A new fast-charging option is on its way in the United States, as GM and Pilot Company open a new coast-to-coast EV charging network with EVgo. Pilot Travel Centers, in partnership with General Motors and EVgo, opened the first charging locations of its national electric vehicle fast-charging network this month.

The plan is to install 2,000 DC fast charging stalls (rated at up to 350 kilowatts) at up to 500 Pilot and Flying J travel center locations in the United States.

Under the initial phase, the three partners have already opened 17 locations in 13 states (AZ, FL, GA, ID, KY, MI, MO, OH, OK, TN, TX, VA, and WA) and hope to launch at least 25 locations with 100 charging stalls before the end of the year. In 2024, the network rollout will accelerate to roughly 200 locations and probably 800 individual charging stalls.

Simple math reveals that on average, there will usually be four charging stalls per location.

GM and Pilot Company plan to build out a coast-to-coast EV fast charging network.

The new coast-to-coast fast-charging network is well-positioned to support long-distance travel thanks to the outstanding locations of Pilot and Flying J travel centers. The stations will be installed at 50-mile intervals across the U.S.

However, even more important is what the stations offer. The 350-kW DC fast chargers are just the icing on the cake on top of 24/7 amenities and a much-needed pull-through layout, similar to typical gas stations.

According to the company, many locations throughout the network offer a variety of 24/7 amenities, products, and services, including:

• Multiple fast-charging stalls at each site, with chargers capable of delivering up to 350 kW.
• Canopies to help protect drivers from the elements while charging.
• Pull-through charging stalls to accommodate EV towing.
• Centrally-located chargers in well-lit areas, monitored around the clock by onsite staff.
• Access to restrooms, food and beverage options, and free Wi-Fi.
• Plug and Charge compatibility for a streamlined charging experience.

These are the things that definitely can elevate an electric top-up.

A 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV WT at a pull-through charging stall located at a flagship Pilot and Flying J travel center, as part of the new coast-to-coast fast charging network.

When it comes to the available charging standards, the chargers are currently equipped with the Combined Charging System (CCS1) plugs. It’s expected that in the not-too-distant future, the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs will be added as well – especially because GM has already announced its switch to the NACS.

EV travelers can find available charging locations via GM’s vehicle brand apps, Pilot’s myRewards Plus app, the EVgo app, PlugShare, and other applications designed for EV drivers. More info is available at pilotflyingj.com/ev-charging.

General Motors and Pilot Travel Centers also revealed that beginning in Spring 2024, GM drivers will get exclusive benefits, including discounts and the ability to reserve a charger. That’s on top of the regular deals on food, beverages, and merchandise available in the myRewards Plus app for all EV travelers at Pilot and Flying J locations.

A Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and Silverado EV WT charging at a flagship Pilot and Flying J travel center as part of the new coast-to-coast fast-charging network.

Adam Wright, Pilot Travel Centers LLC chief executive officer, said:

“EV drivers are eager for a better charging experience and to have more charging locations along America’s most traveled corridors. These new charging locations and the many more to come, will be critical for improving range confidence. As interest in EVs continues to grow, we believe our network can be a catalyst to getting more EV drivers on the road.”

Wade Sheffer, vice president of GM Energy, said:

“As GM continues to advance its vision of an all-electric future, we’re collaborating broadly to accelerate access to convenient charging at home and on the go, offering additional confidence to prospective single vehicle customers considering an EV. This new network will provide EV drivers with a quality charging experience and greater peace of mind during road trips.”

Dennis Kish, EVgo chief operating officer, said:

“EVgo is committed to delivering a convenient, reliable, and customer-centric charging experience. With robust amenities, optimal corridor locations, high-power charging and more, our collaboration with GM and Pilot Company puts drivers first and boosts range confidence for every EV traveler on the road.”