NewsTradingSentimentCalendarCommunityBriefing
Tech

State DOTs Expand EV Charging Networks with New Federal Funds

By Tech Desk · 2026-09-18 · 2 min read
A row of sleek, modern electric vehicle charging stations standing along a quiet highway rest area
Illustration: Tradingbird

Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Minnesota have released new federal grants to build public electric vehicle chargers, aiming to reduce range anxiety for long-distance travelers.

State departments of transportation in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Minnesota have recently issued new funding to expand their electric vehicle charging networks. These allocations are part of the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, designed to build out public charging stations across the country. The moves represent a significant step toward reducing range anxiety for drivers who travel long distances.

According to reporting from GN auto tech/ev, these states are directing substantial federal dollars toward the construction of new fast-charging sites. While the total amounts vary by region, the goal remains consistent: to ensure that EV owners have reliable access to power while on the road. This expansion is crucial for making electric vehicles a practical option for a wider audience.

Pennsylvania Directs Over One Hundred Million Dollars

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has recently awarded $32 million to support charger construction in the eastern part of the state. This latest round follows an earlier $11 million allocation for central Pennsylvania and similar announcements in the southeast and west regions. Altogether, the state is directing over $100 million in federal funding specifically for public charging stations.

In addition to this new federal money, Pennsylvania has already invested $58 million in its Alternative Fuel Corridors and Corridor Connections programs. The agency reports that it has supported the construction of nearly 50 stations using these funds so far. Another 41 stations are currently in various stages of planning and construction, signaling a massive upcoming addition to the state's infrastructure.

North Carolina Awards Funds To Eight Businesses

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has recently awarded $14.4 million to eight private businesses. These companies will be responsible for constructing and operating charging stations in 14 different locations across the state. This new development joins five other stations that were already built in 2024 using funds from the same federal program.

State officials note that the number of registered electric vehicles in North Carolina continues to rise. The full charging network funded through this program is expected to be completed within three years. A later phase of development will focus on placing chargers in rural communities and other areas with greater needs, ensuring that the benefits of this infrastructure are distributed widely.

Minnesota Releases Largest Funding Round Yet

The Minnesota Department of Transportation made more than $41 million available in early September. This marks the third and largest round of funding from the federal program for the state. Proposals for projects seeking this money are due by November 2, indicating that the selection process is currently underway.

Roughly 80 percent of this third-round funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, with the remaining 20 percent provided by the backers of the charging projects. To date, Minnesota has released two previous rounds totaling over $16 million. These earlier funds have already supported 24 fast-charging sites along major interstate highways, including I-94, I-35, and I-90.

Based on reporting by AASHTO Journal, compiled by the Tradingbird desk.

Read next

More in Tech

More from the Tech desk

All desk stories
  • A modern industrial workshop with robotic arms assembling furniture components
    Illustration: Tradingbird

    Chinasoft International Wins Smart Home Contract in Foshan

    Chinasoft International has secured a major contract to build an AI-driven smart home center in Foshan, marking a strategic shift from project-based IT services to a deeper role in the industrial manufacturing ecosystem.

    2026-09-18
  • A sleek smartphone box sitting on a doorstep next to a delivery scooter
    Illustration: Tradingbird

    India's 10-Minute iPhone Delivery Model Faces Immediate Stock Limits

    Quick-commerce apps in India delivered new iPhone 18 Pro models within minutes, but this convenience came with a catch: immediate stock depletion in major cities. While the speed is impressive, the volume of these ultra-fast sales remains a small fraction of total market demand.

    2026-09-18
  • A white and orange pressure suit hanging on a metal rack inside a spacecraft module
    Illustration: Tradingbird

    Europe's New Spacesuit Prototype Needs Significant Refinement

    Astronaut Sophie Adenot reports that the EuroSuit prototype is far from ready for prime time, highlighting early challenges in fit and usability during its first on-orbit tests.

    2026-09-18