What's New in EV Charging Stations

In 2025, the EV charging landscape has seen notable advancements focused on speed, integration, and network expansion. Interoperability efforts are also accelerating, as many automakers and charging providers converge on a unified connector standard (notably Tesla's NACS), reducing compatibility hurdles. In 2025, several automakers (including Rivian) also began opening their proprietary charging networks to support all EVs, reflecting a push toward greater interoperability. Tesla V4 Superchargers, now capable of delivering up to 1.2 MW, are beginning to accommodate heavy-duty vehicles, marking a shift toward electrified freight. Meanwhile, ChargePoint and ABB have launched higher-capacity Level 2 and ultra-fast DC chargers, supporting bidirectional power flow and faster turnaround for commercial fleets. Additionally, Tritium introduced an ultra-scalable DC charging platform in 2025 that can support dozens of charging dispensers from a single 1.6  megawatt power unit, highlighting a focus on flexible, large-scale fleet charging. Traditional infrastructure players like Eaton and Schneider Electric are emphasizing energy management integration, helping fleets optimize charging around peak grid hours. Furthermore, a newly formed joint venture backed by major automakers announced plans to deploy 30,000 public fast-charging stations across North America by 2030, aiming to improve charger reliability and coverage. These developments signal a maturing market with a strong push toward efficiency, interoperability, and large-scale deployment.

Introduction

Commercial fleet managers are operating in a rapidly changing landscape as electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly prominent around the world. Regulatory mandates, improvements in battery technology, and evolving sustainability goals have spurred the transition from internal combustion engines to EVs. While electric vehicles promise numerous benefits—reduced fuel costs, lower emissions, and a progressive corporate image—these advantages depend on having reliable, efficient, and well-planned charging infrastructure. Fleet operators are now focusing on charging strategies and infrastructure deployment as critical components of their electrification plans.

Five main charging technologies have emerged to meet the needs of commercial fleets: Level 1 Charging, Level 2 Charging, DC Fast Charging (DCFC), Wireless (Inductive) Charging, and Battery Swapping. Each technology offers unique mechanics, benefits, limitations, and use-case scenarios. Understanding these technologies in detail can help fleet managers design an electrification strategy tailored to their operational requirements.

Technology Overview and How It Works

Level 1 Charging (120 V AC)

Mechanics: Level 1 charging uses a standard household 120 volt outlet and the vehicle’s onboard charger to provide power. This setup typically adds around 3–5 miles of range per hour of charging. Because it relies on standard residential voltage, it requires no specialized installation.

Application: This “trickle” charging is only practical for fleet vehicles with minimal daily mileage or very long idle periods. It is sometimes used for plug-in hybrids or take-home vehicles that can charge overnight at employees’ homes. While convenient and low-cost, the slow speed of Level 1 makes it unsuitable for most commercial fleet operations that require vehicles to be recharged quickly or multiple times per day.

Level 2 Charging (208–240 V AC)

Mechanics: Level 2 charging uses a dedicated 208–240  volt supply to deliver higher power to an EV’s onboard charger. Typical amperage ranges from 20–80 amps, translating to roughly 12–30 miles of range per hour. Some newer high-power Level 2 units can deliver up to 19.2 kilowatts, potentially adding around 80 miles of range per hour under ideal conditions.

Application: Level 2 is the workhorse of commercial fleet electrification. Depots and workplaces often rely on these chargers for vehicles parked overnight or for several hours during the day. Typical fleet vehicles such as delivery vans, service trucks, or pool cars can easily achieve a full recharge by morning. Many Level 2 stations offer smart features—network connectivity, remote monitoring, and load management.

Market Trends: Level 2 remains the most widely deployed charging solution in fleets because it balances cost-effectiveness with adequate speed. Large companies have rolled out thousands of these chargers at distribution centers and warehouses to support expanding EV operations. Meanwhile, advanced Level 2 models on the market offer higher power outputs, networked management systems, and even bidirectional charging capabilities, allowing fleet vehicles to potentially send power back to the grid or to buildings.

DC Fast Charging (DCFC)

Mechanics: DC fast charging bypasses the vehicle’s onboard charger by converting AC to DC externally and delivering high-voltage power directly to the battery. Standard DCFC units range from roughly 50 kilowatts up to 350  kilowatts or more. At typical power levels of 150–250  kilowatts, an EV can reach about 80 percent battery capacity within 20–40 minutes.

Application: DCFC is indispensable for fleets requiring quick turnaround times, such as ride-share operators, logistics fleets running multiple shifts, or transit fleets with limited downtime. It is also used as a supplemental solution at depots where Level 2 is the primary charger but occasional fast charging is needed to handle unexpected schedule demands. Public-facing fleets often incorporate DC fast charging to support enroute refueling and extend overall range.

Trends & Growth: DC fast charging infrastructure has grown rapidly in recent years, especially with installations of ultra-fast stations (350 kilowatts and above). Some heavy-truck charging solutions now exceed 750  kilowatts, with a new Megawatt Charging System (MCS) standard poised to push that capacity even higher. Meanwhile, ongoing advances in battery design (for instance, higher-density packs for electric trucks and buses) are enabling vehicles to charge faster and drive farther, expanding the range of feasible electric routes. Because of its ability to minimize downtime, DC fast charging is a critical enabler for fleets aiming to electrify demanding routes once thought infeasible for EVs.

Wireless (Inductive) Charging

Mechanics: Wireless charging relies on magnetic induction to transfer power through the air between a ground pad (transmitter) and a vehicle-mounted receiver. When properly aligned over the pad, the vehicle begins charging without the need to plug in. Most current commercial wireless systems are stationary (charging only when the vehicle is parked), though research continues on dynamic wireless charging where vehicles could charge while driving on specially equipped roads.

Application: Wireless charging is especially appealing in scenarios where minimal human intervention is preferred. Autonomous shuttles and robotic fleets can benefit from not having to manage cables. Transit agencies have used wireless charging at bus stops to periodically boost battery levels, and fleets in harsh-weather environments appreciate the reduced wear and tear on connectors.

Recent Developments: Once considered experimental, wireless EV charging has advanced to early commercial stages. Transit agencies in several states have accumulated millions of miles on wirelessly charged buses. Power levels have risen from modest rates (50–75 kilowatts) to well above 150  kilowatts in newer systems. Although efficiency and standardization are still being improved, the technology is steadily gaining traction in transit, logistics, and specialized fleet environments.

Battery Swapping

Mechanics: Battery swapping involves exchanging a depleted EV battery for a fully charged pack at an automated station. This process can take only a few minutes, as the station handles recharging of removed batteries separately. It requires vehicles to be designed or retrofitted for easy battery removal and to be compatible with the station’s battery inventory.

Application: Battery swapping greatly reduces downtime, making it attractive for fleets that prize operational continuity—such as ride-hailing services, last-mile delivery, or other high-mileage operations. Fleets can charge spare battery packs during off-peak hours, reducing stress on the grid. However, variance in battery design across manufacturers remains a barrier. Most successful deployments occur where vehicles share standardized or compatible battery formats.

Outlook: Although battery swapping has seen success internationally (for taxis, trucks, and private cars), in North America it remains an emerging niche. A handful of startups have piloted swap stations for rideshare drivers and are partnering with automakers to explore swappable battery options. High setup costs and the need for standardization pose significant obstacles. In the near term, swapping is likely to stay a specialized solution for certain urban fleets or controlled environments.

Typical Applications and Where Technologies Are Not Well Suited

Each charging technology aligns with different operational patterns:

• Level 1: Generally viable only for fleets with very low daily mileage or extremely long overnight dwell times. Fleets needing daily turnarounds find it unsuitable.
• Level 2: The cornerstone for most fleet applications, balancing speed and cost. It supports reliable overnight charging and suffices for many light- to medium-duty vehicles.
• DC Fast Charging: Critical for quick refueling in time-sensitive operations like ride-hailing and long-haul trucking. Highly effective, though installation costs can be substantial.
• Wireless Charging: Useful for autonomous or harsh-environment fleets where cords might be damaged. However, it remains costly and requires careful alignment planning.
• Battery Swapping: Excels in high-mileage settings requiring rapid turnaround. However, it demands significant investment and standardized batteries, limiting broad applicability.

Government Regulations and Incentives

Public-sector support for EV infrastructure has grown significantly, accelerating commercial fleet electrification. Major U.S. programs include:

• National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program: Provides federal funding to install DC fast chargers along highway corridors (with about $5 billion allocated over five years), boosting confidence in interstate EV travel for both personal and commercial vehicles.
• Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Grants: A discretionary grant program supporting both corridor and community charging projects. Some grants focus on building depot charging hubs in urban areas, aiding fleets without space or resources for private infrastructure.
• Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Incentives: Offers a comprehensive set of EV-related tax credits and grants, including a tax credit (up to 30 percent or $100,000 per charger installation) that directly offsets the cost of installing chargers at fleet depots. Businesses in certain locations can claim a significant share of installation expenses, greatly improving electrification economics.
• State and Utility Initiatives: Many states provide rebates, grants, or “make-ready” programs to cover the electrical infrastructure costs of fleet charging. Utilities often collaborate on grid upgrades for medium- and heavy-duty fleet depots, helping mitigate demand charges and capacity constraints.

As of 2025, multiple overlapping policies have created a favorable landscape for EV infrastructure expansion in most major U.S. markets. However, the federal policy outlook is evolving. Under the Trump Administration, some EV-friendly regulations and incentives are being reexamined. For example, proposals have been made to roll back certain emissions mandates and to question the continuation of EV tax credits. President Trump has also supported efforts to revoke state-level zero-emission vehicle mandates (such as California’s), which could slow EV adoption in those markets. While major infrastructure initiatives like NEVI and IRA funding remain in effect for now, future federal support for EVs may not expand as aggressively as under previous policies. Nonetheless, robust state-level programs and private-sector investment continue to drive charging infrastructure growth. Fleet operators should stay attuned to these policy developments, as they can impact available incentives and long-term planning.

Features & Benefits, Advantages & Limitations

• Cost Savings: EVs offer substantially lower fuel and maintenance costs than comparable internal combustion vehicles. Electricity prices per mile are often 40–60 percent lower than diesel fuel, and EV maintenance expenses (with fewer moving parts and no engine fluids) can be 30–50 percent less, leading to thousands of dollars in savings per vehicle annually. For instance, a typical delivery van converted to electric can save roughly $3,000–$5,000 per year in fuel and maintenance combined.
• Operational Efficiency: Level 1 charging may suffice for only the smallest-use cases, while Level 2 charging allows predictable overnight refueling for most fleet needs. For intense duty cycles, DC fast charging and battery swapping drastically cut downtime, enabling higher vehicle utilization. Wireless charging further simplifies energy top-ups for driverless or continuously operating fleets.
• Reduced Downtime: By minimizing refueling time, advanced charging solutions enable vehicles to spend more time on the road. Fast charging or swapping can turn an hours-long charging stop into a quick break of under an hour or just minutes. Many fleets taking advantage of midday DC fast charging or battery swaps have effectively increased vehicle utilization, allowing more deliveries or trips per day with the same number of vehicles. In one parcel delivery fleet, for example, adding a midday fast-charge session increased the number of routes completed per van by over 20 percent compared to overnight-charging only.
• Safety & Maintenance: Plug-in systems require periodic inspection of cables and connectors but eliminate the hazards of handling flammable liquid fuels. Wireless pads remove tripping hazards and prevent wear on charging connectors. EV powertrains also have fewer points of mechanical failure (no engine or transmission), improving reliability and reducing unplanned maintenance events. Regenerative braking in EVs also means less brake wear, further extending maintenance intervals and improving overall vehicle safety. Additionally, battery swapping centralizes battery handling, though it introduces complex station equipment.
• Environmental Impact: Replacing diesel or gasoline vehicles with EVs eliminates tailpipe emissions and significantly cuts greenhouse gas pollution. Depending on the electricity generation mix, overall lifecycle CO2 emissions per vehicle can be reduced by roughly 60–75 percent. Fleets also benefit from quieter operation and zero local air pollutants, improving conditions for drivers and communities. Many fleets operate under corporate or public sustainability goals, so the reduction in greenhouse gases and pollutants is a significant benefit.
• Return on Investment: Lower operating costs and available incentives translate to a compelling business case over a vehicle’s life. An analysis by RMI found that commercial EVs can achieve roughly a 9 percent lower total cost of ownership compared to similar gasoline vehicles, even when factoring in charging infrastructure investments. Fleet operators often report total cost of ownership benefits within a few years. Public programs (federal tax credits, utility rebates) can offset upfront vehicle and infrastructure costs, accelerating the payback period on electrification projects.

Conclusion & Future Outlook

Commercial fleet electrification continues to gain momentum, driven by both supportive policies and rapid technological innovation. Leading charging equipment suppliers and vehicle OEMs have accelerated the pace of improvements, introducing higher-power systems and expanding networks that directly benefit fleet operations. For example, logistics companies and municipal fleets across the U.S. are rolling out hundreds of electric delivery vans, buses, and trucks, leveraging new charging solutions to keep them running efficiently. Level 2 charging is expected to remain the mainstay for most fleets, thanks to its affordability and reliability. DC fast charging infrastructure will also expand quickly as more fleets adopt electric vehicles that require rapid turnaround, especially for mission-critical uses. Although still emerging, wireless charging is drawing attention for autonomous or high-frequency fleets, and battery swapping shows particular promise in scenarios where minimal downtime is essential.

Looking ahead, fleet managers have an unprecedented opportunity to integrate cutting-edge charging solutions at increasingly lower capital costs, thanks to ongoing incentives and economies of scale. Strategic planning—evaluating charging needs, vehicle dwell times, grid constraints, and incentive eligibility—will be vital to optimize total cost of ownership and ensure a seamless transition to electric mobility. Even with potential shifts in federal policy under the current administration, the broader industry trajectory toward electrified fleets is expected to continue. Strong private-sector commitments, state-level mandates, and the clear economic and environmental advantages of EVs suggest a bright outlook for electric fleet adoption under a range of policy scenarios. Industry forecasts predict that the share of EVs in commercial fleet procurement will continue rising through the late 2020s, fueled by an expanding range of electric models and steady improvements in battery costs and performance.