Costco is making a bold return to EV infrastructure by teaming up with Electrify America. The partnership will bring ultra-fast 350-kW DC chargers to five U.S. locations. Initial sites include Clermont, FL, and Denver, CO, with 6 chargers each, alongside three California stores. Notably, Loomis will host 14 chargers, while Pleasanton and Sacramento will each get 10. These stations, linked to Electrify America’s network, allow payment and location tracking via their app, with pricing controlled by Costco.
A Comeback Decades in the Making
Costco first explored EV charging in the 1990s, offering Level 2 chargers at select sites. However, those stations were removed by 2012. This fresh rollout signifies a renewed commitment to sustainability and the growing EV market.
Costco’s Electric Ambitions Keep Growing
In October, Costco launched its first branded fast charger in Ridgefield, WA, installed by Electric Era in record time. Whether this partnership signals exclusivity with Electrify America or leaves room for other players, it’s clear Costco is stepping up. The retailer’s EV-friendly initiatives also extend to deals on plug-in vehicles, boosting its appeal among eco-conscious shoppers.
The Bigger Picture: Retail Giants Join the EV Race
Costco’s move is timely as Walmart pivots to its own EV charging network, leaving a gap in Electrify America’s retail partnerships. This collaboration could redefine Costco as a key player in EV infrastructure, especially as it expands EV-related deals, including a new Hyundai-Amazon partnership offering direct car purchases in 48 cities.
Costco’s reentry into the charging space is a win for EV drivers and a signal that big-box retailers see the electrification wave as here to stay.
This news positions Costco as a forward-thinking player in the EV space. Don’t miss the chance to plug in at your nearest location soon!
