If Illinois loves one thing, it’s looking westward for inspiration (yes, Colorado, you again). So here’s a playbook we’d be smart to copy: ChargePoint and the Colorado Energy Office just teamed up to transform their highways into an EV paradise. They’ve installed 33 DC fast-charging sites with over 80 chargers, strategically placed along six major corridors. The result? EV drivers can cruise across the Centennial State with confidence—nearly 80% of Colorado’s highways are now within 30 miles of a fast-charger. Back in 2019? That number was a dismal 40%. Progress, people!
Why Illinois Should Care
Imagine:
- Statewide Connectivity: From Chicago to Carbondale, from Rockford to Champaign, drivers could zip across our highways without sweating a dead battery.
- Economic Boost: Fast chargers placed at rest stops, convenience stores, and visitor centers? That means EV drivers grab snacks, shop local, and spend time (and dollars) while their car powers up.
- Environmental Leadership: Doubling down on EV infrastructure puts Illinois on track to meet climate goals while reducing emissions across the state. That’s good PR for the public sector and private businesses.
How Colorado Pulled It Off
- Public-Private Partnership: Colorado invested $10 million in state funding, while private businesses and local governments chipped in over $2 million. Teamwork made the dream work.
- Strategic Locations: Chargers went where drivers actually need them—highways like I-70, I-25, and key travel routes, all accessible through the ChargePoint app.
- Tech That Works: They utilized ChargePoint Express Plus, which lets drivers plug in, grab a coffee, and get back on the road, fast.
The Results Speak for Themselves
- Double the Coverage: In just a few years, Colorado went from “range anxiety” to “road trip ready.”
- Business-Friendly Future: Colorado didn’t just support EV drivers—they supported local businesses that benefit from increased traffic.
- Leadership on the National Stage: Colorado is now leading in EV sales and charging infrastructure. Your move, Illinois.
What’s the Opportunity for Illinois?
Illinois is no stranger to big investments—our state has proven time and again that public-private partnerships can work. But here’s the reality: without fast-charging corridors, EV adoption stalls, and we risk getting lapped by states like Colorado.
Private Businesses—Are You Listening?
From gas stations to convenience stores, hotels to retail hubs, businesses that add chargers attract loyal, high-value EV customers. (Ever noticed how EV drivers hang out while charging? That’s coffee sold, snacks grabbed, and souvenirs bought.)
A Little Humor, A Big Nudge
If Colorado—a state famous for hiking boots and hemp products—can pull this off, surely Illinois, the Land of Lincoln and deep-dish pizza, can too. Whether you’re a government leader looking to reduce emissions or a private business ready to power up your parking lot, let’s take the wheel on EV infrastructure.
As ChargePoint’s CEO Rick Wilmer said, “Public-private partnerships play a critical role in building out charging infrastructure. Together, we are ensuring drivers can charge quickly and conveniently.”
Illinois, let’s stop staring at Colorado’s homework and start turning plans into pavement. Your highways (and your economy) will thank you.
Ready to Lead? ChargePoint and partners are just a call away. Let’s make EV travel Illinois easy.
1. What exactly did Colorado accomplish with this project?
Colorado, through a partnership between the Colorado Energy Office and ChargePoint, installed 33 DC fast-charging sites with over 80 chargers along six major highway corridors. This effort doubled the coverage of fast-charging stations—now, 80% of highways are within 30 miles of a charger, up from just 40% in 2019.
2. Why should Illinois care about EV charging infrastructure?
EV adoption is growing rapidly, and Illinois has ambitious goals for clean energy and transportation. Expanding charging infrastructure will:
- Reduce range anxiety: Drivers will feel confident taking EVs on long trips.
- Boost local economies: Charging stations at rest stops, stores, and visitor centers bring in foot traffic and spending.
- Promote sustainability: More EVs on the road means lower emissions and cleaner air.
3. What funding did Colorado use?
The project received $10 million in state funding and an additional $2 million+ from private businesses and local governments. This public-private partnership made the initiative achievable while leveraging both state resources and private investment.
4. Where were Colorado’s chargers placed?
The fast chargers were placed strategically along heavily traveled highways like I-70, Highway 40, Highway 50, and Highway 550, as well as at rest stops, convenience stores, and visitor centers. Locations were chosen for driver convenience, ensuring charging is accessible on major routes.
5. How does this benefit private businesses in Illinois?
Adding EV chargers brings new opportunities for businesses:
- More Customers: EV drivers spend time at businesses while charging. More time = more spending.
- Increased Visibility: Locations with chargers become go-to stops for EV travelers.
- Competitive Advantage: Businesses that adopt early will attract loyal EV customers.
6. What kind of chargers are being used, and how fast are they?
The project used DC fast chargers—specifically ChargePoint Express Plus stations. These chargers allow most EVs to get 80% charged in about 20-30 minutes, making them ideal for highway stops.
7. How does EV infrastructure align with Illinois’ goals?
Illinois aims to put 1 million EVs on the road by 2030 and reduce carbon emissions statewide. Building out a fast-charging network will support this goal by making EV ownership and travel more accessible. Plus, Illinois can leverage federal programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) initiative for additional funding.
8. How can local governments and businesses partner to make this happen?
- Local Governments: Collaborate with private companies (like ChargePoint) to secure funding and identify strategic locations for chargers.
- Businesses: Install chargers at retail stores, gas stations, and rest stops to attract EV drivers. Programs like NEVI can offer funding support.
9. How will drivers find these chargers?
EV drivers can locate chargers easily using tools like the ChargePoint mobile app or website, which provide real-time information about station locations, availability, and charging speeds.
10. Is there really demand for EV chargers in Illinois?
Yes! EV ownership is growing rapidly across the Midwest, and range anxiety (fear of running out of charge) remains a top barrier. With more charging infrastructure, drivers will feel confident switching to EVs, helping Illinois reach its clean energy targets.
11. What’s stopping Illinois from doing this now?
Nothing! Colorado has proven that public-private partnerships, state leadership, and targeted investments can make EV fast-charging corridors a reality. The blueprint is there—Illinois just needs to put the wheels in motion.
12. Who should I contact to get involved?
Reach out to organizations like ChargePoint or state agencies to learn more about funding, partnership opportunities, and charger installation processes. Illinois businesses and governments—this is your chance to lead the charge!