Convenience store giant 7-Eleven recently announced plans to build no fewer than 500 new DC fast charging stations at select stores before the end of 2022.
That’s big news considering they currently only operate 22 total charging stations split between just 14 of their 9000+ locations.
These new EV chargers will be distributed between 250 stores throughout the U.S. and Canada. The locations themselves haven’t been announced, but considering roughly one-third of all 7-Eleven stores in the US are split between California, Texas, and Florida, it’s safe to guess these states will get the brunt of the new plugs.
It’s a step in the right direction for the electrification of North America, and could set the stage for an even larger expansion of charging infrastructure if all goes well. Japan, Thailand, and South Korea are home to more 7-Eleven stores than the US, with nearly 21,000 in Japan alone.
Taiwan and China aren’t too far behind with about 5,600 and 3,100 locations respectively. Considering the recent commitments of both China and Japan to the rapid development of zero-emissions-friendly infrastructure, the company could be setting the stage for a serious leg-up in the EV-charging business.
7-Eleven president and CEO Joe DePinto’s recent comments seem to be in line with that possibility.
Per DePinto: “7-Eleven has always been a leader in new ideas and technology to better serve the needs of our customers. Adding 500 charging ports at 250 7-eleven stores will make EV charging more convenient and help accelerate broader adoption of EVs and alternative fuels. We are committed to the communities we serve and to working toward a more sustainable future.”
