The widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the U.S. and globally is heavily reliant on the development of accessible and reliable charging infrastructure. While industry leaders such as Tesla and ChargePoint are making significant strides, numerous other EV charging companies are rapidly gaining momentum to ensure that EV drivers can always find a charging station when needed. Here’s a closer look at 10 innovative startups and companies that are shaping the future of EV charging.
Key EV Charging Startups in the U.S.
1. Spark Charge
Based in Somerville, Massachusetts, SparkCharge has introduced a unique portable charger called “The Roadie.” Their charging-as-a-service model is designed to reduce startup costs for businesses by eliminating the need for installation and permits, offering a flexible solution for EV owners in both urban and remote areas.
2. BP Pulse (formerly AMPLY Power)
Headquartered in Mountain View, California, BP Pulse specializes in managing fleet charging, specifically for electric buses, trucks, and commercial vehicles. By utilizing software solutions to minimize downtime, the company helps fleets reduce energy costs. BP Pulse also operates a Gigahub in Houston, featuring 24 DC fast chargers.
3. L-Charge
L-Charge is a California-based startup that focuses on mobile charging solutions. With $8 million in recent funding, the company offers fast charging in remote locations. Through a convenient app, drivers can request a mobile unit to bring a charger directly to them, addressing the issue of charging scarcity in less populated areas. L-Charge’s stations are also adaptable to hydrogen fuel vehicles.
4. Electrify America
With strong backing from Volkswagen, Electrify America is rapidly expanding across the U.S. The company has already established 851 station locations and 3,264 ports, aiming to build a nationwide network of ultra-fast charging stations. Its focus on urban areas and highways makes long-distance EV travel more feasible.
5. Itselectric
Headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, Itselectric is revolutionizing curbside charging by using electricity from nearby buildings to lower installation costs. Their goal is to provide Level 2 charging stations at no cost to property owners, helping make EV adoption more accessible in cities like Los Angeles and Boston, with $6.5 million in funding to support expansion.
6. OpConnect
Based in Oregon, OpConnect offers cloud-based EV charging solutions for a variety of users, including fleet operators, workplaces, and residential areas. The platform simplifies maintenance, payment processing, and scheduling, making EV charging more reliable and convenient in both urban and remote settings.
7. Ample
Ample, based in San Francisco, has developed a modular battery-swapping technology that provides a faster alternative to traditional charging. This innovative approach allows EV drivers to swap their depleted batteries for fully charged ones in just minutes, helping to reduce wait times and make EVs more practical for fleet operators.
8. MOEV
Los Angeles-based MOEV offers a cloud-based charging management system that helps businesses and property owners efficiently manage multiple EV stations. The platform provides analytics to optimize energy use, which helps reduce costs and improve overall station utilization over time.
9. IoTecha
New Jersey’s IoTecha focuses on integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology with EV charging infrastructure. The company’s communication modules connect EVs and charging stations to smart grids, helping to enhance energy efficiency and streamline grid management, a crucial step towards supporting mass EV adoption.
10. EVgo Network
Founded in 2010, EVgo has grown to become one of the largest public fast-charging networks in the U.S. With 2,175 ports across 1,144 locations, EVgo aims to provide reliable chargers in convenient urban locations. The company partners with automakers like Nissan, GM, and Toyota, as well as retailers like 7-Eleven, to offer fast-charging solutions with subscription plans.
These innovative startups and companies are playing an essential role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles by providing diverse charging solutions tailored to the needs of both individual drivers and businesses.