Summary
If you’re curious how utilities can break through outdated processes and accelerate grid modernization, this episode is a must-listen. Kim Getgen, CEO of InnovationForce, joins us to share how her AI-powered platform is helping utilities overcome “pilotitis,” streamline innovation workflows, and bring game-changing technologies to life faster. From aligning with fast-moving startups to addressing cybersecurity bottlenecks and making frontline workers part of the solution, Kim offers real-world strategies for scaling innovation in complex, regulated industries. Whether you work in clean energy, electric vehicles, or digital transformation, this episode is packed with insights on how AI is reshaping the future of utility innovation—one pilot at a time.
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Plus check out our new consultancy site: Grid Connections Consulting

Takeaways

1. Innovation starts with a challenge—not a shiny object.
Kim Getgen explains why utility innovation efforts often fail when they don’t begin with a clearly defined problem, and how starting with challenge statements leads to better alignment, faster pilots, and higher success rates.
2. Time is the silent killer of innovation.
More than budgets or resources, it's indecision and delays that stall progress. Kim shares why utilities must act quickly to match the pace of startups—and how AI can help accelerate that decision-making process.
3. Culture change comes after capability building—not before.
Drawing from Harvard-backed research, Kim breaks down why utility culture improves organically when employees are empowered with the right innovation tools and clear processes—not just buzzwords or slogans.
4. Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be a bottleneck.
Kim dives into how standardized procurement workflows, better staffing, and proactive preparation from startups can reduce cyber delays—without compromising safety or compliance.
5. InnovationForce’s “airports and captains” model makes innovation accessible.
By ditching jargon and using aviation-inspired language, utilities can decentralize innovation and engage employees at all levels—especially those closest to the problem.
6. AI is changing the game for solution discovery and pilot matching.
InnovationWorks AI can read hundreds of pages of grid modernization filings in seconds, identify critical challenges, and instantly match them to vetted startup solutions—replacing months of manual research.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
Corey Cantor, Research Director at the Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA), joins us to break down the data behind the electric vehicle (EV) transition in the U.S. We explore how falling battery prices, expanding public charging infrastructure, and landmark policies like the 30D EV tax credit and 45X manufacturing incentives are accelerating EV adoption and reshaping the auto industry. Corey shares insights on shifting consumer perceptions, domestic supply chain investments, and how visibility of chargers directly impacts buyer intent. Whether you're curious about EV market growth, U.S. competitiveness in clean transportation, or the broader electrification ecosystem—from lithium mines to school buses—this conversation is packed with data-driven takeaways and future-forward perspective.
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Plus check out our new consultancy site: Grid Connections Consulting

Takeaways

1. U.S. EV Sales Grew Despite a Shrinking Auto Market
   While the overall U.S. automotive market contracted in 2024, EV sales continued to grow, highlighting strong consumer interest and resilience even in challenging conditions.
2. EV Battery Prices Have Dropped Nearly 90% Since 2010
   This dramatic reduction in lithium-ion battery costs is unlocking new affordability and accelerating adoption across passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and grid storage.
3. Charging Station Visibility Boosts EV Purchase Intent
   Pew Research data reveals that people living within one mile of a public EV charger are 20% more likely to consider buying an EV, proving that visibility matters as much as access.
4. Most EV Charging Happens at Home—But DC Fast Charging Still Has a Key Role
   With 80% of EV charging occurring at home, the conversation around infrastructure must balance fast charging buildout with scalable, everyday solutions like Level 1 and Level 2 charging.
5. $190 Billion+ Invested in U.S. EV Supply Chain Since 2020
   Corey breaks down how investment in domestic EV manufacturing—spanning critical minerals, battery production, and vehicle assembly—is translating into tens of thousands of American jobs.
6. Electric School Buses Offer Massive Public Health and Cost Savings Potential
   With over 500,000 school buses in the U.S., electrifying this fleet isn’t just an emissions play—it’s a public health and operational cost win for school districts across the country.
7. Bipartisan Support for EV Manufacturing Is Rising
   New polling shows that a majority of U.S. voters—across political lines—support government action to back domestic EV production, signaling long-term policy momentum.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
Curious about how public and private partnerships are shaping the future of EV charging and clean transportation? In this special episode of Grid Connections, recorded live at the EV Charging Summit and Expo in Las Vegas, we sit down with Jane McCurry (Executive Director, Clean Fuels Michigan), Tom McCalmont (CEO, Paired Power), and Stacey Simms (Senior Director, Clean Fuels and Infrastructure at CALSTART) to explore how states are stepping up as federal funding wavers, where real progress is happening in multifamily and fleet charging, and why microgrids and smart financing are critical to scaling infrastructure. Whether you're in policy, fleet management, or just EV-curious, this episode is packed with actionable insights, state-level success stories, and bold ideas driving clean mobility forward.
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Plus check out our new consultancy site: Grid Connections Consulting

Takeaways:

1. State-Level EV Programs Are Filling Federal Gaps
   States like Michigan, Colorado, and California are launching innovative funding and policy initiatives to keep EV infrastructure projects moving despite federal uncertainty.
2. Multifamily Housing Is the Next Frontier for EV Charging
   With growing demand, new public-private programs are targeting apartment and condo dwellers to expand access to overnight EV charging.
3. Microgrids and Solar-Powered EV Chargers Offer Grid Resilience
   Combining solar, storage, and managed charging is proving essential for deploying EV charging in grid-constrained or remote areas.
4. Fleet Electrification Needs Tailored Messaging and Financing Tools
   Education, total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, and new financing models are critical to converting light-duty and municipal fleets.
5. Ride-and-Drive Events Are Driving EV Adoption
   Getting drivers behind the wheel remains one of the most effective strategies for boosting consumer and fleet confidence in EVs.
6. Collaboration Across State Agencies Accelerates Deployment
   Cross-agency coordination—between energy offices, DOTs, and air quality boards—is helping streamline EV infrastructure rollouts.
7. Innovative Financing Models Like Pay-As-You-Save Are Gaining Traction
   Creative solutions are emerging to help public agencies and property owners overcome upfront costs and invest in long-term electrification.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
What’s really behind the broken EV chargers we’ve all encountered — and how do we fix them for good? In this episode, ChargerHelp CEO Kameale Terry breaks down the surprising truth that 90% of charger downtime is due to software, not hardware. She explains how outdated protocols like OCPP 1.6, poorly structured service contracts, and misaligned incentives have made charger reliability a major roadblock, especially for fleets. Kameale also shares how field data is driving a new era of performance-based service models, and why 2025 is a critical year for setting standards, building accountability, and creating real uptime. If you care about EV infrastructure, fleet electrification, or the future of charging reliability, this episode is a must-listen.
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Plus check out our new consultancy site: Grid Connections Consulting

Links from this Episode:

1. ChargerHelp
2. EV Charging Reliability Report (2024) by ChargerHelp
3. Electric Vehicle Charging Summit & Expo: March 26–27, 2025, Las Vegas
4. Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) managed by Open Charge Alliance
5. ChargeX Consortium launched by Joint Office of Energy and Transportation
6. Alliance for Transportation Electrification (ATE)
7. Voltera
8. Terawatt Infrastructure
9. Electrada offering Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS)
10. Revel helping power EV rideshare drivers.
11. LAZ Parking EV charging partnership with EPIC Charging

Takeaways:

1. Fleet operators are leading EV charging innovation — not public stations — because uptime directly impacts their bottom line.
2. Bundled software + hardware contracts hurt reliability, often leaving no funding for operations and maintenance (O&M) when things break.
3. Current EV charging standards lack enforcement — even widely used protocols like OCPP 1.6 suffer from inconsistent implementations.
4. There’s no aftermarket for EV charger parts, making maintenance costly and unscalable for operators with mixed hardware brands.
5. Proactive charger maintenance is finally possible thanks to field data and diagnostics, reducing the need for constant truck rolls.
6. Commercial charging for rideshare and delivery fleets is a massive growth opportunity, especially for parking operators and urban depots.

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• Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.
• Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
Curious about the future of carbon-negative building materials and how climate tech can seamlessly integrate into your everyday life? In this insightful episode, Josh Dorfman—co-founder of Plantd and Supercool—explains how he and his SpaceX-trained team developed a groundbreaking, grass-based alternative to plywood that’s stronger, more water-resistant, and greener than conventional wood. Along the way, you’ll discover how streamlined solutions like virtual power plants, user-friendly solar installations, and data-driven demand response can help businesses, homeowners, and entire communities cut costs while slashing carbon emissions. If you’re eager for real-world success stories, tips on scaling sustainable ventures, and a preview of the latest EV Charging Summit & Expo, you’ll want to tune in and learn from Josh’s journey—and maybe pick up a few ideas you can apply right now.
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Links from this Episode:

1. Supercool
2. Plantd
3. EV Charging Summit & Expo

Takeaways

1. Ex-SpaceX Engineering for Carbon-Negative Construction
   Learn how former SpaceX collaborators are applying first-principles thinking to develop high-strength, grass-based panels that transform the building industry.
2. Demand Response: Big Savings for Franchises
   Discover how zero-money-down energy upgrades help restaurants like Popeyes and Sonic drastically cut costs and support grid resilience.
3. Turning Healthcare Systems 100% Renewable
   Hear how a Midwestern hospital network leveraged local breweries, dairies, and biodigesters to slash carbon emissions and patent new clean energy processes.
4. Community-Driven Bike Lane Success
   See how a focus on nostalgia and inclusive outreach led Memphis and other cities to build bike lanes three times faster, boosting health and livability.
5. Consumer-Friendly Climate Tech Adoption
   Uncover the power of simple, transparent marketing—like Sunrun’s ‘pizza tracker’—in demystifying solar installations and battery storage solutions.
6. Redefining Construction Materials Supply Chains
   Understand why vertical integration and hybrid crops are critical to Plantd’s mission of delivering affordable, drop-in replacements for OSB and plywood.
7. Preview of the EV Charging Summit & Expo
   Get a glimpse of this year’s top electrification trends in Las Vegas and learn how they’re shaping the future of EV infrastructure and clean mobility solutions.

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• Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.
• Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
What do new tariffs mean for EV prices? Are plug-in hybrids a real solution or just a loophole? And how is EV charging evolving with networks like Ionna? In this episode of Grid Connections, veteran automotive journalist John Voelcker breaks down the latest shifts in the auto industry. We dive into how tariffs are reshaping supply chains, whether automakers are truly committed to affordable EVs, and the future of public charging—including how Ionna's new network could change the game. If you're an EV enthusiast, policy watcher, or just curious about the future of transportation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 🚗⚡
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Links from this Episode:

• Infographic about Automotive Supply Chain
• Tempting Fate Tours
• Ionna Rechargeries
• John Voelcker's Work:
  • Car & Driver
  • Green Car Reports
  • InsideEVs
  • Charged Electric Vehicle Magazine

Takeaways

1. Tariffs Could Add Up to $12,000 to Vehicle Prices – The latest U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles and parts from Mexico and Canada are expected to significantly raise car prices, impacting both EVs and gas-powered models.
2. Automakers Are Struggling with Regulatory Uncertainty – Constant changes in fuel efficiency and emissions regulations make long-term planning difficult for car manufacturers, affecting EV adoption and production strategies.
3. Plug-in Hybrids Might Not Be the Solution Many Think – While marketed as a bridge to full electrification, most plug-in hybrid owners rarely charge them, undermining their potential environmental benefits.
4. Ionna’s New EV Charging Network Could Redefine Public Charging – The auto-backed Ionna network aims to fix EV charging reliability, offering driver-friendly amenities like sheltered chargers, on-site restrooms, and easy payment options.
5. Tesla’s Supercharger Network Is Opening Up—but with Caveats – While non-Tesla EVs can now access Superchargers, some still require a Tesla app for payment, creating friction for a seamless charging experience.
6. Affordable EVs Are Still a Challenge – Despite automaker promises, the industry still lacks a truly mass-market $25,000 EV, though GM’s upcoming Bolt revival could be a step in the right direction.
7. The Future of Charging Is in Retail Partnerships – Gas stations and big retailers like Walmart are getting into the EV charging business, which could help normalize and improve charging access nationwide.

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• Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.
• Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary

The EV industry is at a crossroads, and this Grid Connections panel dives deep into the biggest shifts shaping its future. John McElroy (President, Autoline Network), Loren McDonald (Chief Data Analyst of Paren), and Matt Teske (CEO of Chargeway) break down the impact of Trump’s tariffs on EV pricing and jobs, Tesla’s brand shift and global sales decline, and the growing fight over direct-to-consumer EV sales. Plus, we explore the state of EV charging infrastructure, the NEVI program’s delays, and why dealerships are struggling to sell EVs. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast, industry insider, or just EV-curious, this episode is packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else. 🚗⚡ 

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Links from this Episode

• JD Power Vehicle Dependability
• EV Politics Project Poll of Elon Musk

Takeaways

1. Tesla’s Declining Brand Loyalty: Once the gold standard for EVs, Tesla is losing customer loyalty as Elon Musk’s politics alienate longtime supporters while failing to attract new buyers who can afford its vehicles.
2. Trump’s Tariffs Could Reshape EV Pricing & Jobs: The new tariffs on imported EVs and auto parts could drive up prices, slow adoption, and force automakers to rethink production strategies. Meanwhile, dealers warn of $7 billion in unsold EV inventory.
3. Supercharger Network Still Sets the Industry Standard: Despite Tesla’s brand struggles, its charging network remains the most reliable and efficient—raising the question of whether the government should fund Tesla instead of fragmented public charging initiatives.
4. NEVI Funding Paused – But Charging Growth Continues: The federal NEVI program is stalled, but private companies like IONNA, BP Pulse, and Mercedes-Benz are still aggressively expanding charging networks, with 16,000+ new fast-charging ports expected in 2024.
5. The Fight Over Direct EV Sales Heats Up: Volkswagen’s Scout Motors is facing a legal battle as it tries to sell EVs directly to consumers, while dealerships—historically skeptical of EVs—now demand control of new EV brands.
6. More Charging Stations Don’t Automatically Boost EV Sales: Studies show that non-EV owners don’t even notice charging stations, meaning the key to EV adoption is better consumer education, not just infrastructure expansion.
7. The EV Leasing Boom is Changing the Market: As more buyers opt for leasing to take advantage of federal tax credits and faster technology updates, leasing could be a major driver of future EV adoption as long as the credits remain.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
We welcome back Walter Schulze, host of The Network Architect Channel, to break down the latest in fast-charging infrastructure, EV adoption trends, and charging network expansions. We dive into IONNA’s rapid station rollout, Tesla’s ongoing dominance, and how networks like Pilot Flying J, EVgo, and Walmart are reshaping the road trip experience. Plus, we tackle the rising cost of fast charging, the impact of lower-cost EVs like the Chevrolet Equinox EV, and what’s next for plug & charge technology. Whether you're an EV owner or just EV-curious, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
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Links from this Episode

• NREL's "Building the 2030 Charging Network"
  • Accompanying PDF with Results
• 2024 EVgo Q4 and 2024 Results Investor Call and Documents
• Coast-to-Coast #34 Guest Appearance

Takeaways:

1️⃣ IONNA’s Charging Network is Expanding Fast – The new automaker-backed network is rolling out high-speed, well-lit, and amenity-rich charging stations at record speed, setting a new standard for public EV charging.

2️⃣ Tesla Supercharger Access is Changing the Game – More automakers, including GM and Volvo, are gaining access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, making long-distance EV travel easier than ever.

3️⃣ Fast Charging Costs Are Rising—But Price Wars Are Here – Tesla, Mercedes, and EVgo are adjusting pricing strategies, with some networks offering memberships and time-of-use discounts to keep road trip costs competitive.

4️⃣ Retailers Like Walmart & Costco Are Betting Big on EV Charging – Major brands are installing fast chargers at their locations, making charging more convenient while boosting foot traffic to their stores.

5️⃣ Low-Cost EVs Like the Chevy Equinox EV Are a Game-Changer – More affordable EVs hitting the market will drive higher demand for public charging, especially for apartment dwellers who can’t charge at home.

6️⃣ Plug & Charge Technology is the Future – New charging networks are eliminating the need for apps and accounts, making EV charging as easy as pumping gas.

7️⃣ DC Fast Charging Infrastructure is Accelerating – Despite concerns about EV adoption slowing, billions are being invested in new fast-charging stations, ensuring that the future of electrification is moving full speed ahead.

Support or Connect with Grid Connections

• Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
Curious about what it takes to own an EV in a dense city like New York? In this episode of Grid Connections, we sit down with Robert Hoffman, host of the Urban EV Podcast, to uncover the real-world challenges and opportunities of city-based EV ownership. From navigating public charging infrastructure and dealing with range anxiety to the growing role of rideshare EV adoption and innovative curbside charging solutions, Robert shares firsthand insights from his own experience. We also explore the reliability of fast-charging networks like Electrify America, the promise of IONNA’s expansion, and why misinformation still holds many drivers back from making the switch. Whether you’re EV-curious or a longtime advocate, this episode will give you an unfiltered look at the evolving landscape of urban electrification.
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Links from this Episode

• Rob's Podcast
• Rob's Urban EV Website
• Chargeway for EV Route Planning
• Flo EV Charging

Takeaways

1. Urban EV Ownership is More Feasible Than You Think – Despite common misconceptions, living in a city without home charging doesn’t mean you can’t own an EV. Public Level 2 charging networks, like Flow, are making urban EV ownership more practical.
2. 800V vs. 400V Charging: What EV Buyers Need to Know – The difference between these charging architectures affects real-world charging speeds, especially on Tesla’s Supercharger network. Not all fast chargers are created equal.
3. EV Charging Infrastructure Still Has Reliability Issues – While Tesla’s Supercharger network sets the gold standard, non-Tesla public fast charging networks still face uptime and usability challenges, leading to range anxiety for new EV drivers.
4. Plug-in Hybrids Might Not Be the Perfect Middle Ground – While PHEVs are marketed as a bridge to full electrification, most owners rarely charge them, reducing their environmental and cost benefits. The added complexity also means more maintenance.
5. Rideshare Drivers Are Impacting Public Charging Availability – With rideshare drivers making up a significant portion of public EV charging demand, certain locations, especially near airports, are seeing congestion and long wait times.
6. Hotels & Businesses Need to Step Up Their EV Charging Game – Level 2 charging at hotels and commercial locations is still scarce, despite being a potential game-changer for long-distance EV travel and guest convenience.
7. Future Charging Solutions Could Transform City EV Adoption – Innovative approaches, like curbside Level 2 charging from companies like It’s Electric, are emerging to make city-wide EV adoption a reality, reducing reliance on expensive DC fast chargers.

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• Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging

Summary
We sit down again with Tu Le, Founder of Sino Auto Insights, to explore China’s rapid rise as a global leader in electric vehicles and automotive autonomy. Tu shares expert insights on how government policy, advanced battery technology, and market competition have positioned Chinese automakers ahead of their Western counterparts. We discuss Tesla’s challenges in China, the evolving role of CATL and BYD, and how ultra-fast charging and AI-driven vehicle software are shaping the future of transportation. Tune in to understand the key trends driving the global EV revolution and what it means for the automotive industry.
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Links from this Episode

• Sino Auto Insights Substack
• Tu's Weekly Podcast: China EVs & More
• Watch this episode on Youtube

Takeaways

1. China's EV Leadership: China’s strategic government investments and fierce market competition have placed it at the forefront of the global EV industry.
2. Battery Innovation & Charging Infrastructure: Companies like CATL and BYD are revolutionizing battery technology, enabling ultra-fast charging and widespread adoption.
3. Tesla’s Challenges in China: While Tesla remains a key player, Chinese automakers are rapidly closing the gap with competitive pricing and cutting-edge features.
4. Autonomous Driving in China vs. the U.S.: Chinese automakers and tech companies are pushing AI-driven vehicle autonomy at a much faster pace than their Western counterparts.
5. Policy & Market Differences: The contrast between the U.S. scaling back EV investments and China’s aggressive push toward electrification and software-defined vehicles highlights a shifting global automotive landscape.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging