NRG eVgo already claims to have more electric-car DC fast-charging stations than any other public network, and now the company is making sure its sites stay usable for years to come.
As it continues to expand its network of stations, NRG is also increasing their output in anticipation of future charging demands.
While other networks continue to roll out DC fast-charging stations in the 20-kilowatt range, the eVgo network currently has no stations below 44 kW.
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“The very near future suggests that anything below 50 kW” will not be considered fast charging, eVgo’s Brendan Jones told Charged EVs in a recent interview.
Jones recently joined NRG eVgo after coordinating Nissan’s electric car efforts since before the launch of the Leaf in December 2010.
Among other things, he worked with Nissan dealers and various public and private entities to roll out DC fast-charging stations in support of the car.
Nissan Leaf at eVgo Freedom Station Daly City, CaliforniaJones said NRG eVgo is “laying the groundwork” for future stations that will deliver 100 kW, claiming the company’s stations are designed to adapt to changes in standards and technology.
That’s a milestone already reached by Tesla with its Supercharger stations, which are only compatible with the company’s electric cars.
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NRG eVgo operates stations with both the CHAdeMO standard used by the Leaf, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, and Kia Soul, and the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) preferred by the majority of U.S. and German carmakers.
So far, the company has focused primarily on urban areas, but as carmakers begin selling more 200-mile electric cars, it plans to broaden its footprint.
Chevrolet Bolt EV concept, 2015 Detroit Auto ShowThe Chevrolet Bolt EV and Tesla Model 3 are both expected to arrive in 2017 with 200-mile ranges, and the second-generation Nissan Leaf will debut around the same time with increased range compared to the current model.
Anticipating this, NRG eVgo plans to shift its focus to developing charging infrastructure that facilitates easier intercity driving.
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For the most part, only Tesla drivers currently benefit from significant fast-charging infrastructure outside urban areas.
Expanding NRG eVgo’s network in this way could help boost the appeal of a wider range of electric cars.
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