Flo and Metro to add EV chargers at 130 locations in Quebec and Ontario
According to Statista, the electric vehicle (EV) market in Canada is poised to see significant growth in the next few years, with over 250,000 electric vehicles being sold by 2028.
To be ready for all these vehicles, Flo, a North American provider of EV charging solutions and Metro Inc. announced a partnership to provide fast charging at more than 130 Metro, Super C, Food Basics and Marché Adonis grocery store locations across Quebec and Ontario. The partnership, which will install at least 500 fast charging ports starting in August.
“This partnership is about integrating the best EV charging experience into daily life and making it as routine as grocery shopping,” says Louis Tremblay, Flo president and CEO. “Making public charging options widely available is key for Canada to achieve its environmental goals and transition to an emission-free transportation sector. By establishing fast charging stations at more than 130 grocery stores across Quebec and Ontario, we're laying the groundwork to accelerate the transition.”
READ: EV drivers on long trips use fast chargers and on-site amenities when charging
“Metro is committed to adopting short-term, science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets for its direct and indirect emissions,” adds Michel Avigliano, vice-president, real estate and engineering, Metro. “Through this partnership, we are taking action to reduce our indirect emissions linked to the transport of our customers, while contributing to the collective effort of transition towards a more low-carbon economy.”
A significant number of these new installations are supported by Flo’s partnership with the Canadian Infrastructure Bank (CIB), which committed $235 million to Flo bringing more than 1,900 public fast charging ports online across Canada by 2027.
“The CIB is investing in critical EV infrastructure which meets drivers' needs for the future, in communities big and small, across the country. Grocery stores are essential for our daily necessities and thriving communities. By combining high speed charging options for EV drivers in the places they frequent the most, we are moving closer to ending EV owners’ range anxiety,” said Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank.
The more than 130 grocery stores will feature the new dual port Flo Ultra fast charger. With up to 320 kW of available power, the Flo Ultra charger will charge most new EVs to 80% in 15 minutes. Flo’s Ultra fast charger is capable of up to 500kW when paired with a second Flo Ultra charger. Its flexible and modular design and extended cable length facilitates charging on one or on both sides, creating ease of use for all types of makes and models.
