Convenience store chain 7-Eleven has ambitious plans for electric vehicle charging.
The company on Thursday announced 7Charge, an EV charging network that it aims to become one of the largest in North America. The plan includes DC fast charging stations at 7-Eleven locations in the United States and eventually Canada, with access through a proprietary app.
While reviewing the details, a 7-Eleven press release stated that the company “intends to build the largest and most compatible electric vehicle charging network of any retailer in North America.” and note that charging is already available at select 7-Eleven stores in California, Colorado, Florida, and Texas.
7-Eleven store front
Part of the emphasis on compatibility means offering both Combined Charging Standard (CCS) and CHAdeMO fast charging connector. However, the network will not support Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). Tesla owners will need a CCS . converter to charge at 7Charge sites.
According to 7-Eleven, pricing is determined by energy consumed (in kWh) and/or charging time, depending on state regulations. As with other EV charging networks, drivers are also required to move their cars as soon as charging is complete and may be charged additional fees if loitering at some locations, the company noted.
7-Eleven store front
Electric vehicle fast charging is mainly focused on highway routes, but 7-Eleven locations could be an opportunity for urban charging, which is lacking in many metro areas. The Biden administration is looking to fill some of these gaps with $2.5 billion community EV charging program.
Other retail chains are also looking to install EV fast chargers. taco bells recently announced plans to install fast charging at multiple locations, while General Motors and EVgo are forming a the toll network from coast to coast around the Pilot and Flying J locations. On a smaller scale, Starbucks is combining a charging network for road trips with Volvo.
