Florida will soon expand the infrastructure for electric vehicles in-state with the addition of new charging stations along major thoroughfares under funding from the Volkswagen Settlement.
Announced by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the plan calls for the infrastructure evolution to go hand in hand with diesel emissions reductions. In all, the state has been granted $166 million to improve its air quality, though the state is still seeking public comment on how those funds are utilized.
“General Motors applauds Governor DeSantis for his leadership and commitment to allocate nearly $25 million to light duty EV charging infrastructure across Florida,” Mike Ableson, vice president of Electric Vehicle Charging and Infrastructure at General Motors, said. “This is a meaningful step forward in helping us realize an all-electric future as we work to achieve our vision of a world with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion.”
General Motors was not the only company excited by the prospects of the announcement, however. Duke Energy Florida, Florida Power and Light Company, Electrify America and ChargePoint all were encouraged by the news, among others.
“The Florida Department of Transportation continues to implement Governor DeSantis’ bold vision for our transportation system to increase safety, reduce congestion and embrace technology,” FDOT Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, P.E., said. “This is an exciting time for transportation technology and our comprehensive approach for electric vehicles in Florida.”
Several interstates, as well as the Miami metro area, are among those that stand to benefit from companies’ expansion efforts under the plan. Overall, the state hopes this will not only improve air quality but also urge the purchase of additional electric vehicles.