The Electrifying Future of EV Charging
Non-Tesla EV charging in North America is kind of a dumpster fire today, but the future's so bright I have to wear shades.
Ted Hebert
11/26/20233 min read
Hello there, dear EV lover. If you're like me, you've probably spent a good chunk of your life waiting: in line for coffee, for the end of a bad date, or for that one friend who's always fashionably late. But as we cruise (quite literally) into the future, there's something else we're waiting less on: charging our electric vehicles (EVs). That's right, the future of EV charging is zapping its way to us faster than you can say "2 of 4 stalls are down at EA." The next five years will see a sea change in EV adoption and charging.
Lightning Fast Charging: Ultra-Fast Chargers
Remember when charging your EV felt like watching paint dry? Well, no more. We're talking about ultra-fast chargers that can get your EV from "help me, I'm dying" to "let's hit the road, Jack" in less time than it takes to watch an episode of "TFL EV" (love those guys). These bad boys will start popping up faster than Starbucks. From Mercedes' DCFC network to Rivian's Adventure network to BP buying $100,000,000 worth of Tesla V4 chargers, there will be hundreds, if not thousands, of DCFC stalls going in the ground in 2024 and beyond.
And let's not forget the biggest DCFC news of all; Tesla opening their Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs in 2024. It has already begun at a small number of Supercharger locations with the Magic Dock that has a built in CCS adapter that can be unlocked via the Tesla app.
All of the above means more DCFC charging options from more providers. Let's hope increased competition among CPOs will bring down the cost of charging even more. OK, maybe that is too much to hope for.
Charge Anywhere, Because Why Not?
Gone are the days when finding an EV charger was like playing a sadistic version of "Where's Waldo?" Future level 2 charging stations will be more common than Spirit Halloween pop-ups in October. Imagine charging at your favorite coffee shop, the grocery store, or while you're sweating it out at the gym. Convenience is key, and the future is all about making life easier (and funnier, hopefully).
Wireless Charging: Because Cords are So 2020
Picture this: You park your EV, and it starts charging. No cables, no fuss. Just like how I imagine my phone charges itself - magically and without my involvement. Wireless charging is not just a dream; it's becoming a reality. It's like Wi-Fi for your car. Welcome to the future, where tripping over cords is a thing of the past.
Battery Swapping: The Quick-Change Artist
Ever wished you could swap your EV's battery faster than Ryan Reynolds can deliver a one-liner? Well, you're in luck. Battery swapping technology is happening, allowing you to exchange a depleted battery for a fully charged one in minutes. You can't swap your iPhone battery (sore subject?), but if EV maker Nio has their way, you'll be able to swap your EV battery faster than you can pound a pumpkin spice latte.
Home Charging: Your Personal Power Station
Home is where the heart is, and it's also where the charge is. Home charging is getting a major upgrade, with smarter, faster, and more efficient systems. You can manage your charging from your phone, all while liking tweets or ignoring emails. Or watching YouTube videos about EVs... Like right here.
Renewable Energy: Charging Up, Green Style
The future of EV charging isn't just about speed and convenience; it's also about being kind to Mother Earth. More charging stations will use renewable energy like solar or wind power. We may even get smart about clean nuclear power. It's like giving the planet a big, warm hug, which is always in style.
Wrap It Up, Big Mouth
So, what's the bottom line? The future of EV charging is looking brighter, faster, and more convenient. It's a world where waiting hours for a charge is as outdated as your 2005 haircut. We're stepping into an era where EV charging is not just a necessity, but a seamless part of our daily lives - just like streaming Mark Wahlberg movies on Netflix.
And with that, I leave you to ponder the electrifying future while I go off to make more questionable fashion choices. Drive fast, charge safe... eh... Drive safe, charge fast, and keep smiling. The future is almost here, and it's pretty darn awesome. And we all know... It's OK to be AWESOME!

