As the automotive industry continues its monumental shift to electrification, the charging infrastructure to keep those cars moving in the U.S. is clearly lacking. However, General Motors is seeking to alleviate the issue as it announced plans to double the number of public Level 2 electric car chargers in the United States by 2026. According to the U.S Energy Department, this move by GM will double the number of available chargers nationwide.

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Many EV Owners Still Don't Have Access to Charging Stations

GM EVGo
GM 

According to a study by Morning Consult, up to 83% of car owners earning $50,000 and below don’t have dedicated charging stations for their EVs despite having a huge interest in these vehicles. They depend on is what’s called “opportunity charging,” or the use of public charging stations. But in many areas, the supply of these chargers doesn't meet demand, or at least it's unlikely as more make the switch to EVs. GM is working on expanding its charging infrastructure and making it faster, more convenient, and simple for customers to charge their electric vehicles. The aim is to provide customers with access to more than 40,000 chargers across the country. The chargers will feature a speed of up to 19.2 kW, which is three times faster than the commonly available level 2 chargers.

GM's commitment includes installing 5,000 new DC fast-charging sites and doubling Level 2 public chargers by 2026 at workplaces, apartment buildings, dealerships, and other public places. The locations identified are well-lit, accessible, and can allow at least two hours of dwell time for sufficient charging.

All the new Level 2 charging stations will center around GM dealerships, each allotted 10 chargers within 10 miles of the dealership. According to GM, 90% of the U.S population lives 10 miles from GM dealers, thus making the charging easily accessible for their customers. Those in rural or exurban areas can access the chargers at their convenience.

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More GM Dealers Are Enrolling In The Dealer Community Charging Program

Three Cars At EV Charging Station
GM

GM rolled out an initiative dubbed the Dealer Community Charging Program to enable them to easily expand their Level 2 charging stations. GM confirms that 1,000 of its 4,450 dealers have enrolled in this community initiative that aims to double the number of Level 2 electric vehicle chargers by 2026. While these charging stations will be for GM dealerships, all EV drivers, including those who are non-GM EV owners, will be able to access them.The automaker is also partnering with retail stores and restaurants so that people have a convenient place to wait while their electric cars are being charged.

GM will allow the dealers to decide on the pricing for using the chargers as they see fit. The dealers will also take care of the upkeep of the chargers and will own them. Giving full ownership to the dealers will allow GM to sidestep any potential liabilities that come with running public charging stations. Other responsibilities that dealers will have with these chargers include cable management, customer service, installation, maintenance, and warranty.

The Future Is Bright For Electric Vehicle Owners

GM EVGo
GM

GM has also launched the Ultium Charge 360 network, a program that will ensure customers' peace of mind while traveling. The program equips customers with access to all public chargers in the U.S regardless of the network provider and even covers charging costs at select locations. The $750 million investment towards charging infrastructure will make EV adoption easier and more appealing to customers, the brand says.