A new phase in EV fast charging is underway as Walmart and Ionna aggressively expand their networks with some of the lowest prices in the industry. According to InsideEVs, both companies are undercutting established players like Tesla and Electrify America, signaling a potential price war that could benefit EV drivers across the U.S. and Canada.
Walmart and Ionna Expand Charging Networks
Walmart and Ionna are rapidly rolling out new EV fast charging stations across North America. Walmart has installed hundreds of chargers in recent months, using 400-kW Alpitronic and ABB E-mobility A400 DC fast chargers that support both NACS and CCS plugs. Walmart+ customers receive a 10% discount on charging, further lowering costs.
Ionna, backed by eight major automakers including BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, and Toyota, has committed to building 30,000 fast charging ports in the U.S. and Canada by 2030. Many Ionna stations offer amenities such as convenience stores and restrooms, aiming to make charging more convenient for drivers.
Aggressive Pricing Shakes Up the Market
Data from Chargenomics shows Ionna leads the market with an average price of $0 (~AUD 1) per kWh, the lowest among 17 networks analyzed. Walmart follows closely, ranking as the fourth cheapest at $0 (~AUD 1) per kWh. Shell Recharge and Rocky Mountain Power are the only networks with lower prices than Walmart.
For comparison, Tesla and Electrify America charge an average of $1 (~AUD 1) per kWh. Charging a 2024 Chevy Blazer EV at Ionna would save drivers about 40% compared to Electrify America. Ionna has also offered limited-time discounts as low as $0 (~AUD 0) per kWh to attract new customers.
Competitor Comparison
Walmart and Ionna are not alone in the fast charging space. BC Hydro EV operates over 700 ports across British Columbia, offering 100 kW+ fast charging and value pricing, making it a leading utility network in Canada. Circle K is expanding its EV charging presence in Canada, particularly in British Columbia, and is growing alongside major retailers.
Costco, a major retail rival to Walmart, is also rolling out EV fast charging at its locations, often drawing direct comparisons from consumers. These developments highlight the increasing competition among retail and utility-based charging networks in North America.
Historical Context
Walmart’s expansion into EV charging comes on the back of strong financial performance, with a 5.5% increase in net sales in Canada for fiscal year 2025 and a 4% year-over-year rise in Q1 2025. E-commerce sales in Canada also surged by 30% in the same period, reflecting the company’s growing influence in both retail and digital sectors.
These trends provide Walmart with the scale and resources to negotiate lower equipment and utility costs, enabling aggressive pricing in the EV charging market.
Why this matters
The entry of Walmart and Ionna into the EV fast charging market with lower prices is likely to drive increased competition and put downward pressure on charging costs for consumers. With over 90% of EV charging still happening at home, affordable and accessible public fast charging is crucial for long-distance travel and for drivers without home charging options.
As more networks compete on price and amenities, EV ownership becomes more attractive and practical, accelerating the transition to electric mobility across North America.
What this means for buyers
EV drivers should pay close attention to new charging options from Walmart, Ionna, and other emerging networks, as lower prices and improved amenities could significantly reduce the cost and hassle of public charging. Comparing rates and locations can help maximize savings, especially for those who rely on fast charging for regular travel.
With more retail and utility networks entering the market, expect continued improvements in coverage, convenience, and pricing in the coming years.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more insights on the evolving EV charging landscape, see Absurdly Fast EV Chargers Are Coming To America, But Cars Aren’t Ready.
Key Specs
- Ionna Average Price: $0 (~AUD 1) per kWh
- Walmart Average Price: $0 (~AUD 1) per kWh
- Tesla/Electrify America Average Price: $1 (~AUD 1) per kWh
- Walmart Charger Power: 400 kW
- Ionna Planned Ports: 30,000 by 2030 (U.S. and Canada)
- Walmart+ Charging Discount: 10%
- BC Hydro EV Ports: 700+ (100 kW+ capability)
- Home Charging Cost (U.S. average): $0 (~AUD 0) per kWh
Source
Images sourced from: insideevs.com, greencars.com, caranddriver.com
