A leading electric vehicle charger manufacturer has set up shop in Maryland and announced the proposed construction of a new facility.
Blink Charging has moved north from its previous home in Miami, Florida, establishing its new global headquarters in Prince George's County.
The company also intends to deliver a new manufacturing site in the area, with plans to build a 30,000-square-foot factory to build 50,000 charging units every year.
Blink president and CEO Brendan Jones said in a statement: "Blink Charging is proud and excited to be establishing our global headquarters and production facility in Maryland, marking a pivotal moment in our journey toward a greener future."
At present, the company produces around 15,000 charging units annually, so the new facility would represent a huge bump in output, which is crucial as EVs become more popular.
Hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery EVs made up 16.3% of light-duty vehicle sales in the country in 2023, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, rising from 12.9% of total sales the year prior. Sales of plug-in hybrid cars in particular rose 31% last year after surging up 60% in 2022 over 2021 sales.
"Currently the US adds 900 chargers a week," observed one commenter on Electrek's report of Blink's move. "Let's hope Blink can accelerate the adoption of EVs."
While Blink's increased output will help to reduce range anxiety among EV drivers by delivering more charging infrastructure, it should also help to dispel concerns among people on the fence about swapping a dirty-fuel-powered car for a clean electric one.
Meanwhile, Blink's presence in Maryland is expected to help the state reach its own climate goals.
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"We are thrilled to welcome Blink's headquarters to the Great State of Maryland," state governor Wes Moore said in a statement. "This decision not only affirms our commitment to climate action but also supports our efforts to create new job opportunities and enhance Maryland's competitiveness. Together, we will meet our goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2035, and we will ensure that climate justice drives economic justice."
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