Retail Giants Like Walmart Are the Perfect Charging Hubs
As electric vehicles grow in popularity, finding the best places for charging stations is a hot topic. Walmart and other major retailers could be the ultimate solution. Unlike gas stations, where you wait with little to do, shopping at Walmart while your EV charges for 30 minutes makes perfect sense. With thousands of locations nationwide, Walmart has the potential to become a major player in the EV charging space.
Why Are Some EV Chargers in Prime Parking Spots?
Many retailers place EV chargers close to store entrances, making them easy to access. However, this can lead to misuse—non-EV drivers take the spots, or some EV owners park and forget without actively charging. Some argue that chargers should be moved further back in the lot to encourage only those who genuinely need them. Others suggest a balance—close enough to be convenient, but far enough to prevent misuse.
The Cost of Installing EV Chargers
One major reason chargers are often near buildings is installation cost. Retailers tap into existing power infrastructure to minimize cable runs and avoid major parking lot renovations. Extending power further back in a lot can increase costs significantly. Some locations, like ski resorts, face additional challenges, such as harsh weather conditions making long cable runs difficult.
Could Walmart Become the Next Big Charging Network?
With over 5,000 stores and locations within 10 miles of 90% of Americans, Walmart has the reach to transform EV charging accessibility. Some believe it could even rival Tesla’s Supercharger network. If Walmart invests wisely in charger placement and pricing, it could reshape the EV charging experience by combining shopping and charging into one seamless trip.
The Future of Retail-Based EV Charging
Retailers like Walmart and Target are in a prime position to lead the EV charging revolution. But to maximize impact, they need to learn from past mistakes—ensuring chargers are accessible, functional, and properly located. Could shopping centers soon replace gas stations as the go-to place for EV charging?
