Volvo Cars and Starbucks have teamed up to improve electric vehicle charging. The result is the first public EV fast charging network located at some of the coffee company’s U.S. stores. Here’s a look at the Volvo-Starbucks EV charging network.
50 Chargers at 15 Locations
The new Volvo Cars-and-Starbucks-branded DC fast chargers are located along a 1,350-mile route between Denver, Colorado and Seattle, Washington. In total, there are 50 new chargers located in 15 locations. The chargers are placed about every 100 miles on average. Volvo says that the DC fast chargers can provide up to 110 miles of driving range in as little as 15 minutes for its 2024 model year and newer XC40 and C40 Recharge models. Of course, the charging network is open to other electric models as well.
About the Route
The 1,350-mile route crosses several Federal Opportunity Zones. This will bring equal access to communities who previously may not have had access to charging infrastructure. The route also passes near six national forests. The route spans an area from the Snoqualmie Pass in Washington to the Snake River in Idaho to Arches National Park in Utah. And it connects outdoor destinations like Park City and Vail. The charging network offers EV drivers familiar places to recharge their cars and themselves. While a car is charging its passengers can be nestled up to their fav Starbucks beverage.
Finding a Volvo-Starbucks Charging Station
Those with fully electric Volvo vehicles with Google embedded can use the car’s ChargePoint app to find Starbucks charging locations. Drivers of other EVs equipped with a standard CCS1 or CHAdeMO receptacle can use the ChargePoint smartphone app. And a solid effort is being made to ensure that the network is reliable. Volvo is working with Starbucks and ChargePoint to take on the responsibility of maintaining its chargers along the route. A combination of virtual and in-person monitoring supports quick response to problems, minimizing down time and consumer frustration.
Fast Charging and Amenities
“The value of this partnership is offering fast charging with great amenities,” said Mike Cottone, President, Volvo Car USA and Canada. “These Starbucks locations provide a perfect stop along a long drive to relax and quickly recharge not only the car, but the driver.” Starbucks also weighed in. “Public EV charging should be as easy as getting a great cup of coffee – and now, it can be thanks to our partnership with Volvo Car USA,” said Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer. “As we reimagine the Starbucks Experience of the future, we’re excited to invite our customers on our journey to become a resource positive company.”
Communities Along the Route
Below are a list of the communities that benefit from the Volvo chargers at Starbucks stores:
Seattle, Washington
Issaquah, Washington
Yakima, Washington
Hermiston, Oregon
La Grande, Oregon
Nampa, Idaho
Twin Falls, Idaho
Uintah, Idaho
Sandy, Utah
Provo, Utah
Grand Junction, Colorado
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Silverthorne, Colorado
Idaho Springs, Colorado
Broomfield, Colorado