If electric vehicles (EVs) are ever going to shift into the fast lane in the United States, the nation needs a better charging infrastructure. And Starbucks and Volvo are emerging as a driving force in making that happen. The two companies joined forces to create a public network of high-speed chargers spanning the western U.S. The pilot route was chosen for maximum impact—it’s an area Starbucks’ chief sustainability officer Michael Kobori calls a “charging desert.” With 60 ChargePoint machines strategically placed every 100 miles (161 kilometers) or so, the network will allow drivers to road trip without range anxiety. Speed was also a consideration. The project team is deploying machines that can take EV batteries from empty to 80% charged in as little as 20 minutes—just the right amount of time to enjoy a latte. The coffee king is now considering expanding the project nationwide—a move that could make a big impact on not only the EV market but also the planet. Click the link in ...