The electrification of the automotive world is moving full steam ahead, and now, General Motors (GM) is teaming up with EVgo to make it even more convenient for electric vehicle (EV) drivers to charge on the go. The latest collaboration between the American auto giant and one of the largest EV charging networks in the U.S. aims to build 400 ultra-fast DC chargers nationwide. These chargers, dubbed “flagship destinations,” will boast an impressive array of features, offering convenience and accessibility that could finally begin to rival that of traditional gas stations.

A Step Towards Convenience: Almost Like a Gas Station

At Automotive Addicts, we’ve long said that for EV charging infrastructure to truly meet the needs of today’s drivers, charging stations need to emulate the traditional gas station model—complete with canopy covers and on-site amenities. Thankfully, GM and EVgo are taking a step in that direction with these new flagship destinations.

While these new locations are individual stalls rather than full-scale charging stations, the design and offerings are aimed at providing a gas station-like experience. Most sites will have up to 20 ultra-fast 350-kilowatt DC charging stalls, providing not only speed but also a comfortable and convenient charging environment. You can expect proper lighting, canopies, security cameras, and, perhaps most importantly, amenities like dining spots and coffee shops nearby—perfect for those quick pit stops or longer waits during a full charge.

Strategic Locations: Coast to Coast Coverage

Although we don’t know the exact addresses just yet, the chargers are slated to be placed in strategic metropolitan areas, spanning states such as Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New York, and Texas. These are some of the busiest driving corridors in the U.S., which will help EV drivers find fast charging solutions during long road trips or daily commutes. It’s all part of an effort to reduce range anxiety and create a network that’s accessible across the country.

The stalls will be co-branded with EVgo and GM Energy, the automaker’s energy management arm, showcasing the strength of their collaboration. The first of these “flagship destinations” is set to open next year, bringing with it the promise of faster, more reliable charging options for EV drivers.

Cutting-Edge Construction for Faster Deployment

One of the key innovations behind these new charging stations is EVgo’s use of prefabrication, which significantly reduces both cost and installation time. These pre-built units come equipped with everything needed for a fully operational charging stall, all mounted on a metal base plate that can be transported directly from the factory to the site. This approach can cut the cost of a new station by 15% and reduce deployment time by 50%, making it a game-changer in the fast-paced world of EV infrastructure development.

Continuing a Strong Partnership: GM and EVgo

This isn’t GM and EVgo’s first rodeo. The two companies have already been collaborating on a massive effort to install nearly 3,000 DC fast chargers across metropolitan areas. The milestone 1,000th stall was celebrated in August 2023, and they expect to reach the 2,000th by the end of this year. The addition of these new 400 ultra-fast stalls is just another step toward a cleaner, more electrified future.

With EV sales ramping up, the demand for reliable and fast charging options is becoming increasingly critical. GM and EVgo are rising to the challenge by offering a solution that not only addresses speed but also the comfort and convenience that drivers expect from a traditional gas station experience.

At Automotive Addicts, we’re excited to see this evolution in EV charging infrastructure. As we’ve highlighted in the past, making EV chargers more like gas stations—complete with canopies and amenities—could be the key to widespread adoption. This latest initiative from GM and EVgo looks like a significant step in the right direction. We’re eager to see how it unfolds and how quickly the U.S. charging landscape changes as these flagship destinations start to open across the country.