Volvo Starbucks Charging Stations: Coffee Breaks Reimagined
Volvo Car USA and Starbucks have teamed up to launch a new electric vehicle (EV) fast charging network at selected Starbucks locations in the United States. This initiative, which involves the installation of 50 Volvo Cars-and-Starbucks-branded DC fast chargers across 15 Starbucks locations, aims to simplify EV charging for drivers. The Volvo Starbucks charging stations are conveniently situated along a 1,350-mile route stretching from Denver to Seattle, ensuring that EV drivers can easily recharge their vehicles while enjoying a cup of coffee.
The chargers are designed to provide up to 110 miles of range in just 15 minutes for 2024 model year and newer Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge models. They are placed approximately every 100 miles along the route, offering drivers of electric Volvos and other fully electric vehicles a reliable and familiar charging solution. This development is particularly beneficial for EV drivers who can now recharge their cars and relax with their favorite Starbucks beverages simultaneously.
The collaboration leverages the integrated ChargePoint app in fully electric Volvo models with Google embedded, enabling drivers to locate and access the charging stations at participating Starbucks locations. Drivers of other EVs equipped with standard CCS1 or CHAdeMO receptacles can use the ChargePoint smartphone app.
Mike Cottone, President of Volvo Car USA and Canada, emphasizes the significance of this partnership, noting the convenience of combining fast charging with the pleasant amenities offered by Starbucks. This approach not only recharges the vehicle but also provides a relaxing break for the driver.
Addressing the reliability of public charging infrastructure is a key focus of this initiative. Volvo in collaboration with Starbucks and ChargePoint is committed to maintaining the chargers, ensuring minimal downtime and enhancing the EV charging experience. The partnership reflects Volvo's goal to become a fully electric car company by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2040. Similarly, Starbucks aims to halve its carbon footprint by 2030 and lead in decarbonization solutions, including EV charging and onsite solar availability at its stores.
The Volvo Starbucks charging network spans several Federal Opportunity Zones, promoting equal access to charging infrastructure in previously underserved communities. The route offers scenic views and passes through iconic locations such as the Snoqualmie Pass in Washington, Snake River in Idaho, and Arches National Park in Utah. It epitomizes the American road trip, now accessible with zero tailpipe emissions for EV drivers.
Communities along the route benefiting from the Volvo Starbucks charging locations include Seattle, WA; Issaquah, WA; Yakima, WA; Hermiston, OR; La Grande, OR; Nampa, ID; Twin Falls, ID; Uintah, ID; Sandy, UT; Provo, UT; Grand Junction, CO; Glenwood Springs, CO; Silverthorne, CO; Idaho Springs, CO; and Broomfield, CO.
By placing chargers at Starbucks locations, Volvo is making EV charging as routine as grabbing a cup of coffee. For Starbucks, this alliance furthers their environmental initiatives and draws in customers who might spend more time at their locations while waiting for their vehicles to charge. It's a clever use of their existing real estate, turning their stores into hubs for a new kind of consumer – the EV driver. And as for the EV drivers - it offers a seamless and convenient charging experience and makes it practical for long trips and daily commutes. It also helps normalize EV use by integrating charging into everyday activities like getting coffee, which is essential for wider adoption of EV technology.
This year Volvo experienced a significant surge in global sales, achieving an 8% growth in November with 63,682 cars sold, contributing to a total of 632,701 cars sold worldwide from January to November, marking a 17% increase from the same period in 2022. No wonder 2024 Volvo EX90 has earned a place in the best 7-seater electric SUVs of 2023 list.
