BP TravelCenters of America Charging Hub Opens In Florida – CleanTechnica

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BP’s EV charging arm, bp pulse, has just opened a new electric vehicle charging hub at a TravelCenters of America (TA) in Jacksonville, Florida. EV charging networks are getting better every day.

Electrifying bp pulse’s Vast US Network

This bp pulse charging hub is just the first of what will be 40 across the country. It includes 12 high-power ultrafast charging bays — with up to 400 kW of power available at each of them.

This is what is needed across the country — more frequent and more reliable charging stations right off of the interstate. While gas stations may not seem like the most ideal locations for EV chargers, the fact is these places already have good locations and have all the goodies and facilities people driving a long distance want — and this is actually what they make money on. But I’ll come back to that.

Across 46 US states, bp has 8,000 retail locations. Imagine the potential to grow EV charging access across the country. We will go way beyond 40. Hopefully sooner than later.

“As we expand our EV charging network in the US, I am thrilled to unveil our first of many hubs at TA locations. These sites are strategically located across key highway corridors that provide our customers with enroute charging when and where they need it most, while offering convenient amenities, like restaurants and restrooms,” said Sujay Sharma, CEO of bp pulse Americas.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to bring new forms of energy to our customers as we support their changing mobility needs, while leveraging the best of bp and TA, and ultimately showcasing bp’s transformation to an integrated energy company. While this is significant, to our loyal customers and guests, rest assured TA will continue to provide the same safe and reliable fueling options it has offered for over 50 years, regardless of the type of fuel,” said Debi Boffa, CEO of TravelCenters of America.

bp Retail & Restaurant Amenities

At these initial bp pulse sites getting EV ultrafast chargers, customers will be able to find Subways, Popeyes, convenience stores, WiFi, and ATMs.

The one thing I have said for years is that providers of EV chargers have enormous potential. We all know that gas stations don’t make money selling gas — they make money selling soft drinks, sandwiches, chips, candy bars, coffee, etc. EV charging stations just amp up that potential (pun slightly intended). EV drivers have to wait a bit longer to charge, and they don’t need to stand by the car as fuel is pumped in. With extra time at the stop, they are more likely to buy more. Also, if they really expect to be there for 30–45 minutes, perhaps you can entice them and really pull them into spending more by designing a higher quality restaurant area, a nicer coffee bar or coffee shop, some higher quality retail sections — heck, even a spa or massage parlor! Get creative, and take advantage of the bigger, broader opportunities EV drivers are giving you. It’s shocking to me how little this is done.

bp pulse EV Charging Globally

Across the world (well, mostly in Europe so far), bp pulse is growing its EV charger presence. It now has 37,500 EV charging bays worldwide. The aim is to have 100,000 by 2030. That seems like a tame goal considering where the company already is today and where the industry is going. I expect the target will increase over time.

bp wants to make money, whether it’s coming from gas car drivers or EV drivers. I expect to see more investment and enthusiasm for EV charging hubs year after year as the dollar signs appear bigger and bigger in front of executives’ eyes.