Walmart has marked a significant milestone by opening its 100th company-owned EV fast-charging site, expanding its network across 20 states in the US. The latest site, located in Monument, Colorado, features high-powered chargers capable of delivering up to 400 kW. This development positions Walmart as a growing player in the EV charging landscape, leveraging its extensive retail footprint.
Walmart’s Fast-Charging Network Hits 100 Locations
The 100th Walmart EV fast-charging site is now open at the Walmart Supercenter on Jackson Creek Parkway in Monument, Colorado. This site includes eight charging plugs—four CCS1 and four NACS—each capable of delivering up to 400 kW. While most current EVs cannot utilize the full 400 kW, the infrastructure is designed to support future vehicle advancements.
Walmart’s fast-charging network now spans 100 stores across 20 states, with most locations offering between eight and sixteen plugs. The Monument site’s eight-plug configuration is typical for the company’s smaller charging stations.
Charger Technology and User Experience
Walmart is deploying 400-kW chargers from ABB E-mobility and Alpitronic. The ABB A400 All-in-One, installed at the Monument site, can deliver 200 kW to two EVs simultaneously or the full 400 kW to a single vehicle. Alpitronic’s HYC400 Hypercharger offers similar capabilities, with each unit serving two stalls via one CCS1 and one NACS cable.
A real-world test at an early Walmart site in McKinney, Texas, saw a GMC Hummer EV charge from 1% to 53% in 27 minutes, drawing over 300 kW, as reported by InsideEVs.
Walmart’s charging software is developed in-house by Walmart Global Tech. The system manages charger connectivity, live status, payments, and integration with mapping services like Apple Maps and Google Maps. Customers can locate, start, and monitor charging sessions directly through the Walmart app, with Walmart+ members receiving a discount. Additional payment options are planned as the network grows.
Network Expansion and Regional Reach
Walmart has stated its intention to install chargers at thousands of Walmart and Sam’s Club stores by 2030. With over 5,200 locations in the US and approximately 90% of Americans living within 10 miles (~16 km) of a Walmart, the company is well-positioned to make EV charging widely accessible.
The current rollout covers 20 states, with plans to expand further as demand for EV charging increases.
Competitor Comparison
Walmart’s 400 kW charging network enters a competitive field that includes Tesla’s Supercharger network, Electrify America, and ChargePoint. While Tesla’s V4 Superchargers are rolling out with up to 500 kW capability, and Electrify America offers widespread CCS coverage, Walmart’s advantage lies in its retail presence and integration with everyday shopping.
Unlike some competitors, Walmart’s approach integrates charging with its existing customer experience, potentially reducing range anxiety for EV owners who frequent its stores.
Historical Context
Walmart’s expansion into EV charging comes on the back of strong financial performance, with sales reaching $642.6B (~AUD 902.9B) in FY 2024, representing a 6% year-over-year increase. This growth supports the company’s investment in new infrastructure and technology.
Why this matters
The rapid growth of Walmart’s fast-charging network demonstrates a major retailer’s commitment to supporting EV adoption in the US. By leveraging its vast store network and in-house technology, Walmart is making high-speed charging more accessible to a broad segment of drivers.
This expansion could help address one of the main barriers to EV ownership—convenient and reliable charging—especially in regions where other networks may have limited coverage.
What this means for buyers
For EV owners and prospective buyers, Walmart’s growing charging network offers more options for fast, convenient charging during routine shopping trips. With most Americans living within a short drive of a Walmart, the availability of high-powered chargers could make EV ownership more practical.
Buyers should consider the compatibility of their vehicles with CCS1 and NACS plugs, and take advantage of Walmart+ discounts where available. As the network expands, expect even greater convenience and payment flexibility.
Key Specs
- Number of Fast-Charging Sites: 100
- States Covered: 20
- Charger Power Output: Up to 400 kW
- Plug Types: CCS1 and NACS
- Typical Plugs per Site: 8 to 16
- Hardware Models: ABB A400 All-in-One, Alpitronic HYC400 Hypercharger
- Walmart US Locations: 5,200+
- Population Within 10 Miles (~16 km): About 90% of Americans
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, evdances.com, designnews.com
