In recognition of the need for more public charging stations, 7-Eleven has revealed plans to establish a comprehensive and widely compatible fast-charging network across the U.S. and Canada, allowing electric vehicle owners to recharge their cars quickly while they stop to purchase food or beverages at 7-Eleven stores.
“For over 95 years, 7‑Eleven has innovated to meet our customers’ needs—delivering convenience where, when and how they want it.”
Joe DePinto, CEO of 7-Eleven
“Now, we are innovating once again to meet our customers where they are by expanding our business to provide EV drivers convenience of the future… today,” said CEO Joe DePinto.
The company has already put up a few 7Charge stations in several states, including California, Colorado, Florida and Texas. The fast-charging units that 7-Eleven is setting up will be able to charge electric vehicles with both Combined Charging System (CCS) and CHAdeMO plug types. These chargers will be installed not only at 7-Eleven stores but also at other retail outlets owned by the company, such as Speedway and Stripes convenience stores.
While it is uncertain whether all of its over 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada will be equipped with EV chargers, the units that will be installed will be powered by 100 percent green electricity. Additionally, the chargers will have staff available around the clock, a feature not often found in current charging stations.
Customers can pay for their EV charging through the 7Charge app or by using a standard credit card at the charger. The cost will depend on the kilowatts consumed or the charging duration, following state regulations. In addition, 7-Eleven’s app and a QR code on the charger can provide information on rates and pricing policies for each location.
The limited availability of public charging infrastructure in the U.S. is currently a major obstacle to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Experts have long argued that charging stations should be as common as gas stations or convenience stores like 7-Eleven to encourage more people to use electric vehicles.