Walmart rolls out ABB A400 EV fast chargers at seven sites in metro Phoenix

Walmart is accelerating its expansion into electric vehicle (EV) charging by partnering with ABB e-mobility to install A400 All-in-One DC fast chargers at seven stores in the Phoenix metropolitan area. This rollout is part of a broader plan to deploy 38 ABB chargers across nine locations in the region over the coming months. With over 5,200 Walmart and Sam’s Club stores nationwide, the company aims to leverage its extensive footprint, noting that 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart, to establish a widespread and convenient charging network. The new charging stations are designed to integrate seamlessly with Walmart’s retail environment, allowing customers to initiate charging sessions directly through the Walmart app. According to Adam Happel, General Manager of Walmart EV Charging, the initiative aligns with the company’s mission to offer customers a convenient and affordable way to charge their vehicles without disrupting their shopping routines. Walmart’s market research suggests that providing EV charging will not only attract more visitors but also encourage them to spend longer in-store, enhancing overall customer engagement. ABB’s A400 chargers stand out for their technical capabilities, featuring dual CCS and NACS connectors and delivering up to 400 kilowatts of power. This allows simultaneous charging of two vehicles at 200 kW each or a single vehicle at the full 400 kW. The chargers also include a large, configurable display for branding and advertising purposes, and their modular design supports future upgrades and expansions. Additionally, ABB’s ReliaGear switchboard will facilitate the integration of energy storage solutions, enabling Walmart to manage energy resources more efficiently. The Phoenix deployment marks the initial phase of what ABB e-mobility describes as the most ambitious retail EV charging rollout in the United States. Brandt Hastings, President of ABB e-mobility North America, emphasised the significance of this launch as a stepping stone toward a nationwide network. This collaboration between Walmart and ABB signals a major push in the retail sector to support the growing EV market, potentially setting a precedent for other large retailers to follow suit in expanding accessible fast-charging infrastructure.