The landscape of electric vehicle (EV) adoption is evolving, and Volvo Car USA and Starbucks have taken a significant stride forward by introducing the first public electric-vehicle fast charging network at select Starbucks locations across the United States.
Fifty Volvo Cars-and-Starbucks-branded DC fast chargers strategically positioned at 15 Starbucks stores along a 1,350-mile stretch from the Denver area to Seattle are reshaping the charging experience for Volvo and other fully electric vehicles. This network, spaced approximately every 100 miles, boasts the capability to provide up to 110 miles of charge in as little as 15 minutes, specifically tailored for 2024 model year and newer Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge models.
The collaboration aims to simplify the EV charging process, transforming it into an easy, familiar routine akin to visiting Starbucks. Positioned strategically, these chargers enable EV drivers to recharge their vehicles while enjoying the comfort of Starbucks offerings.
Mike Cottone, President of Volvo Car USA and Canada, highlighted the partnership's value, stating, "The value of this partnership is offering fast charging with great amenities. These Starbucks locations provide a perfect stop along a long drive to relax and quickly recharge not only the car, but the driver."
Reliability in public charging infrastructure remains a significant hurdle in EV adoption. Volvo Car USA has stepped up to address this concern by collaborating with Starbucks and ChargePoint to ensure the maintenance of its chargers along the designated route. Utilizing a blend of virtual monitoring and on-site inspections allows swift response to any issues, minimizing downtime and customer inconvenience.
Echoing Volvo Cars' commitment to becoming fully electric by 2030 and climate neutral by 2040, Starbucks is aligning its sustainability goals, aiming to halve its carbon footprint by 2030 and pioneer decarbonization solutions, including Electric Vehicle charging and on-site solar availability at its stores and neighboring locations.
Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "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. 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."
Beyond convenience and sustainability, this initiative spans communities previously underserved in charging infrastructure, particularly in Federal Opportunity Zones. The route not only caters to these communities but also traverses scenic landscapes, passing through national forests and iconic landmarks, offering zero tailpipe-emission travel experiences for EV drivers.
The communities benefiting from Volvo Cars' chargers at Starbucks locations along this expansive route include Seattle, Issaquah, Yakima, and Hermiston in Washington; La Grande and Sandy in Oregon; Nampa, Twin Falls, and Uintah in Idaho; Provo and Salt Lake City in Utah; Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, and Idaho Springs in Colorado; and Silverthorne and Broomfield in Colorado.
This trailblazing collaboration between Volvo Cars and Starbucks is more than just about EV charging—it's a bold step toward a sustainable, accessible, and enjoyable driving experience. From supporting communities to revolutionizing the road trip landscape, this partnership sets a new standard in facilitating electric mobility and underscores the possibilities when industry leaders join forces for a more sustainable future.
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