Hey everybody, welcome back to the Elon Musk Podcast. This is a show where we discuss the critical Crossroads, the Shape, SpaceX, Tesla X, The Boring Company, and Neuralink. I'm your host, Will Walden, an unlikely company to get into the
electric vehicle sector. Starbucks is introducing charging stations at select US locations in collaboration with Volvo, and this initiative has led to the establishment of EV charging stations at 15 Starbucks locations along a 1000 mile route between Denver and Seattle.
Now, this move is a step in addressing the charging infrastructure deficit in North America, according to Volvo and according to Starbucks Now. The project encompasses 50 Volvo charging stations spread across Starbucks stores in Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. The stations are equipped to recharge any electric vehicle that supports CCS 1 or CHA demo connectors, broadening the accessibility for various kinds of EV models.
Now Starbucks and Volvo have shared insights into their decision to pursue this venture. They identified a gap in the EV charging infrastructure, especially along the corridor connecting Seattle and Denver. This initiative is seen as an opportunity to bridge this gap, catering to the needs of a growing number of EV owners in the region. Also, it brings people to their shops and Starbucks is not alone in its ventures into the EV charging market.
Other food and retail chains like Taco Bell, Whole Foods, 711 and Subway and also numerous hotels are either adding or planning to add EV chargers. This trend is a response to the increased interest in E VS among American consumers and the subsequent need for more charging stations. Now, most US electric vehicles, excluding those made by Tesla, use the CCS 1 connector for charging.
The CCS, or Combined Charging System, is widely adopted standard in North America. Additionally, the Chad demo connectors developed in Japan and used by some Asian car manufacturers are also supported now Tesla, having developed its own unique charging connector in port known as the North American Charging Standard or knacks, has recently allowed other automatic
cars to utilize this design. And many leading automakers including General Motors, Ford, Volvo, Hyundai, Honda and Mercedes to name a few, are now adopting knacks for their new EV models. Starbucks, recognizing the evolving landscape of EV charging, plans to include stations compatible with Tesla's NECS connectors. The company is also exploring partnerships with other automakers to expand its EV charging station network.
Now, as part of its sustainability commitments, Starbucks is working with Volvo Cars to install up to 60 DC fast chargers along a scenic 13150 mile route. Now this is powered by Chargepoint, and it began with the first installation at a Starbucks in Provo, UT. Now, this project is a component of Starbucks broader effort to expand its renewable energy and decarbonization initiatives across the United States, aligning with its environmental
sustainability goals. And the choosing route for this EV charging station offers travelers the chance to visit iconic locations in the West, such as Snoqualmie Pass in Washington, the Snake River in Idaho, and the Arches National Park in Utah. Now this enhances the appeal for Rd. trips for all of these EV drivers, and this is a stop along the way. People love Starbucks, so they're going to go to Starbucks anyway. You may as well charge your car while you're there.
Now with the Target to cut its global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030, Starbucks is redefining its store experience to foster greater connectivity, convenience and positive environmental impact. Introducing the EV charging station is part of this whole system. The broader ambition for Starbucks is to get people to their stores to buy their goods, and it's really nice to be able to charge your car while you're waiting in line for an espresso.
A charge points DC fast chargers can efficiently recharge vehicles like the Volvo C40 Recharge from 20% to 90% in about 40 minutes. However, this efficiency is subject to various factors including temperature conditions, battery health in the specifics of the charging. Edit this out in the specifics of the charging equipment and the vehicle. Just a little side note, this is not a sponsored podcast today. This is this is a news podcast. It's not sponsored by Starbucks or Volvo.
But Starbucks entry into the EV charging market signifies an important shift in the retail and service industry. Acknowledging the growing demand for EV infrastructure and by integrating charging stations into their locations, Starbucks is actively contributing to the expansion of the EV charging network in the United States. The introduction of EV charging stations by Starbucks. It has been met with positive responses by both consumers and industry experts.
This move is seen as a proactive step in catering to the needs of US EV owners and promoting the use of electric vehicles. Now Starbucks has said that they have an interest in further expanding its network of EV charging stations. Could you imagine going to Starbucks anywhere you are along the highway stopping, hinting at potential collaborations with other automakers? Starbucks is doing too, possibly Tesla in the future. And while you're inside getting your coffee, you charge your car.
This could also be a major revenue stream for the future, because eventually we're all going to be paying for charging. No matter who we are, no matter what kind of car we run, it's going to be pay to play. So charge you for your coffee, Also charge you for your charging, and it's only a matter of time before all retail locations have charging in their parking lots. Thank you so much for tuning into the show today. I really do appreciate your
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