Steve Birkett & Walter Schulze

Grid Connections

Summary
In this episode of the Grid Connections podcast, Chase, Steve Birkett, and Walter Schulze discuss the latest perceptions around EV sales numbers and the challenges dealerships face in selling electric vehicles. They also explore the ongoing rollout of EV charging infrastructure across the country and the tactics charge point operators use to meet various use cases. The conversation highlights the continued growth of the EV market and the importance of dealership engagement and education in promoting EV adoption. They also touch on the need for traditional auto OEMs to improve the buying experience and the role of incentives in driving EV sales. The conversation discusses the progress and challenges of various electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, including Electrify America, EVgo, and Pilot Flying J. It highlights the improvements in reliability and equipment upgrades that have been made by these networks over the years. The conversation also touches on the disbursement of funds from programs like VW Dieselgate and NEVI, which are being used to expand EV charging infrastructure. The importance of convenience stores and their potential as charging locations is emphasized, as they provide amenities and safety for EV drivers. The ideal layout and power capacity of charging stations are also discussed.

Takeaways

• The EV market continues to grow, despite short-term fluctuations in sales numbers.
• Dealerships play a crucial role in promoting EV adoption, but many face challenges in selling electric vehicles.
• The rollout of EV charging infrastructure is ongoing, with new developments and partnerships being announced.
• Traditional auto OEMs need to improve the buying experience for EVs and educate their salespeople about electric vehicles.
• Incentives, such as tax credits, can be powerful sales tools for promoting EVs. Electrify America and EVgo have made significant improvements in reliability and equipment upgrades over the years.
• Funds from programs like VW Dieselgate and NEVI are being used to expand EV charging infrastructure.
• Convenience stores, such as Pilot Flying J, are ideal locations for EV charging due to their existing amenities and safety measures.
• The ideal layout and power capacity of charging stations depend on the location and purpose, with fast charging hubs being suitable for road trips and level 2 chargers being beneficial for longer stays.
• Commercial-specific charging options and dedicated charging stations for ride-sharing services can help alleviate congestion at public charging stations.

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Keywords
EV sales, dealership challenges, EV charging infrastructure, charge point operators, EV market growth, dealership engagement, buying experience, incentives, EV charging networks, Electrify America, EVgo, Pilot Flying J, reliability, equipment upgrades, VW Dieselgate funds, NEVI funding, convenience stores, ideal charging station layout, power capacity