7-Eleven aims to make its new EV charging network among the largest in North America

IRVING, Texas  –  7‑Eleven, Inc. aims to have one of the largest electric vehicle (EV) charging networks across North America with the launch of 7Charge.

Its new, proprietary EV charging network and app is positioned to deliver convenient and reliable fast-charging experience at select 7-Eleven stores in the U.S. and, eventually, Canada.

In a release, the c-store giant says it "intends to build one of the largest and most compatible electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging networks of any retailer in North America with the launch of 7Charge." There are about 32 fast-charging stations already up and running in Florida, Texas, Colorado and California.

The new 7Charge sites enable customers to charge any EV make and model compatible with common CHAdeMO or Combined Charging System (CCS) plug types (provided the driver has the correct adaptor). 

The accompanying 7Charge app (available from the App Store, Google play or 7-Eleven.com/7charge) aims to provide customers with a seamless charging and payment experience. Should they prefer, customers can also pay by credit card at the charger. 

Pricing will be based on either energy (kWh) consumed and/or time spent charging, depending on the laws of the state. The company notes there may be additional fees if a vehicle is left connected to the station for an extended period after the charging session has been completed. However, drivers can turn on notifications from the account settings screen in the 7Charge app to receive an SMS and/or email once their charge is complete.

“For over 95 years, 7‑Eleven has innovated to meet our customers’ needs – delivering convenience where, when and how they want it,” 7-Eleven president and CEO, Joe DePinto, said in a release. “Now, we are innovating once again to meet our customers' where they are by expanding our business to provide EV drivers convenience of the future...today.”

The company says the new 7Charge network will "deliver on the growing consumer need for EV charging infrastructure." By expanding the 7Charge network, while continuing to utilize third-party fast-charging network options, 7‑Eleven says it will have the ability to grow its network to match consumer demand and make EV charging available in areas that previously lacked access.

Backed by 100% green electricity, the chargers are to be "located on often-travelled corridors, in well-lit store locations that are staffed 24 hours, seven days a week." 7-Eleven, which has a strong hold on urban centres across North America, 

Based in Irving, Texas, 7‑Eleven operates, franchises and/or licenses more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada. It also operates and franchises Speedway, Stripes, Laredo Taco Company and Raise the Roost Chicken and Biscuits locations. The company says its fast-charging network is to roll out across its entire family of brands, including Speedway and Stripes stores.