Maui, Hawaii - In an exciting development for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, Hawaii has recently launched its first National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program EV charging station. This milestone makes Hawaii the fourth state, following Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania, to introduce a NEVI-funded DC fast charging station to the public.
The newly operational charging station is located at the Kahuui Park & Ride lot near the intersection of Kuihelani and Puunene Avenue on Maui. It boasts four EV Connect 150 kW DC fast chargers equipped with CCS and CHAdeMO ports. While Teslas can also charge at this station, they still require the use of NACS adapters.
The design and construction of Hawaii’s inaugural NEVI EV charging station amounted to $3 million, with $2.4 million sourced from federal funds and $600,000 from the state highway fund.
The state has plans to install an additional 10 NEVI-funded DC fast chargers, with the next one slated to open at Aloha Tower on Oahu under the management of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT currently operates a fleet of 43 Teslas and 45 Ford F-150 Lightnings, with plans to expand further.
The federal NEVI program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has allocated $5 billion over five years to assist U.S. states in establishing a network of EV charging stations along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors, consisting of interstates and major highways.
In accordance with the NEVI program, EV charging stations are required to be available within every 50-mile stretch and within one travel mile of the Alternative Fuel Corridor. The island of Maui, with a land area of 735 square miles and dimensions of 48 miles in length and 26 miles in width, meets these criteria.
NEVI EV charging stations must feature a minimum of four ports, capable of simultaneously charging four EVs at 150 kilowatts (kW) each, with a total station power capacity of 600 kW or more. They are also mandated to provide 24-hour public accessibility and offer nearby amenities such as restrooms, food and beverage options, and shelter.
The Kahului Park & Ride was selected as the first site for Hawaii’s NEVI EV charging station due to its round-the-clock accessibility and proximity to the Maui Alternative Fuel Corridors. Until March 10, charging at the station is free of charge.
According to the U.S. Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, as of February 16, there are over 170,000 public charging ports available nationwide, with an average of 900 new chargers being installed each week. The consistent expansion of EV charging infrastructure showcases the country’s commitment to facilitating the growth of electric vehicles and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
Lesley
Sichuan Green Science & Technology Ltd., Co.
0086 19158819659
Post time: Mar-08-2024
