Starbucks, Volvo test electric vehicle charging network at coffee giant’s stores
Volvo will install up to 60 Volvo-branded ChargePoint DC fast chargers at 15 Starbucks locations along a 1,350-mile route from the Denver area to the coffee company’s Seattle headquarters.
Volvo
DETROIT – Volvo Cars and Starbucks is collaborating on a pilot program to study the potential use and expansion of electric vehicle chargers at the coffee giant’s stores nationwide, the companies announced Tuesday. .
As part of the pilot program, Volvo will install up to 60 Volvo-branded vehicles, ChargePoint DC fast chargers at 15 Starbucks locations along a 1,350-mile route from the Denver area to the coffee company’s Seattle headquarters.
Volvo and Starbucks will closely monitor the stations and assess the impact on electric vehicle owners to determine the viability of the program, according to representatives of the companies.
Charging infrastructure is seen as a major barrier to electric vehicle adoption, prompting auto and charging companies to launch partnerships to study use cases and install chargers across the US. Ky
Volvo and Starbucks plan to set up a charging site about every 100 miles, within range of the batteries of most electric vehicles. The companies say the installation of the charger is scheduled for this summer and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Volvo-branded chargers will be made available to all electric vehicle owners with a ChargePoint account. According to the press release, Volvo owners can enter the stations for free or at a discounted rate.
The announcement comes a day before Starbucks’ annual meeting, which is expected to highlight its sustainability efforts, among other things. Additionally, the coffee chain on Tuesday also revealed the latest steps it is taking to reduce the use of disposable cups.