In Washington State, USA, the electric vehicle charging services provider EVCS has begun the construction and upgrade of its fast charging network across the state. By the end of this year, 52 DC fast chargers will be added across 21 locations.
For the first time, EVCS will be deploying ultra-fast chargers with 175 kW and 350 kW. EVCS says that each location will also be equipped with a Level 2 charger and a 110V outlet.
The charging stations will, therefore, offer the ability to serve all EVs, including fully battery electric and plug-in hybrid EVs, as well as e-bikes and e-scooters.
The network expansion will add charging services to 9 new charging locations that include Port Townsend, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, Kingston, and Port Orchard.
The new stations should benefit residents, tourists, and commuters who rely on the ferry. New locations will also launch along the Cascade Loop National Scenic Byway, with new locations launching in Twisp, Pateros, and Newhalem.
These stations should help alleviate range anxiety for those driving electric vehicles along the scenic route.
EVCS was awarded grants from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) in September 2022 under the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Partnerships (ZEVIP) program.
EVCS is now building upon its 12 original charging locations as part of the West Coast Electric Highway acquisition.
In July 2022, EVCS announced it would add 300 Tritium chargers across California, Oregon, and Washington as part of the West Coast Electric Highway. The Washington upgrade of the West Coast Electric Highway started in December 2022.
Although the press statement just released to announce the network expansion has not mentioned the DC charging supplier, EVCS has been deploying Tritium fast chargers since November 2021, when EVCS turned to Tritium to expand the EV charging network along the US West Coast.
In 2021, more than 500 Tritium fast chargers were ordered by EVCS, ranging from 50 kW to 175 kW.