Welcome to another edition of EV News Rewind!

This month, we’ll explore several important changes in state legislation affecting EV drivers, new data revealing the growing need for nationwide EV charging infrastructure, and retail partnerships aiming to meet that increasing demand before wrapping up with an exciting electric fleet expansion from Domino’s.

Oklahoma legislation protects businesses investing in EV chargers

Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt recently signed a new law into action designed to level the playing field between public utilities and private businesses looking to provide EV charging stations to customers.

The Charge Ahead Partnership (CAP), a nationwide coalition of businesses that supports the development of EV charging infrastructure, spoke up in support of the law. 

Jay Smith, the Executive Director of CAP stated, “Now is the time to develop policies that attract private investment in the EV charging business so that charging an electric vehicle is as easy as refilling your car with gas. A level playing field that incentivizes competition and innovation is the fastest route toward that vision becoming a reality.”

We love to see states take actions like this to expand EV accessibility to all!

Changes in alternative fuels tax for PA EV drivers

In early June, the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee approved a bill that would replace the alternative fuels tax for noncommercial EV drivers with a $290 flat fee. Drivers can also pay the fee in monthly installments of a little over $24.

The alternative fuels tax exists to ensure that drivers who use alternative fuels like electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen contribute to construction and maintenance costs for public roadways.

Senator Greg Rothman, who proposed the legislation, explained that many noncommercial EV drivers don’t know about the alternative fuels tax; thus, the bill could generate up to an additional $15 million annually based on the number of PA EV drivers.

Illinois governor signs right-to-charge law

For those living in urban areas, especially apartments or other multi-unit dwellings, finding a convenient place to charge up your EV can be a hassle. 

Various states, including New York, Florida, and Colorado, have begun to pass right-to-charge acts that combat this issue.

This month, Illinois joined the effort as Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill that will require new and existing houses, apartments, and condos to wire all parking spots to support EV chargers.

The change should break down another barrier of ownership for potential EV drivers by providing more convenient and reliable charging across communities.

NREL study estimates nationwide EV charging needs through 2030

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is a federal research facility that drives the development and deployment of renewable energy sources. 

Recently, NREL released The 2030 National Charging Network: Estimating U.S. Light-Duty Demand for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure. The document assesses the expansion necessary in the nationwide charging network to accommodate the United States’s transition to EVs.

According to the data provided by the NREL, the U.S. charging network will need a whopping 28 million charging ports by 2030 to meet the demands of the projected number of EVs (33 million).

The 28 million additional charging ports will need to include:

• Public fast charging ports.
• Public Level 2 charging ports.
• Private Level 1 and 2 charging ports.

Wallbox partners with Costco to meet EV charging demands

Wallbox has set itself up to contribute to the growing demand for EV chargers by launching a partnership with Costco. The company is currently one of the leading providers of global EV charging solutions, including Pulsar Plus, which will now be sold online and in stores at Costco locations across the United States.

The Pulsar Plus EV charger provides level 2 charging at home for EV drivers and includes a variety of features such as charge scheduling, voice control, and flexible amperage settings.

The collaboration should make at home charging easier for many Americans who might not have consistent access to public EV charging options.

Domino’s ramps up delivery electrification with over 1,000 new EVs

Domino’s has made huge strides on its emissions promises this year. As of June 28, 2023, the company met its year-end goal of deploying at least 800 Chevrolet Bolts in its delivery fleet.

With that landmark accomplished, Domino’s has set its sight on an even higher goal. The pledge has now increased to 1,100 Chevrolet Bolts making deliveries across the United States by the end of the year.

Unfortunately, GM also announced the discontinuation of the Bolt earlier this year. Domino’s will most likely need to switch to another electric model if the company wishes to continue expanding its EV fleet over the next few years. Which EV model do YOU think would help Domino’s deliver pizzas quickly and sustainably? Let us know on social media!

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