A group of E.V. charger makers and operators is pushing back against Texas’ plan to mandate the inclusion of Tesla technology in charging stations, saying it is “premature.”
Reuters reported last week that the state would require charging companies to include both Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) and the nationally recognized rival Combined Charging Standard (CCS) technology to be eligible for its program to electrify highways using federal dollars. The state’s Department of Transportation accepts public comments on the proposal through Thursday.
The requirement is a setback to the industry’s efforts to build a nationwide charging station network to encourage consumers to adopt EVs and reduce carbon emissions. It could also delay the ability of states to meet their targets under the Clean Power Act for reducing GHG emissions from cars and trucks. Despite the state’s decision, the industry will continue working with federal agencies and stakeholders to develop a national strategy to promote E.V. adoption, including developing an extensive network of charging stations.
While there is still significant work to be done, we are encouraged that the U.S. federal government is working with a broad range of partners to address state-level actions to support E.V. adoption across America. These initiatives, such as the buildup of a national network of charging stations and the introduction of a new model of vehicle tax credit that encourages private investment in E.V. infrastructure, can help accelerate the spread of E.V.s and make achieving climate goals more feasible for all Americans.
To achieve a successful transition to electric vehicles, there is a need to establish a robust network of fast-charging stations in high-demand locations where people typically drive or ride-share. This includes airports, city centers, and major employers like Hertz and bp. We are also excited that the U.S. government has recently announced a new program to develop a fleet of 1,000 Hertz EV charging hubs at key destinations nationwide, enabling millions of people to access reliable and affordable E.V. charging.
We are pleased that the administration is taking a phased approach to new Buy America requirements on E.V. charging equipment, giving manufacturers time to invest in domestic production and position U.S. workers to compete globally and lead in a growing industry. In addition, the Build America Investment Grant will provide a critical early investment to help revitalize our manufacturing base and ensure long-term domestic production capacity.
The McKinsey Global Institute estimates that a nationwide network of 25,000 to 75,000 fast-charging ports could make E.V.s more appealing to more people and accelerate the rate at which they are adopted. The build-out of this essential infrastructure should be managed to promote competition and avoid a single company controlling the E.V. charging market, which could discourage consumers from adopting E.V.s or deter investments in this vital technology. The upcoming national strategy will consider the need to ensure broad consumer choice and an open, competitive market for charging.
