Latest news with #ElectricEra
Malaysian Reserve
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Malaysian Reserve
Don't Sweat It: New Electric Era EV Chargers Help Cut Carbon Emissions and Save Energy, So You Can Keep Cool This Summer
Electric Era's patented battery backed power-conditioned DC fast chargers eliminate peak grid load for more energy efficient charging and reduced utility grid impact and energy costs. SEATTLE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As sweltering summer heat waves crisscross America, one EV charging company is doing its part to be a good neighbor and helping homeowners stay cool by using 70% less peak energy to charge vehicles at nearby stores and shopping malls. That's important as the average homeowner will shell out nearly $800 this summer to stay cool – a 6% increase over last year. It's a vicious cycle as electric utilities scramble to meet peak demand by building more carbon-emitting peaker generators, passing costs on to customers. To help mitigate peak power demand and save nearby utility customers money on their energy bills, the Seattle-based Electric Era EV charging system manufacturer developed a patented battery-backed DC fast charger that cuts peak power consumption up to 70% – enough to give back the equivalent of 700 homes worth of power. 'No matter what you drive, whether it's an EV or gas vehicle, homes and businesses shoulder the costs to expand the electric grid. That's why we designed our EV chargers to significantly reduce the impact on the local energy grid,' said Electric Era CEO Quincy Lee. 'Our goal is to cut the carbon emissions that lead to higher summer temperatures without having a negative financial impact on the communities we serve.' Serving Local EV Customers Without Increasing Electric CostsMinimizing peak power demand was top-of-mind last year when the State of Washington and the Snohomish County Public Utility District (SNOPUD) evaluated competing level-3 charging options to use for the state's Climate Commitment Act program. They chose Electric Era for their first co-funded DCFC installation in Arlington, WA, in part, because the company was able to install an eight-stall 200 kW charging system using existing electric infrastructure. Not only did that save nearby rate payers money, it also dramatically reduced the amount of time it took for Electric Era to install the chargers – from years to just eight months. It also cut operating costs upwards of 70% for EV charge site developer Skycharger, by drawing power from both the battery and the grid simultaneously to cut peak demand charges. 'The project's use of innovative battery technology made it possible to provide power to the chargers without the need for increased capacity or expensive upgrades,' utility spokesperson Aaron Swaney said. 'We're thrilled that Electric Era will help us support EV customers in our service area with minimal impact on our residential and business customers.' Shave the Peaks, and Save the Ice CreamThe 'secret sauce' behind Electric Era's DC fast chargers is the battery-backed power conditioning that shaves off peak energy loads when customers charge their cars with a low state of charge (near empty for gas cars). Peak power is what electric utilities design for – and it's what drives up nearby electric utility costs, and adds months, if not years, to the time it takes to install Level-3 DC fast charging systems, which is critical to expanding EV use in the U.S. The idea of peak power reduction is not new, but making it work successfully from the charger location is, and many states are looking into what they call 'grid supportive transportation electrification' to use power conditioning systems like Electric Era's to minimize grid expansion expenditures and to use less high carbon-emitting peaker power plants. A 2023 Distribution Grid Electrification study by the California Public Advocates (CPA) Office estimates that expanding the state's electric grid to support EV charging alone might cost up to $51 billion over the next decade, however, those costs could be cut in half by shifting EV charging away from peak demand times and using power conditioned EV chargers to 'shave off' peak power loads. Load balancing is expected to become a key ingredient to breaking down the barriers to EV adoption by mitigating the impact of EV charging on the nation's antiquated electric grid – and further slowing the cycle of carbon emissions causing record summer temperatures, leading to more energy consumption and higher electric costs for consumers and small businesses. 'The notion that the nation's electric grid cannot handle the load of EVs is another myth that's ready to be busted,' Lee said. 'Yes, we can have lower carbon transportation and we can also have air conditioning and cold ice cream – it doesn't need to be an either-or proposition.' About Electric EraWith a vision to accelerate the world into the electric era of zero-emissions transportation through rapid innovations and market disruption, Electric Era is the only full-service EV charging solutions provider focused on the rapid deployment of highly reliable Level-3 DCFC systems at retail locations to grow and extend their retail space. Electric Era's patented battery-backed charging architecture and bespoke, private-label charging solutions deliver industry-leading power and reliability in a package that dramatically reduces installation time and energy costs. Learn more at Electric Era on X: @ElectricEraTechFollow Electric Era on LinkedIn: Linkedin/company/electric-era
Fox News
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Fox News
Costco's EV charging move signals major shift
Costco has always been a go-to destination for bulk groceries, electronics and even gas. Now, the retailer is making headlines by bringing fast, reliable EV charging to its parking lots. With electric vehicles becoming more popular and over a million new EVs registered in 2024 alone, the need for convenient charging options has never been greater. Costco EV charging stations are stepping up to meet this demand, offering a seamless way for drivers to power up while they shop. In a move that's turning heads, Costco partnered with Electric Era, a startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, to install ultra-fast charging stations at select locations. The North Port, Florida, warehouse was among the first to benefit, with six fast chargers installed in just 54 days-an impressive turnaround in an industry where installations can take months or even years. These chargers deliver up to 200 kWh, allowing most EVs to reach 80% charge in just 20 to 60 minutes. That's enough time to shop for groceries, grab a slice of pizza and return to a car ready for the road. Costco EV charging stations stand out for several reasons. They offer fast charging, which means less waiting and more time for shopping, and their battery-backed system minimizes the need for major grid upgrades, allowing installations to be completed more quickly and efficiently. These stations are also highly reliable, boasting over 98% uptime and more than 90% session reliability, so EV drivers can count on them to keep moving. The chargers themselves are user-friendly, equipped with both CCS and NACS connectors, 24/7 monitoring, automatic fault detection, over-the-air updates, and even integration with Costco's loyalty program. Large screens at the stations display promotions and store information, making the experience even more engaging. By strategically placing these chargers at popular warehouse locations, Costco not only offers greater convenience for drivers, but also encourages customers to spend more time in-store, benefiting both shoppers and the retailer. Costco isn't stopping with Electric Era. The retailer has also teamed up with Electrify America to roll out DC fast chargers at select locations in California, Colorado and Florida. These stations deliver up to 350 kW and are compatible with nearly all EV makes and models, making them a practical option for a wide range of drivers. With over 500 warehouses across the U.S., Costco has the potential to dramatically expand the nation's fast-charging infrastructure. If the North Port pilot proves successful, thousands of new charging stalls could pop up nationwide, making EV ownership easier and more appealing. Costco EV charging stations are more than just a convenience; they're a glimpse into the future of retail and transportation. By integrating fast, reliable charging with the everyday shopping experience, Costco is helping to drive America's transition to electric vehicles, one parking lot at a time. Is Costco quietly becoming one of the most powerful players in America's EV revolution, or should it be betting on other fuels instead? Let us know by writing to us at Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
How Costco's electric vehicle charging experiment could be a game changer for American drivers
Costco is one of the few retailers in America where consumers can get an affordable slice of pizza just a few steps away from furniture, produce, and technology. Costco warehouses are essentially one-stop shops for everything folks need for their daily lives. The retailer even offers gasoline at certain locations (via their gas stations). Transportation is evolving and Costco plans to evolve with it, according to Electrek, an electric vehicle news site. The retailer will host fast EV charging stalls from Electric Era (an EV charging company) at a North Port, Florida location. Here's how this collaboration could change the way American Costco shoppers charge their EVs forever. Solving the electric vehicle charging infrastructure issue in America may seem like rocket science. That's why a team of former SpaceX engineers − the founders of Electric Era − might be the ideal group to tackle the lack of reliable fast EV chargers in the country. Electric Era provided Costco with six EV fast charging stalls in just 54 days. These charging stalls are capable of recharging a battery by up to 80% of its total capacity in 20 to 60 minutes. So, folks using these chargers could theoretically park their vehicles in a Costco parking lot, shop, and return to an EV that has a replenished battery. Positive non-Tesla charging experiences can be few and far between as electric vehicle market share drastically outpaces the amount of available reliable chargers in America. Over 1 million new electric vehicles were registered in 2024 according to Experian. Several automakers including General Motors are seeing record EV sales in 2025. Costco's experiment at its North Port, Florida location could lead to future partnerships with Electric Era on similar charging stations across its retail locations. There are at least 531 Costco warehouses in the U.S. according to a 2023 article by Visual Capitalist. Adding charging stations to Costco parking lots nationally could result in thousands of new fast charging stalls in America for EV owners (independent from any federal investments or incentives). Electric vehicle charging is on its way to becoming more ubiquitous, but it still has a long way to go. Part of the reason charging is such a headache to many electric vehicle owners is the lack of fast charging stalls and stations. Level 2 chargers can take hours to provide an EV with enough power to make a charging session beneficial to drivers. Level 3 charging stations are the most convenient types of charging stations thus far. They can provide more kilowatts than weaker Level 2 charging stations, providing significant battery percentage gains in under an hour. In comparison, it can take six to eight hours for a Level 2 charging stall to provide an adequate charging session. Tesla has partnered with several automakers including Hyundai, Kia, General Motors, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Honda, Acura, and more to allow Tesla Supercharger compatibility via adapters (that may be built into charging stalls). This partnership is good for non-Tesla EV owners, but it means more Tesla superchargers are being used than ever before, increasing the demand. If you don't have access to a reliable home charging system, electric vehicle charging can be anything but easy. EV owners without a home charger have to rely on public charging stations, which can be crowded and problematic. There are peak charging times where local public charging stations can amass crowds patiently waiting for their turns at the stall. Typically, there are only four to six stalls at a station. Charging stalls can be slower during peak hours and in extreme weather conditions. If Costco chooses to sign additional contracts with Electric Era, the retailer's parking lots could become extremely beneficial to customers and electric vehicle owners. A weekly Costco run could also be a weekly charging session, making a process that can be frustrating part of a weekly shopping routine. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why Costco's experiment with fast EV charger could be a game changer
USA Today
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
How Costco's electric vehicle charging experiment could be a game changer for American drivers
One of America's largest retailers could make EV charging easier and faster for drivers. Costco is one of the few retailers in America where consumers can get an affordable slice of pizza just a few steps away from furniture, produce, and technology. Costco warehouses are essentially one-stop shops for everything folks need for their daily lives. The retailer even offers gasoline at certain locations (via their gas stations). Transportation is evolving and Costco plans to evolve with it, according to Electrek, an electric vehicle news site. The retailer will host fast EV charging stalls from Electric Era (an EV charging company) at a North Port, Florida location. Here's how this collaboration could change the way American Costco shoppers charge their EVs forever. Costco hosting fast EV charging stations developed by ex-SpaceX engineers Solving the electric vehicle charging infrastructure issue in America may seem like rocket science. That's why a team of former SpaceX engineers − the founders of Electric Era − might be the ideal group to tackle the lack of reliable fast EV chargers in the country. Electric Era provided Costco with six EV fast charging stalls in just 54 days. These charging stalls are capable of recharging a battery by up to 80% of its total capacity in 20 to 60 minutes. So, folks using these chargers could theoretically park their vehicles in a Costco parking lot, shop, and return to an EV that has a replenished battery. Positive non-Tesla charging experiences can be few and far between as electric vehicle market share drastically outpaces the amount of available reliable chargers in America. Over 9 million new electric vehicles were registered in 2024 according to Experian. Several automakers including General Motors are seeing record EV sales in 2025. Costco's experiment at its North Port, Florida location could lead to future partnerships with Electric Era on similar charging stations across its retail locations. There are at least 531 Costco warehouses in the U.S. according to a 2023 article by Visual Capitalist. Adding charging stations to Costco parking lots nationally could result in thousands of new fast charging stalls in America for EV owners (independent from any federal investments or incentives). Why is EV charging such a headache right now? Electric vehicle charging is on its way to becoming more ubiquitous, but it still has a long way to go. Part of the reason charging is such a headache to many electric vehicle owners is the lack of fast charging stalls and stations. Level 2 chargers can take hours to provide an EV with enough power to make a charging session beneficial to drivers. Level 3 charging stations are the most convenient types of charging stations thus far. They can provide more kilowatts than weaker Level 2 charging stations, providing significant battery percentage gains in under an hour. In comparison, it can take six to eight hours for a Level 2 charging stall to provide an adequate charging session. Tesla has partnered with several automakers including Hyundai, Kia, General Motors, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Honda, Acura, and more to allow Tesla Supercharger compatibility via adapters (that may be built into charging stalls). This partnership is good for non-Tesla EV owners, but it means more Tesla superchargers are being used than ever before, increasing the demand. What Costco's EV charging experiment could mean for electric vehicle owners If you don't have access to a reliable home charging system, electric vehicle charging can be anything but easy. EV owners without a home charger have to rely on public charging stations, which can be crowded and problematic. There are peak charging times where local public charging stations can amass crowds patiently waiting for their turns at the stall. Typically, there are only four to six stalls at a station. Charging stalls can be slower during peak hours and in extreme weather conditions. If Costco chooses to sign additional contracts with Electric Era, the retailer's parking lots could become extremely beneficial to customers and electric vehicle owners. A weekly Costco run could also be a weekly charging session, making a process that can be frustrating part of a weekly shopping routine.
Newsweek
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
AI-Enabled Electric Vehicle Charging Coming This Year
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Electric Era debuted the first artificial intelligence-enabled electric vehicle fast-charging stations this week. The technology is designed to deliver a more personalized charging experience courtesy of the company's Retailer AI software platform. The Retailer AI platform features a voice-activated user interface to bring personalized concierge experiences and retail engagement opportunities to life. "From the start, we looked at every opportunity to give our retail customers a richer EV charging experience that helps them use the refueling point of contact to grow their customer base and their business," Electric Era founder and CEO Quincy Lee, a former SpaceX engineer, told Newsweek. "I see Retailer AI as an extension of that, as a blank palette that retailers can use to design and activate their ultimate branded EV charging experience that reflects their brand identity and ability to engage with their customers in a more meaningful way," he said. Retailer AI aims to be a brand extension for retailers including convenience stores, grocers and restaurants. Users can order from the electric vehicle charger's screen. A large information screen uses AI technology to share messages to users. A large information screen uses AI technology to share messages to users. Electric Era The experience begins when an electric vehicle driver pulls up to an Electric Era charging station. In addition to typical charging station functionality, the station's AI technology can find restaurants, shopping centers and points of interest nearby, all while the screen displays the charging vehicle's vitals. "As an EV owner, I drive to unknown places often, and I look for charge locations that I can take advantage of my downtime to take a break, maybe find something to eat, or stop at a nearby store to get something I need," Lee said. "Having Retailer AI, drivers get a personal assistant that 'knows' who they are, their current situation, and engages them in a conversation to help them optimize their charge time productively. AI is as endless as our imagination, which is why we feel it's the ultimate platform for our retailer customers to leverage to better serve their customers and extend their retail space into the parking lot," he said.
