While the convenience of home charging caters to most electric vehicle (EV) owners, access to a reliable public charging network is indispensable for truly embracing EV ownership. Whether you’re on a long road trip, running errands around town, or live in an apartment without dedicated charging, knowing where to find the Best Electric Vehicle Charging Station can significantly enhance your EV experience.
Fortunately, the infrastructure for public EV charging is expanding rapidly. The U.S. Department of Energy reports over 22,000 charging stations nationwide, boasting more than 68,800 individual connectors. California leads the charge with over 22,000 stations, reflecting its strong EV market, followed by Florida, Texas, and New York.
However, the majority of public chargers are Level 2 (240-volt) stations. While perfect for topping off your battery during shopping trips or overnight stays at hotels, Level 2 chargers typically require several hours to fully charge an EV. Currently, only about 16% are Level 3 DC Fast Charging stations. These fast chargers are crucial for long-distance travel, capable of charging an EV battery to around 75% in approximately 30 minutes.
The future of public EV charging is bright, with significant investments being made in fast-charging infrastructure. Electrify America has installed fast-charging stations at over 120 Walmart locations across 34 states, strategically located near major highways. General Motors is partnering with Bechtel to develop a vast network of fast-charging stations, particularly targeting densely populated urban areas. Porsche is also investing in a network of 500 rapid charging stations in North America to support its Taycan EV, promising around 180 miles of range in just nine minutes of charging.
For EV owners who plan to utilize public charging, joining an EV charging network is highly recommended. While some Level 2 chargers are free, most networks charge fees, either per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or per minute of charging. Membership in a network simplifies payment and often offers cost savings through subscription plans or discounted rates. Network apps are invaluable tools, allowing you to locate nearby stations, check charger types and availability, and initiate charging sessions directly from your smartphone.
Choosing the right EV charging network depends on several factors, including your location, travel habits, and your EV’s charging port type – either CHAdeMO (common in Asian vehicles) or SAE Combo (used by many European and domestic automakers). Many Level 3 chargers are equipped with both connector types. ChargePoint is the largest network in the U.S., but regional networks may be more prevalent in certain areas. For extensive public charging needs or road trips, consider registering with multiple networks. To simplify access, ChargePoint has partnered with EVgo and Electrify America, enabling users to access chargers from these networks with a single account.
Online resources like ChargeHub.com, PlugShare.com, and PlugInAmerica.org, along with individual network websites and apps, provide detailed information on station locations and connector types.
Let’s delve into some of the leading EV charging networks in the U.S. to help you determine the best electric vehicle charging station options for your needs:
Blink Charging Station Network
Operated by Car Charging Group, Inc., Blink operates over 3,275 public charging stations across the U.S., offering both Level 2 and Level 3 options. While membership isn’t mandatory, Blink members often benefit from reduced charging costs. Level 2 charging costs range from $0.39 to $0.79 per kWh or $0.04 to $0.06 per minute, while Level 3 fast charging is priced between $0.49 and $0.69 per kWh or $6.99 to $9.99 per session. Blink provides a solid network for both regular Level 2 charging and faster top-ups when needed.
ChargePoint Charging Station Network
ChargePoint, headquartered in California, stands as the largest EV charging network in the U.S., boasting over 68,000 charging locations, including 1,500 DC Fast Charging stations. ChargePoint’s pricing structure is unique, as station owners (like retailers) set their own rates. Many ChargePoint stations are even free, with the property owner covering the electricity costs as a customer perk. Registration is free and charging can be activated via a ChargePoint card, smartphone app, or tap-to-charge enabled phones. For paid stations, ChargePoint pre-charges $10 to your credit card upon your first use and deducts charging fees from this balance, automatically reloading $10 when the balance drops below $5. ChargePoint’s extensive network and flexible pricing model make it a widely accessible and convenient option.
Electrify America Charging Station Network
Electrify America, a Volkswagen-owned network created as part of the diesel emissions settlement, is aggressively expanding its fast-charging infrastructure. By the end of the year, Electrify America aims to have 480 fast charging stations in 17 metro areas across 42 states, with stations strategically placed no more than 70 miles apart. Membership is optional, but the “Pass+” plan offers discounted rates. Charging costs are per-minute based and vary by location and your EV’s maximum charging power. In California, for instance, standard rates are $0.99/minute for 350kW, $0.69/minute for 125kW, and $0.25/minute for 75kW, plus a $1 session fee. The Pass+ plan, for a $4 monthly fee, reduces these rates to $0.70/minute (350kW), $0.50/minute (125kW), and $0.18/minute (75kW). A $0.40/minute idle fee applies if your EV remains connected for over 10 minutes after charging ends, encouraging efficient charger use. Electrify America is a strong choice for long-distance EV travel thanks to its focus on high-speed DC fast charging and growing national presence.
EVgo Charging Station Network
EVgo, based in Tennessee, operates over 1,200 DC fast chargers across 34 states. Subscriptions are not required, but EVgo members enjoy discounted Level 3 charging rates. Pay-as-you-go sessions are capped at 45 minutes, while members can charge for up to 60 minutes between 8 pm and 6 am. Fast charging rates are region-specific; in Los Angeles, CA, for example, it’s $0.27/minute for non-members and $0.23/minute for members. Membership costs $7.99 per month and includes 34 minutes of fast charging credit. Level 2 charging is consistently priced at $1.50 per hour for both members and non-members. EVgo provides a reliable fast-charging option, particularly in urban areas where they have a strong presence.
Tesla Supercharger Network
Tesla’s Supercharger network is exclusively designed for Tesla vehicles. Globally, Tesla operates 1,604 stations with 14,081 Superchargers at public locations and Tesla dealerships. No membership is needed, and Tesla vehicles use a proprietary connector, though adapters are available for SAE chargers. Charging costs vary by location and other factors, averaging around $0.28 per kWh. In areas where time-based billing is used, it’s $0.13/minute below 60kW and $0.26/minute above 60kW. Tesla has recently reintroduced free unlimited Supercharging for new Model S and Model X purchases in certain markets. For Tesla owners, the Supercharger network offers unparalleled convenience and reliability, specifically optimized for their vehicles.
Volta Charging Station Network
Volta, based in San Francisco, differentiates itself by offering free Level 2 charging at over 700 stations in 10 states. Volta installs its chargers near retail locations like Whole Foods, Macy’s, and Saks, covering electricity costs through revenue from sponsored advertisements displayed on the charging unit screens. With no membership requirements and free charging, Volta provides an attractive option for Level 2 charging while you shop, dine, or run errands, making it a unique player in the EV charging landscape.
Choosing the best electric vehicle charging station ultimately depends on your individual driving needs, EV model, and location. Consider factors like network coverage in your area and along your frequently traveled routes, the availability of fast charging options if you often take longer trips, and the pricing structures of different networks. Utilizing network apps and online resources to research station locations and real-time availability will further refine your choice. By understanding the strengths of each network, you can confidently select the best electric vehicle charging station solutions to power your EV lifestyle.
