Rove’s First All-In-One EV Plaza: Charging, Shopping & More

The new station, located at 1008 E 17th Street, just off the Five Freeway, features 40 charging spots that handle all major EV formats, including Tesla and CCS (Combined Charging System). There are 28 V4 Tesla Superchargers with Magic Docks and 12 CCS chargers, two of which offer ultra-fast 350kW charging. The station also includes two CHAdeMO chargers for those driving older EV models, ensuring compatibility with many vehicles.

Rove’s charging plaza is partially powered by a 222kW solar canopy that provides shade and helps charge the station’s 4MWh on-site battery storage. This battery system plays a key role in balancing electricity demand and pricing, though the cost of charging at the station is 58 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Drivers can easily pay through the Rove app or by using a credit card at the station.

What sets Rove apart from traditional EV charging stations is its focus on providing a comprehensive service environment for drivers. The station boasts a variety of facilities aimed at enhancing the charging experience. One of the standout features is a mini Gelson’s market, a Southern California-based grocery chain known for its upscale products. Branded as “ReCharge by Gelson’s,” the store offers fresh food options like sandwiches, sushi, baked goods, and freshly cut fruit, providing EV drivers with healthier choices than typical gas station fare.

Rove also offers a lounge area with free Wi-Fi, perfect for drivers who want to catch up on work or relax while waiting for their vehicle to charge. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available, and the station will be open 24/7, complete with security personnel to ensure a safe environment. Additionally, clean restrooms and other conveniences like complimentary vacuums, air pumps, and windshield washer stations are provided, making it easy to take care of basic car maintenance while charging.

For those who want to do more than just recharge their vehicles, the Santa Ana location also features a car wash and even a small dog park, making it an ideal stop for pet owners. While future Rove locations may not all include these features, the company plans to tailor each site to the needs of the area. For instance, a future location in Corona will feature larger parking spaces for bigger vehicles, highlighting Rove’s adaptability and customer-focused approach.

Rove’s expansion plans are ambitious. Additional locations will soon open in Costa Mesa, Torrance, Corona, and Long Beach. The company eventually aims to expand beyond Southern California, though that is still a future goal.

This new model of EV charging stations promises to transform how drivers view charging their vehicles, making the process more convenient, enjoyable, and efficient. By combining fast charging with various useful services, Rove is positioning itself as a key player in the future of EV infrastructure, offering a glimpse into what full-service EV stations could look like across the country.