EV Charging Meets Chicken Rippers At Bojangles (In Other Words, The War On EVs Is Over)

Bojangles, the well-known Southern-style quick service restaurant, has launched its first on-site electric vehicle (EV) charging station at a location in Savannah, Georgia. This move marks the company’s entry into the growing “charge-and-dine” trend among major restaurant chains, positioning Bojangles as a forward-thinking player blending hospitality with modern mobility needs. Although the initiative comes after competitors like Cracker Barrel and Waffle House have already established EV charging facilities, Bojangles aims to distinguish itself by transforming charging time into an opportunity for customers to relax and enjoy its signature Southern cuisine. The company’s leadership emphasises that the introduction of EV charging is more than a practical amenity; it represents a strategic evolution of the brand. Bojangles Chief Information Officer Richard Del Valle highlighted the potential to redefine the typical stop along a journey, turning it into a meaningful experience that combines vehicle charging with comfort and quality dining. The company also declared that the “war on EVs” is over, signalling its commitment to supporting electric vehicle adoption and adapting to consumer priorities around efficiency and sustainability. Bojangles’ focus on the Southeastern United States is particularly significant given the region’s complex relationship with EV adoption. Despite political challenges and the recent discontinuation of the federal $7,500 EV tax credit, EV sales in the Southeast are showing signs of recovery. The company’s decision to debut the charging station in Savannah aligns with broader trends, including investments by EV manufacturers like Rivian, which is expanding production in Georgia. Bojangles plans to roll out additional charging stations across its extensive network of nearly 900 stores spanning 23 states, with a strong presence in North Carolina. The EV charging infrastructure at Bojangles is managed by XLR8 America, a California-based startup specialising in commercial EV charging solutions. XLR8 has rapidly expanded its services since 2025, partnering with various energy and technology firms to ease operational challenges for property owners and managers. XLR8 CEO Frank O’Connor described the Bojangles project as the beginning of a national network designed to make EV charging seamless and convenient, reinforcing the “charge-and-dine” concept as a practical and appealing option for drivers. Overall, Bojangles’ entry into the EV charging market reflects a broader shift in the quick service restaurant industry towards integrating sustainable mobility with customer experience. By combining Southern hospitality with modern infrastructure, the company is positioning itself to meet evolving consumer demands while supporting the growth of electric vehicles in a region that is becoming increasingly receptive to clean energy transportation. Future expansions of the charging network will be closely watched as indicators of how traditional brands can adapt to the accelerating transition to electric mobility.