Tesla and Hilton Partner to Expand EV Charging Network

In a groundbreaking move for the electric vehicle industry, Tesla and Hilton announced a massive partnership which is set to revolutionize the accessibility of electric vehicle charging for visitors to Hilton’s popular hotel locations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Under this partnership, Tesla will be installing their Universal Wall Connector charging points at approximately 2,000 Hilton properties. In total, a staggering 20,000 Tesla chargers will be deployed, creating a vast network that will ease the worries of electric vehicle drivers and significantly contribute to reducing range anxiety.

What sets this initiative apart is its inclusivity. While Tesla’s charging infrastructure is primarily designed for Tesla vehicles, an adapter will be made available to allow any electric vehicle to utilize these charging stations. This move represents a major step toward making electric vehicle charging more universally accessible, fostering the growth of the electric vehicle market as a whole.

The benefits of this partnership are not one-sided. Hilton, a renowned brand in the hospitality industry, recognizes that catering to electric vehicle owners is becoming increasingly important. The company has noted a significant shift in consumer behavior, with internet searches for EV charging availability becoming the second-largest factor influencing customers’ decisions to stay at Hilton properties, up from fourth place.

Currently, only one Hilton hotel in the United States offers on-site electric vehicle charging, according to data from the EV charging locator app PlugShare. However, this collaboration with Tesla will bring at least six charging stations to every Hilton location, providing a major boost in charging infrastructure for electric vehicle users. The rollout is scheduled to begin at the start of 2024, marking a swift and comprehensive expansion of EV charging options at Hilton properties.

Hilton’s Chief Brand Officer, Matt Schuyler, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, “Through this expanded agreement with Tesla, we are significantly changing the landscape of universal EV chargers in North America in an incredibly short amount of time.” This initiative aligns with the growing global commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation options.

A recent study conducted by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago, in partnership with the Associated Press–NORC Center, revealed that charging infrastructure remains a crucial factor in the adoption of electric vehicles. The study found that 50% of respondents identified the lack of charging infrastructure as a “major reason” for not purchasing an electric vehicle, while 27% considered it a “minor reason.” This partnership between Tesla and Hilton directly addresses this critical issue, making EVs more practical and appealing for a broader audience.

For travelers embarking on long journeys across the country, a hotel stay is often part of the plan. The availability of a charging station at their accommodation will provide an efficient solution, reducing the need for frequent stops at public charging stations and allowing travelers to cover more distance on a single charge. Furthermore, with zero tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.

The groundbreaking partnership between Tesla and Hilton signifies a significant step forward for the electric vehicle industry. By expanding the charging infrastructure at Hilton locations, this collaboration not only addresses the concerns of electric vehicle drivers but also promotes sustainable transportation and environmental conservation.