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Uber Says It Has A ‘Superpower’ To Boost EV Charging Growth

admin — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:10:26 +0000

As America’s public fast-charging network continues to grow despite the broader cooling of electric vehicle sales, Uber is taking up a more active role in deciding where new charging stations should be built and how efficiently they’re managed.

The ride-hailing giant is amid a tectonic shift, brokering dozens of deals worldwide to bring autonomous vehicles to its platform. The vast majority of these partnerships involve modern EVs, which will need consistent and reliable spaces to charge.

To address that, Uber is now aiding the build-out of new fast-charging stations to support the incoming wave of robotaxis on its platform and also providing more plug-in options to its human drivers, who are increasingly going electric.

“One of Uber’s superpowers is the fact that we have just so much data,” Andrew Cornelia, Uber’s global head of electrification and sustainability, told me in an interview at the BloombergNEF Summit in New York City. “We’re using that data to essentially tell us where charging needs to be.”

Motional and Uber’s Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi in Las Vegas.

Photo by: Hyundai

Armed with vast amounts of real-world trip data, the company says it could help solve one of the industry’s most persistent problems, which is matching charging supply with real-time demand from drivers who can’t afford to waste time waiting around.

In February, Uber announced a $100 million investment in building public fast-charging stations. It will partner with networks including EVgo in the U.S. and Ionity in Europe to build charging stations in high-traffic regions.

Uber is also providing these networks with utilization guarantees. Fast-charging stations require millions in upfront capital to build and only make sense financially if utilization rates are consistently high.

Cornelia is confident that demand for these chargers will be high. “Charging now tops vehicle cost in terms of concerns for Uber drivers,” he said. “We actually have a fairly high conviction and confidence that if you build it, they will come.”

Tesla Model Y charging at an EVgo charging station.

Photo by: EVgo

New York City has among the most severe examples of charging shortages for Uber drivers. Drivers were incentivized to go electric due to new Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) rules in 2023, but got little charging support in return.

More charging stations have come online in the city ever since, but congestion hasn’t improved meaningfully at many locations. There aren’t enough stations to support the tens of thousands of rideshare drivers who have since opted to drive EVs.

Uber is trying to alleviate some of these concerns with a new recommendation technology within its app, showing drivers nearby EV chargers and locations with the shortest queues.

But Uber’s ‘superpower’ is being stress tested regardless by rivals and investors alike. Its stock is down nearly 10% this year as of writing. Rival Waymo is a partner in Austin and Atlanta, but also a huge competitor in nine other cities where it serves riders on its own app.

Waymo’s Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi.

Photo by: Waymo

And the threat from Tesla is also looming—Elon Musk’s company builds its own robotaxis, which will charge on its own hardware and serve riders through its own app. This vertical integration brings inherent advantages, giving Tesla tighter control over its software, hardware, and operations.

Uber’s horizontal approach gives it less direct influence over parts of its business. But it also enables its massive scale, which is its own advantage. Only time will tell whether the bet on AVs will pencil out. The bet on charging, on the other hand, seems less risky in comparison.

Drivers are already going electric, and having more chargers would address their needs more immediately. Chargers themselves are a proven technology, and they’re getting better every day. Newer stations are now higher-powered and have better reliability. More of them are popping up in locations with amenities like convenience stores, bathrooms, and WiFi.

“The future of mobility is really electric, autonomous, and digitally enabled,” Cornelia said. “Public charging is a concern, and that’s why we’re spending so much time on it.”

Contact the author: suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com

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Ionna Is Teaming Up With Circle K To Boost Its EV Charging Network

admin — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:01:31 +0000

Ionna will install its high-powered charging stations at Circle K locations across the U.S.
It will also take over the operations of Circle K’s existing charging network.
Retail giants and gas station chains have embraced the build-out of fast chargers.

Convenience store and gas station chain Circle K is partnering with Ionna to install hundreds of public fast charging stations at its locations nationwide, the companies announced on Tuesday.

The announcement is the latest in a string of recent tie-ups between retail giants and electric vehicle charging companies, who are racing to build out charging infrastructure with the anticipation that EV sales growth will rebound in the coming years.

Ionna, the consortium founded by eight automakers including General Motors, Stellantis, and Toyota, has quickly become one of the fastest-growing charging networks in the U.S. with its so-called Rechargeries.

BMW iX At Ionna Rechargery

Photo by: Suvrat Kothari

Under the new deal, it plans to bring its high-powered stations to over 350 Circle K locations across the country, pushing it closer to its ambitious target of installing 30,000 charging bays by 2030. All Ionna stations are equipped with 400-kilowatt charging dispensers that support both CCS and the Tesla-style NACS connectors.

What’s also notable is that Ionna will also take over Circle K’s existing charging network, which will dramatically expand its own footprint. According to the U.S. government’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, the chain already has 378 EV charging ports across 93 locations, which will now fold into the Ionna network. Ionna said it will “rapidly convert and upgrade approximately 85 existing Circle K charging sites.” In other words, existing Circle K stations should become more modern and easier to use, while offering faster charging.

Photo by: Ionna

Access to reliable public fast-charging stations is one of the top hurdles to the broader adoption of EVs. Even though EV growth has cooled since the end of federal tax credits last year, the nationwide build-out of DC fast chargers has continued at a record pace. Popular convenience stores and gas station chains have leaned into this opportunity.

Ionna also partnered with Sheetz and Wawa last year. General Motors and EVGo have continued to expand at Pilot and Flying J travel centers. And Mercedes-Benz High Power Charging is also installing its fast chargers at Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based travel center chain.

The logic behind these retail partnerships is pretty straightforward. For EV drivers, they help replicate the familiar gas-station and rest-stop experience, offering up amenities like restrooms, restaurants, cafes, and Wi-Fi. Many EV chargers lack those basic conveniences, much less a place to kick back as some of Ionna’s Rechargeries have.

The opportunity is also clear for retailers. While a gas stop may only take 10 minutes, an EV driver hanging around for 30 minutes presents an even greater sales opportunity for snacks and the like.

Contact the author: suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com

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Maintenance Checks That Can Boost MPG

admin — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:57:45 +0000

Even the most hardcore car enthusiasts sometimes wince at the thought of spending money on routine maintenance. Oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and careful driving can keep your car running for the long haul, but taking care of your ride can also return big fuel savings as you drive. Ignoring the little things can lead to bigger problems down the road, and it can also drain your car’s fuel economy, costing you more for every mile you travel. We’ve covered some of the driving practices and routine maintenance items that can have the biggest impact on your fuel economy in this post, so let’s get rolling.

Oil Changes Matter

Most auto manufacturers recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. We won’t comment on whether or not those are good rules to live by, but the reality is that clean oil of the right type helps your engine run better and consume less fuel. Oil changes also include replacing the oil filter, which further improves fuel economy. Dirty, clogged oil filters can starve the engine of lubrication, making it work harder and consume more fuel over time.

Keep Up with Air Filters

Air filter cleanliness has a much greater effect on fuel economy in older, carbureted cars, but it still offers benefits for modern vehicles with fuel injection. You may notice better acceleration, and the engine might not work as hard as a result.

Visit our Maintenance Hub to learn how to keep your ride running right.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Lights

Newer cars are essentially rolling computers, and when a sensor fails, it can cut into your fuel economy. Issues such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can reduce your gas mileage by double-digit percentages, so it’s worth spending the time and/or money to keep up with maintenance issues.

Drive Carefully

We’re not telling you to hypermile or drive like a slug, but it is important to be mindful of how you drive to preserve fuel economy. Avoid rapid acceleration, and try to drive as smoothly as possible. If you own a vehicle with a manual transmission, driving in the highest gears possible will keep the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM) lower, helping it consume less fuel.

KBB Fuel-Saving Playbook

Use this quick-reference guide to reduce fuel costs, improve mpg, and keep your travel plans flexible during busy seasons, weather disruptions, or price spikes.

Drive calmer, save more
Smart prep beats panic fill-ups
Less drag = better highway mileage
Maintenance matters

10 Fuel-Economy Tips You Can Use Right Away

Keep a fuel buffer

During winter, holidays, and storm threats, aim to stay above half a tank. That extra range gives you options when stations are crowded or supply is delayed.

Compare prices before you pull in

Use gas-price apps and maps to locate lower-cost stations. Spots away from freeway exits and downtown cores often beat convenience-stop pricing.

Combine trips

Batch errands instead of making multiple short drives. Fewer starts and fewer miles immediately reduce your weekly fuel burn.

Respect speed limits

Higher speed dramatically raises fuel use. Even a modest drop in cruising speed can recover several mpg on longer drives.

Be smooth with pedals

Avoid sudden throttle and hard braking. Steady acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can improve mileage and reduce wear on major components.

Remove unused roof gear

Roof racks, boxes, and bike carriers increase drag. If you do not need them today, take them off—especially before highway travel.

Prefer high-detergent fuel when possible

Consistently using better detergent packages can help keep engines cleaner over time. During shortages, availability comes first, then return to your preferred fuel.

Skip premium unless required

If your vehicle says premium is recommended (not required), regular fuel is usually fine. Save the extra money for maintenance or tire service.

Check tire pressure monthly

Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and lower efficiency. Verify pressures on cold tires and match the door-jamb specification.

Use AC strategically

Climate control does use energy, but comfort and alertness still matter. On mild days, reduced air conditioning use can trim fuel consumption.

What Test Trends Suggest

Cruising at 55 mph vs 65 mphNotable mpg gain

Cruising at 75 mph vs 65 mphClear mpg loss

Roof-mounted cargo setupLarge efficiency hit

In instrumented highway and mixed-driving evaluations, speed and aerodynamic load repeatedly produced the largest mpg swings.

Fast Weekly Checklist

Plan routes and stack errands.
Refuel before your tank drops too low.
Confirm tire pressures.
Remove empty racks and cargo bins.
Drive with gentle throttle and braking.
Use the fuel grade your car actually needs.

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Ford and Carhartt Are Teaming Up to Boost the Skilled Trades

admin — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:06:59 +0000

Ford and Carhartt want to promote real “Carhartt-type” work

If there is one brand that is synonymous with both white- and blue-collar workers, as well as construction sites and the world’s fashion magazines, it is none other than the American heritage brand Carhartt. Born in Dearborn, Michigan, in 1889, the workwear brand has been known the world over not just for being a go-to brand for style influencers and fashionistas, but more so as a tried-and-true brand that has produced tough, long-lasting quality clothing essentials for multiple generations.

Although you may be able to find people of all stripes wearing Carhartt everywhere from a rising skyscraper, oil rigs, and mechanics’ shops, to your local third-wave coffee shop, it has been linked to another Dearborn-based company for nearly 100 years: Ford. According to Ford, Carhartt has produced clothes for Ford’s factory workers since the 1920s, with workwear programs between the two companies dating back to the 1970s.

Ford

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However, the two companies are now getting together to serve the next generation of skilled labor. In an announcement at the Detroit Auto Show on January 13, Ford CEO Jim Farley and Carhartt CEO Linda Hubbard announced that they will be linking up on a multi-year strategic partnership designed to support what they call the “Essential Economy.” The two companies aim to “create long-term impact” by focusing on specific initiatives to support the trades, including workforce development, community building, and the development of new products.

“Hamilton Carhartt founded our company on a simple principle: listen to hardworking people and build products that help them do their jobs safely and effectively,” Hubbard said. “For 136 years, we’ve stood with the skilled trades by making durable gear they can rely on. That commitment has since grown to include support for programs that provide people with the skills and training needed for meaningful careers in the trades. We’re excited that our partnership with Ford will help us advance this important work.”

Ford

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Ford aims to equip the auto technicians of tomorrow with tools, training, and fresh, new clothes

Part of that commitment is direct support, and, according to Ford, it aims to partner with high schools and community colleges to provide fast-track training programs and ensure a strong pipeline from education to the workforce. This also includes a partnership between Ford Philanthropy and Ford dealers with the TechForce Foundation to support Ford Auto Tech Scholars, its scholarships for potential automotive technicians in the U.S.

As part of its new partnership with Carhartt, the next batch of Ford Auto Tech Scholars will receive fresh, new custom Carhartt gear (or “drip,” as the youth say), as well as a new tool lending program for prospective Detroit-area auto technicians through ToolBank USA. Ford says that it will be donating a ProPower onboard-equipped F-150 to the Detroit ToolBank upon its opening in February 2026, which it will use to extend its outreach across Southeast Michigan.

“This is such a great match because we’re all committed to making sure workers have the best equipment and gear that they can get. ToolBank USA is inspiring people to do more with their hands while changing lives in our local communities,” Ford CEO Farley said. “Who better to expand their mission and bring the next hub to this great city than two iconic Detroit companies, Ford and Carhartt.”

Ford

A Carhartt Super Duty is coming

Since late 2025, Ford and Carhartt used uniform services provider Cintas to outfit dealership technicians with the legendary brand’s clothing, including Ford/Carhartt-branded shirts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, footwear, and accessories. However, they are going one step further with their expanded collaboration.

Ford and Carhartt also announced that, in addition to new merchandise, which “explores the intersection of heritage workwear and automotive craftsmanship, uncovering shared values of durability, innovation, and local pride,” the two are linking up on a new 2027 Super Duty Carhartt truck, which is coming later this year.

No exact details have been revealed as of yet; however, Ford noted that the vehicle is inspired by the brand and that its designers injected inspiration that executives gained from a visit to Carhartt’s downtown Detroit store, where they got up close with the different colors and textures of the brand’s storied pieces, as well as the elements surrounding the store. The lone detail revealed by Ford, the truck’s wheel, is said to be inspired by the Detroit city manhole covers outside the store.

“Carhartt’s DNA is all about hardworking people, doing incredible things with their rugged apparel, which is as necessary as the tools they use — just like our trucks serve builders as tools for their trade,” Ford Global Licensing senior manager Tyler Hill said in a statement.

Final thoughts

Ford CEO Jim Farley has been very vocal about the growth of the skilled trades. On a November 2025 episode of the Office Hours: Business Edition podcast, Farley said Ford had 5,000 open mechanic positions that it is struggling to fill, despite it being a position that can open up a pathway toward an $120,000 annual salary, noting that its stuggle to fill jobs that require training or manual labor are signs that there is a shortage of skilled tradespeople in the U.S.

“We are in trouble in our country. We are not talking about this enough,” he said at the time. “We have over a million openings in critical jobs, emergency services, trucking, factory workers, plumbers, electricians, and tradesmen. It’s a very serious thing.”

This new partnership with Carhartt is just one piece of the puzzle. In an interview with Business Insider, Ford Philanthropy president Mary Culler added that these seemingly dirty, unglamorous jobs have a real perception problem in today’s connected-car era, as techs will be working mostly with technology and not wrenches.

“People we talk to tell us, ‘I didn’t realize it wasn’t the greasy job I expected,'” Culler told BI. “People don’t understand that it’s a very high-tech job, it’s a very computer-intensive job.”

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