Tesla Expands Partnership with Target for Electric-Charging Stations
Electric vehicles are the hottest segment of the automotive industry. Everyone wants one. So far, almost one million electric vehicles have been sold nationally. The trend is just beginning however, as electric-vehicles become more convenient to use. The major holdup for many consumers has been inconvenient electric-charging.
Luckily, Target announced it is expanding its electric-charging program.
Target already has a little-known electric-charging program. That program is very limited. There are currently only 18 prototype charging stations. The stations are concentrated in a handful of states – California, Hawaii, Minnesota, North Carolina and Texas. The existing stations have been popular, but Target gave no intention of increasing their number.
Yesterday’s announcement was a surprise. Target announced the program will be expanded to 20 additional states, according to a corporate press-release. More than 600 electric-chargers will be installed in those new areas. Target has partnered with electric-charging pioneers Tesla, ChargePoint, and Electrify America for the new chargers.
Tesla will provide SuperChargers for many of the new installations. SuperChargers, of course, provide accelerated-charging capability. There are over 1,200 dedicated SuperCharger stations nationwide. Tesla has recently drawn criticism for having no activities at SuperCharger stations. Customers have demanded something to do while their vehicles are being charged. Tesla has struggled for ideas. Visionary Push reported a full-service, 50s-style diner Tesla will build at a Southern California SuperCharger station.
The Target partnership is nice fit for Tesla’s dilemma.
Target, meanwhile, is reacting to consumer demand for additional charging stations. A corporate representative explained: “Many guests tell us they love the environmental benefits [of electric-vehicles], but some hesitate to make the switch over worries about convenience.”
What’s more convenient than charging while shopping?
It would be great if there were other stores jumping on board. I have an electric car and I look for spots everywhere I go. Very few to be found. Excited to see this.