Walmart Accelerates EV Push: Hundreds of Stores to Add Charging Stations in 19 States
In a major step toward supporting the nation's transition to electric vehicles, Walmart has begun rolling out new EV charging stations at hundreds of its store parking lots across 19 states. The initiative marks a significant expansion of a plan first announced last year to establish a comprehensive charging network at Walmart and Sam's Club locations nationwide.
The retail giant, which already hosts chargers at some sites, recently updated its online map to show "coming soon" status for dozens of additional locations. This move places Walmart at the forefront of retail-based EV infrastructure, leveraging its vast real estate footprint to address one of the key barriers to EV adoption: convenient, reliable public charging.
"Our scale allows us to offer a charging solution that few can match," said Vishal Kapadia, Walmart's Senior Vice President of Energy Transformation, in a 2023 statement. "With a store or club within 10 miles of nearly 90% of Americans, we are uniquely positioned to make EV ownership more feasible for customers in rural, suburban, and urban communities alike."
Analysts note that Walmart's strategy serves a dual purpose: it attracts longer-dwelling customers likely to shop while their vehicles charge, and it aligns the company with federal sustainability initiatives and consumer demand for eco-friendly services. The company aims to have its nationwide charging network fully operational by 2030.
Drivers will need to use the Walmart app to initiate sessions, pay for charging, and monitor their vehicle's status. A full list of locations with active or upcoming stations is available on the company's website.
What People Are Saying
Michael Torres, EV Owner in Phoenix: "This is a game-changer for road trips. Knowing I can reliably charge at a Walmart, grab groceries, and use the restroom all in one stop removes a huge layer of anxiety. It's a smart, practical move."
David Chen, Urban Planning Analyst: "Walmart is effectively turning its parking lots into energy hubs. This has significant implications for grid demand in smaller towns and could accelerate EV adoption rates in regions underserved by dedicated charging networks."
Rebecca Shaw, Small Business Advocate: "Oh, fantastic. Another massive corporation using its scale to dominate a growing market. This will stifle independent charging startups and further cement Walmart's control over our daily lives—all wrapped in a greenwashed bow."
Priya Mehta, Sustainability Consultant: "The accessibility factor cannot be overstated. For communities without home charging options, this provides a critical, familiar, and often well-lit location. It democratizes EV infrastructure in a meaningful way."
This report is based on original reporting from MLive.