Virginia DOT Rolls Out EV Charging Location Information
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The Virginia Department of Transportation on July 7 introduced a new feature to help drivers locate electric vehicle charging stations.
The location information is available on Virginia’s 511 traffic information website (511virginia.org) and mobile app.
Travelers can enable the “EV Charging Stations” layer when using the site, allowing them to view the locations of charging facilities throughout the state. Information includes the address of the specific facility (such as a gas station or hotel), the number of outlets it offers, the type of connectors available and the hours the station is accessible.
“Since 2002, VDOT has provided a robust and innovative traveler information resource for the commonwealth through the 511 Virginia program,” said VDOT Chief of Operations and Maintenance Kevin Gregg. “These upgrades are in keeping with current technology and the needs of the motoring public.”
Drivers can now find compatible places to charge their electric vehicle (EV) in Virginia by enabling the “EV Charging Stations” layer on https://t.co/Gf39YldzI4 or on the 511 mobile app.
Learn more https://t.co/sacYObDCdq pic.twitter.com/42ETByv76Q — VDOT (@VaDOT) July 7, 2021
VDOT sourced the location information from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy.
Alternative fuels — and the ability for travelers to locate them — have been prioritized in other states as well. The Illinois Department of Transportation announced July 7 that about 30 signs indicating alternative fuel corridors have been posted on interstates throughout the state. Another 20 signs are expected to go up later this summer.
The California Transportation Commission’s recent infrastructure investment of $1.18 billion included millions for the installation of electric charging stations and the purchase of battery-electric buses.
At the federal level, the administration’s efforts to tackle climate change have placed attention on electric vehicle charging infrastructure. President Joe Biden’s budget proposal, unveiled May 28, included a slew of investments meant to reduce emissions in the transportation sector.
Some $600 million was requested for electric vehicles and charging infrastructure in the individual budget of 18 federal agencies, including dedicated funds at the General Services Administration and for the U.S. Postal Service’s charging infrastructure.
Biden also established a goal to build a network of 500,000 electric vehicle chargers by 2030. To reach this goal, his plan proposes rebates for electric vehicles as a way to urge consumers to buy zero-emission vehicles.
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