CStore Decisions’ 2024 Chain of the Year, Pilot Co., revealed in its latest earnings report that it plans to develop a nationwide electric vehicle (EV) fast charger network of 2,000 charging stations in 500 U.S. Pilot locations by 2026.
Now, the retailer has reported significant progress on the project, notching more than 130 EV fast-charging locations in over 25 states through an ongoing partnership with General Motors (GM) and EVgo.
The charging network offers an elevated experience along popular corridors and major interstates, enabling long-distance EV travel, the company noted in a statement.
The milestone comes as the busy spring and summer travel season approaches, and EV drivers will be able to find Pilot charging infrastructure along I-75 between Michigan and Georgia, and regional corridors such as Minneapolis to Milwaukee, Detroit to Cleveland, San Antonio to Houston and Dallas to Nashville.
“As we strive to be the leading energy and experience provider people rely on to fuel their journeys, our travel centers are uniquely able to fill a need for EV owners who are looking to make the most of their miles,” said Shannon Sturgil, senior vice president of alternative fuels at Pilot. “The collaboration with General Motors and EVgo will continue to bring highway-based charging to more regions and routes where this infrastructure is needed.”
Pilot, GM and EVgo first announced their collaboration in 2022. Pilot’s travel centers feature premium amenities that aren’t typically found at other charging locations, such as lounges, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurants, grab-and-go food and beverage options and grocery and convenience items. Additionally, the retailer noted, every location is well-lit in centrally located areas that are accessible 24/7, with modernized restrooms and round-the-clock team members.
Many of Pilot’s charging locations also offer overhead canopies and pull-through charging stalls that are more convenient than back-in stalls and accommodate drivers who are towing trailers.
With EVgo’s high-power chargers offering up to 350 kilowatts, drivers can recharge in as little as 15 minutes.
Today, Pilot operates more than 670 travel centers and approximately 77 fuel-only retail locations across 44 states and five Canadian provinces. With over 30,000 employees, the retailer serves an average of 1.2 million guests per day.
