$51 Million In New EV Charger Funding Available In Michigan

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The state of Michigan is not an electric vehicle leader among US states. However, we have seen some progress in EV charger installations in the state. Most recently, the Michigan Department of Transportation announced new National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funds are now available. “MDOT is now authorized to begin investing the remaining $51 million in discretionary NEVI formula funds to accelerate the deployment of EV charging infrastructure. This funding will help strategically expand fast charging infrastructure, close critical gaps in Michigan’s EV charging network, support economic development and ensure that Michigan remains a leader in mobility innovation.”

New fast charger installations are exactly what is needed to support long-distance EV trips because the slower Level 2 chargers only charge about 30–40 miles per hour. A fast charger can deliver about a 10–80 percent charge in approximately the same time. EV drivers may drive for a couple of hours and need to take a biobreak, or simply want to stop and take a quick walk, including maybe walking a dog. Fast chargers located near or at food and beverage outlets provide bathrooms, rest areas, walking areas, etc. So, EV drivers can stop to charge for 40 minutes and do other things at the same time. After charging, they can easily continue on for another couple of hours and repeat. If they start with full charge or near a full one, they may only need one or two stops to recharge for a day’s driving. Some EV drivers manage to find free slow chargers at hotels or motels along their way so they can pay for a night’s lodging and refuel at no cost.

While some individuals believe EVs need to have a ridiculous amount of range, such as 600 miles per charge, this belief is actually false. They only need enough range to get to the next charging station by the time they need a break, and more and more public chargers are being installed at a consistent pace to make that easier and easier. The new Michigan plan to have public EV chargers within reach of many more drivers is all about that. “Harden said the state has already identified more than 80 charging sites through its first two funding rounds, focused largely on major highways and travel corridors, with a goal of placing chargers every 60 miles.”

If there are public EV chargers that charge your car quickly every 60 miles in Michigan along major arteries and roads, an EV would not need a huge amount of range.

In the last year or so, there has been some notable EV charging progress in Michigan. See:

Add dozens of new fast chargers coming now as well from the release of the NEVI funding.