US Charging Infrastructure: Innovations and Initiatives

Developing and scaling electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in America is crucial for ensuring the growing adoption of EVs. It reduces carbon emissions, promotes sustainable transportation, and supports energy independence. Enhanced infrastructure makes EVs more accessible and convenient, encouraging widespread adoption and creating a cleaner, more resilient transportation system.

The electrification of America's transportation infrastructure is accelerating, with significant advancements and strategic initiatives shaping the future. Two recent developments highlight this transformative shift: Kempower's unveiling of its Megawatt Charging System (MCS) and the City of Dallas's partnership with Ford Pro to enhance its EV charging infrastructure. These initiatives underscore the commitment to sustainable mobility and the drive to reduce carbon emissions nationwide.

Kempower’s Megawatt Charging System unveiled

At the national Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) show in Las Vegas, Kempower—a developer of DC fast-charging solutions for EVs—showcased its groundbreaking Megawatt Charging System (MCS). The charging system technology is specifically designed for electric trucks, delivering power ratings above 1 MW. The MCS represents a significant leap forward in the DC fast-charging space, addressing the critical need for rapid and reliable charging solutions for heavy-duty electric vehicles.

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Kempower’s Megawatt Charging System. Courtesy of Kempower.

Kempower's CEO, Tomi Ristimäki, emphasized the truck market's importance as the next frontier in sustainable mobility. Ristimäki  stated, “We believe that the truck market is the next frontier in the DC fast-charging space; our MCS solutions fill the need to charge heavy trucks quickly and reliably.”  

He highlighted that the MCS not only supports the transition to heavy-duty electric mobility but also contributes to environmental goals and improves the quality of life for truck drivers by eliminating noise and vibration from their work environment. Kempower believes that to facilitate the market transition toward full MCS adoption in the coming years, current CCS2 power levels for heavy-duty vehicles must be increased in the short term. A dual strategy, with MCS and high-power CCS coexisting in the ecosystem, is inevitable for OEMs and EV supply equipment manufacturers to drive the shift to zero-emission road transport.

Dallas partners with Ford Pro for EV charging infrastructure

In a parallel development, the City of Dallas has taken a significant step towards achieving its Climate Action Plan goals by selecting Ford Pro to advance its EV charging infrastructure. This multi-year agreement is part of Dallas's broader strategy to electrify its municipal fleet by 2040. Ford Pro will supply the necessary hardware and smart charging software, facilitating the installation of EV chargers at various city worksites and ensuring optimal charging performance for the city's fleet.

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Dallas's initiative is a key component of its Comprehensive Environmental & Climate Action Plan (CECAP), which aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Mayor Eric L. Johnson highlighted the importance of this partnership in avoiding energy waste and reducing operational costs, reinforcing Dallas's commitment to a clean and sustainable environment.

Ford Pro charging station. Courtesy of Ford Pro.

The collaboration between Dallas and Ford Pro reflects a growing trend among public sector entities to invest in electrified fleets and EV infrastructure. Rising fuel costs, coupled with the operational benefits of EVs, are driving state and local governments to adopt smart charging solutions. Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro, noted the substantial impact that integrated charging software can have, helping public agencies manage current infrastructure and plan for future needs effectively.

“EV adoption is on the rise with state and local government fleets, and we’re proud to provide smart charging software and hardware to help electrify one of the Lone Star State's biggest cities in one of America’s biggest metro areas,” stated Cannis. “The impact software can have on EV charging can be substantial, helping public agencies like the City of Dallas not only manage charging infrastructure today, but help determine where chargers may be needed in the future.”

These advancements in EV charging infrastructure by Kempower and Ford Pro signify a major shift towards sustainable transportation in America. As more cities and companies invest in cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships, the nation moves closer to achieving its decarbonization goals, increasing the adoption of EVs, and ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.