vehicle costs, long grid connection waits and limited public charging as barriers, despite support from the Plug In Truck Grant, Depot Charging Scheme and ZEHID programme.

Why it matters: The modest rise in zero emission share to 1.0% underscores the infrastructure and grid connection bottlenecks that CPOs and depot planners must address to unlock fleet electrification at scale. Faster depot approvals and a national charging strategy remain critical to building operator confidence and accelerating procurement of electric HGVs.