Walmart is making big moves in the electric vehicle charging space by deploying ABB all-in-one DC fast chargers for electric cars. The American retail giant is stepping up its efforts to cover the country with 400 kW chargers, starting with installations in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The ABB E-mobility A400 all-in-one 400-kilowatt DC fast charger is now being rolled out at several Walmart stores in Phoenix. This type of charger can deliver up to 400 kW to a single connected electric vehicle and can dynamically manage power output to each EV if two cars are charging simultaneously. The charger comes equipped with dual CCS and NACS connectors, ensuring compatibility with the majority of EVs on the road in the United States.
Walmart plans to install ABB’s all-in-one chargers at nine locations in the coming months, with a total of 38 stalls set to become operational. The company has even grander plans, with thousands of 400 kW EV chargers slated for installation by 2030. The first sites to go online will be in Mesa, Tempe, Apache Junction, and Queen Creek.
The chargers exclusively use 400 kW power levels, with the first units coming from Alpitronic. These all-in-one solutions feature two charging cables and have a maximum current output of 600 amps with Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductors for high efficiency. A notable difference between ABB and Alpitronic’s chargers is the screen size, with ABB opting for a 32-inch LCD display compared to Alpitronic’s 15.6-inch screen.
Both chargers can accommodate card readers for contactless payments, but the units at Walmart and Sam’s Club locations do not have this feature. Instead, EV drivers will need to use Walmart’s smartphone app to initiate charging sessions and make payments.
Brandt Hastings, President North America at ABB E-mobility, expressed excitement about the partnership with Walmart, stating, “Launching in the Phoenix metro area is the first step in what will become the most ambitious retail charging rollout in the United States.” He emphasized the combination of trusted retail access with reliable charging infrastructure that meets current driver needs and can scale with future demand.
Walmart’s network of DC fast chargers has rapidly expanded from a few stalls last year to over 200 ports currently. With the deployment of ABB’s 400 kW chargers and ambitious plans for further expansion, Walmart is positioning itself as a major player in the EV charging market. Walmart, the retail giant, has announced plans to expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure by installing thousands more 400 kW dispensers at its stores nationwide. This move is part of Walmart’s commitment to sustainability and supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles.
The company’s existing DC fast charging network already has hundreds of ports, making it one of the largest retail-based EV charging networks in the country. By adding thousands more charging stations, Walmart aims to make it easier for customers to charge their electric vehicles while shopping or running errands.
Walmart has been actively investing in EV charging infrastructure and has been remodeling stores to include ‘coast-to-coast’ EV fast charging capabilities. The new 400 kW dispensers are expected to provide even faster charging speeds, allowing EV owners to quickly top up their batteries while on the go.
This initiative aligns with Walmart’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy sources. By expanding its EV charging network, Walmart is not only supporting the transition to electric vehicles but also making sustainable transportation more accessible to its customers.
The retail giant’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its efforts to integrate EV charging infrastructure into its stores. By installing thousands more 400 kW dispensers, Walmart is taking a proactive approach to supporting the growing EV market and reducing the carbon footprint of its operations.
Overall, Walmart’s investment in EV charging infrastructure reflects a larger trend towards sustainable transportation and renewable energy adoption. By expanding its network of fast charging stations, Walmart is helping to build a more sustainable future for both its customers and the planet.