US-based DC fast-charging network Electrify America (EA) has just initiated a pilot program at its select charging stations, restricting electric vehicles to 85% state of charge (SoC) every session to cut congestion.
Electrify America limits charges to reduce wait times
EA announced the new Congestion Reduction Pilot at some of its charging stations in the United States on Monday.
According to the press release, the program aims to “reduce wait times and increase throughput” across EA’s DC fast-charging network nationwide.
As soon as the electric vehicle hits 85% SoC, the system will automatically stop the charging session. Owners will have only 10 minutes to drive their cars away from the charger to avoid idle fees.
The program will officially kick off in early July at 10 Electrify America locations throughout California. Since the state has a higher EV adoption rate than any other, it is likely to have more congested charging stations, too.
Coverage
Presented below are the Electrify America charging stations selected in the Congestion Reduction Pilot program:
- Plaza Del Sol (Station 200068) at 10982 Sherman Way, Burbank, California 91505
- Target T2328 (Station 200041) at 651 W Sepulveda Blvd, Carson, California 90745
- Ralphs 060 (Station 200046) at 1416 East Colorado St, Glendale, California 91205
- Bank of America Washington-Centinela CA9-160 (Station 200044) at 12316 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90066
- Bank of America LA Chinatown CA9-167 (Station 200070) at 850 N Broadway, Los Angeles, California 90012
- Vons 2598 (Station 200049) at 3233 Foothill Blvd, La Crescenta, California 91214
- Walmart Supercenter 2177 (Station 200144) at 3382 Murphy Canyon Road, San Diego California 92123
- Target T0767 (Station 200051) at 888 W Arrow Hwy, San Dimas, California 91773
- Target T1309 (Station 200047) at 14920 Raymer Street, Van Nuys, California, 91405
- Yorba Canyon Center (Station 200079) at 21580 1/2 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, California 92887
Expected outcome
The public electric vehicle charging experience in the US continues to be problematic for most drivers despite the significant increase in infrastructures compared to the early years of the EV transition.
The lack of sufficient and reliable electric vehicle chargers results in long lines at some of EA’s most trafficked sites.
These considered, EA expects the Congestion Reduction Pilot to speed up the movement of electric vehicles in its charging stations by limiting the SoC to only 85%.
EA noted that its customers’ feedback motivated the company to initiate this new pilot. It aims to consistently observe charging station performance and customer sentiment during the imposition period.
