NATSO, representing travel centers and truck stops, and SIGMA, connecting fuel marketers across North America, applauded Pilot Travel Centers for being the first refueling location in the United States to activate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.

The NEVI program provides funding to states to strategically deploy EV charging stations and establish an interconnected network that facilitates data collection, access and reliability. Funding is available for up to 80% of eligible projects, including the acquisition, installation and network connection of EV charging stations; proper operation and maintenance of EV charging stations; and long-term EV charging station data sharing.

Underscoring the pivotal role that fuel retailers play in building out a safe and reliable nationwide network of DC fast-charging stations, NEVI grants have been awarded to many NATSO and SIGMA members, including BP, Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores, ONVO, Sheetz, Travel Centers of America, Wawa, Giant Eagle and Mirabito Convenience Stores.

NATSO and SIGMA applauded the truck stops, travel centers and fuel marketers who actively engaged with their lawmakers and regulators to pursue—and win—grant opportunities that will kickstart industry investments in electric fuel.

Earlier this month, Pilot Travel Centers announced the opening of the first 17 locations of its national EV fast charging network, created in partnership with General Motors and EVgo. The network is now available in 13 states.

By the end of 2023, the company expects that at least 25 Pilot and Flying J travel centers will feature EV fast charging, with approximately 200 locations targeted by the end of 2024. In total, the network will include up to 2,000 high-power fast-charging stalls at up to 500 Pilot and Flying J travel centers across the United States, connecting urban and rural communities.