Costco is testing a bold new way for shoppers to power up while they shop. In a Florida warehouse parking lot, the retailer installed six ultra-fast EV charging stations in just 54 days—a record in the world of charging infrastructure.

Rapid Deployment from Concept to Operation

After signing a deal in early April, the plans and permits were locked in within days. By mid-May, hardware was on-site. And by the end of May, drivers could already be plugging in. This rapid rollout was made possible by installing cutting-edge battery-backed chargers that significantly reduce the need for extensive utility upgrades, paving the way for smoother and faster integration.

Chargers Built for Convenience

These aren’t your average EV chargers. They’re powerful enough to boost a vehicle’s battery to 80% in just 20 to 60 minutes. Each station supports both CCS and NACS connectors, features constant remote health monitoring, automatic fault detection, and over-the-air updates to ensure reliability. Plus, they’re equipped with 32-inch screens for promotional content and loyalty integration so members can get perks while they charge.

Built by Innovators

Behind the innovation is Electric Era, a startup formed by former SpaceX engineers. Applying a “first principles” design mindset, their team streamlined the engineering, manufacturing, and installation process—transforming what’s often a multi-month project into a smooth, compact timeline.

A Smart Strategy—for Everyone

For Costco, each charging session means customers linger longer in-store, increasing the likelihood of additional purchases. For EV drivers, this makes charging seamless—just plug in, pop inside for groceries, and return to a ready-to-go car. It’s a win-win setup that aligns well with today’s retail and sustainability trends.

What Comes Next?

Florida might have been just the start. With scalability baked into the design—and government programs offering incentives for reliable, high-performance charging infrastructure—Costco’s pilot could become a nationwide model, setting a new standard for how retail spaces serve electric vehicle owners.