Ranking the Biggest EV Charging Networks in the US

If you’re an electric vehicle owner, finding a reliable and efficient charging network is crucial. Fortunately, the United States has no shortage of options, with several of the biggest EV charging networks available across the country. In this article, we’ll be ranking the biggest EV charging networks in the US, based on the number of charging stations and the coverage area. So, if you’re looking for the biggest EV charging networks to power up your electric car, keep reading!

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Electrify America – We’re leading the charge of fast charging

As the largest DC fast charging network in the US, Electrify America is a popular choice for many EV owners. With compatibility for most EV models that use the industry-standard CCS charging connection. As well as CHAdeMO for some models like the Nissan Leaf. And the ability for Tesla vehicles to connect using a CCS adapter. Electrify America offers accessibility and convenience to a wide range of EV owners.

Electrify America stations are also among the fastest available, with charging speeds of up to 350kW per hour. This means that for vehicles capable of charging at over 100kW, charge times can be as short as half an hour or less. With more EV models arriving that can charge at even faster speeds. Electrify America is poised to become an even more essential player among the biggest EV charging networks in the country.

The biggest EV charging network in the US, Electrify America, is known for strategically placing charging stations near Interstate exits. And in the parking lots of partnering stores such as Walmart or Sheetz. This makes it easy for EV owners to access and use their charging stations while on the go.

To initiate and pay for charging, Electrify America offers an app that can be downloaded and used on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can use a credit card to pay for charging. However, Nissan Leaf owners should be aware that only one station at each location comes with a CHAdeMO port, which could potentially create wait times if another car is occupying the station.

Despite this, Electrify America remains a top choice among the biggest EV charging networks in the country for its wide compatibility, fast charging speeds, and convenient placement of charging stations.

Tesla Superchargers – Freedom to Travel

Tesla’s Supercharger network, the largest among the biggest EV charging networks in the US, boasts a higher density of charging stations compared to Electrify America. However, the network is currently limited to Tesla vehicles only. Despite Tesla being the largest seller of EVs in the country.

One of the Supercharger network’s standout features is its smooth and convenient charging experience. With Tesla already having your payment information, simply plugging in your car automatically initiates the charging process. This streamlined process is even smoother than using a traditional gas pump. However, non-Tesla EV owners do not have the option to charge at Supercharger stations without a Tesla account, which may not be appealing to those concerned about privacy.

Despite this limitation, Tesla’s Supercharger network remains a popular choice among Tesla owners. And continues to be one of the biggest EV charging networks in the US. Tesla Superchargers have a lower max speed than Electrify America’s, but this is mostly theoretical at the moment. The fastest Superchargers can technically reach 300kW but are capped at 250kW, still faster than most cars on the road.

Tesla is testing the possibility of opening up their Supercharger network to non-Tesla vehicles. Trials are being conducted outside the US, and if successful, it would be a significant step toward a future where any EV capable of fast charging can charge at any DC fast charging station.

EVgo – Convenient, Reliable, Affordable

DC fast charging isn’t just for road trips. For many who can’t charge at home, fast chargers located around town are necessary. EVgo is America’s biggest DC fast charging network, serving this demand.

EVgo stations typically charge at around 50kW, taking about an hour to reach 80%. It’s a slow charge for a road trip but convenient when shopping or dining out. Some vehicles, like the Chevy Bolt, charge as fast as their vehicle can handle, making little difference whether charging at Electrify America or EVgo.

EVgo offers an app and the option of swiping a credit card. It’s the most accommodating network for cars with a CHAdeMO port, with each station equipped with one CCS and one CHAdeMO plug. That means four potential places to charge if there are four stations at a charging location, even if you own a Nissan Leaf.

ChargePoint – Comprehensive charging for every

ChargePoint boasts the biggest EV charging network in the US. But it’s primarily composed of Level 2 chargers that provide around 6.6kW of power. Offering around 25 miles of range per hour. These chargers can be found at businesses, apartment complexes, hotels, parks, and public libraries, where drivers can leave their cars to charge for several hours.

While ChargePoint has fewer DC fast charging stations compared to other networks like Electrify America and Tesla. There are some available with speeds ranging from 24kW to 125kW. To locate these fast chargers, users will need to filter out the Level 2 chargers that dominate the network using the ChargePoint app or website.

Blink – We Design, Manufacture, Own and Operate EV Charging Stations

Blink is one of the largest charging networks in the US, mostly offering Level 2 chargers that provide around 25 miles of range per hour. You can find Blink chargers at hotels, businesses, and other destinations. With the acquisition of SemaConnect, Blink substantially increased its footprint across the country.

There are a few DC fast chargers available on the Blink network, but options are limited. Blink fast chargers are relatively rare and provide around 50kW of power.

Blink is the type of charging network you’re more likely to stumble across than actively seek out. It’s often the only charging option available at the destination you’re visiting. If you already have the Blink app installed, you’re good to go.