Move over, coffee shops—there’s a new “third place” in town, and it’s got power in more ways than one. As electric vehicles (EVs) cruise into the mainstream, charging stations are transforming from quick pit stops to fully loaded destinations. With partnerships popping up between charging companies, grocery stores, coffee spots, and retail tech hubs, your next charging session might just be the most productive part of your day.
Here’s the scoop on why these stations are quickly becoming the ultimate hangout spot.
ICYMI, a “third place” is that go-to spot between home and work. Think your favorite café, the gym, or a cozy bookstore. EV charging stations are stepping into this role by turning charging time into something you look forward to—complete with perks, retail therapy, and even productivity boosts. With partnerships across various sectors, these new-age charging hubs are getting creative, making charging an experience rather than a wait.
And the innovative examples popping up? Game-changers.
For grocery stores, teaming up with EV chargers is a no-brainer. Imagine plugging in at your local grocery store, picking up everything on your list, and having a full charge by the time you’re done. Stores like Kroger and EVgo have partnered to install fast chargers in their parking lots, and Whole Foods has connected with Electrify America for stations across select locations. While you shop for dinner, your EV gets a top-off.
Even cooler: Albertsons recently piloted a project with Volta Charging, which features digital ad displays on chargers that fund free charging sessions for drivers. So not only do you get your groceries, but in some cases, you get a charge on the house, too.
Charging sessions are going social, with coffee spots turning “charge and chill” into a thing. Starbucks has partnered with Mercedes to place charging stations right at their stores. Imagine it: plug in, grab a flat white, and settle in for a cozy break. You’re not just charging your car; you’re recharging yourself.
Another game-changer? IKEA is rolling out EV charging stations at its stores as part of its green initiative. With their iconic Swedish meatballs in reach, drivers can shop around and enjoy a meal while their EV juices up.
Tech hubs are also in on the action. Costco, Target and Walmart have explored chargers at select locations, giving customers a chance to browse the latest gadgets while topping up. For tech lovers, this is a win-win that brings shopping and charging together seamlessly.
Auto dealerships are joining the EV hangout trend too. Charging stations outside dealerships not only keep their own EV fleets charged but invite EV owners (and curious shoppers) to drop by, charge up, and maybe test drive the latest models. Mercedes-Benz recently launched a high-end charging station concept featuring upscale lounges and coffee bars for customers who value a premium experience. Meanwhile, Hyundai has plans to install chargers that connect directly to their apps as well as a Hyundai Home platform, extending the value of EV living across multiple points of value.
But back to dealerships, this isn’t just about charging—it’s about creating an entire ecosystem where drivers feel at home and engaged with the brand.
Some locations are taking EV charging innovation even further. SoFi Stadium in LA, home to the Rams and Chargers, recently installed EV chargers to serve fans attending events. Here’s the beauty: these chargers are backed by solar power. So while fans catch the big game, their EVs are charging sustainably. This type of setup not only elevates the game-day experience but also opens the door for entertainment venues everywhere to cater to eco-conscious fans.
If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you’ll love this one. Rivian is on a mission to bring EV chargers to national parks, adding stations in some of the country’s most scenic locations. Imagine driving to the Grand Canyon, taking a hike, and coming back to a charged vehicle—all without leaving nature behind. These chargers are part of a broader initiative to make outdoor experiences EV-friendly, so road trips to remote spots don’t come with range anxiety.
Charging stations are officially more than places to power up—they’re the next hangout spots where you can shop, sip, work, and relax. Whether you’re popping into the grocery store, grabbing coffee, or scouting the latest tech, charging is evolving to fit seamlessly into everyday life. Plus, by cutting down the “wait time” stigma, these charging hubs are making EV ownership an even easier choice for the masses.
So, plug in, relax, and enjoy the perks of America’s newest favorite hangout spot—because charging up has never looked (or felt) this good.
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Published October 27, 2024 2:52PM
Eveelife is an eco-oriented lifestyle platform that helps consumers make more purposeful choices about how they live and what they consume. We do it by curating content and products that help them make more conscious, carbon-free choices while amplifying their EV ownership experience.
