So which state has the lead on electric vehicles? Perhaps California? Or Oregon? While they may seem like the obvious answers given their extensive green car push, the answer is actually: Illinois.
That’s because Illinois Governor Pat Quinn (pictured) has announced the availability of the largest network of fast charging electric vehicle stations in the US to date.
A total of 26 fast chargers have been installed through the Chicago EV Infrastructure Project; with a total of 73 fast chargers planned.
The city of Chicago itself is at the centre of the push – it is overseeing the installation of 280 charging stations with a budget of $8.8million. This includes $1.9million in public funding with $6.9million in private investment.
One of the keys to success has been partnerships with charging station hosts including 7-Eleven convenience stores.
In order to use the fast chargers, drivers must first buy a payment card from 350Green. It costs $21 and accounts for three 15 minute sessions.
The Green Car Website