Ford is in the midst of a major PR campaign to drive support of its new Focus Electric and C-MAX Energy electric vehicles. And what better way to build buzz than a top 20 list of … charging station locations? Yes, that’s right, EV charging stations are so much cooler than your traditional gas station.
Two of the top 20 on the list are in Washington state, including charging stations at CenturyLink Field and Stevens Pass Ski Area. Each location was evaluated based on a number of factors, including proximity to scenic views or shopping.
Ford said that there will be about 3,000 public charging stations in the U.S. by the end of this year, with that number expected to quadruple by the end of 2013.
Here’s a look at the others on the list:
Edison Park Fast Lot – New York City: Charge in the middle of the Big Apple at this station near Times Square and Broadway.
Fashion Island, Newport Beach, Calif.: Shoppers can hit one of Orange County’s premier outdoor shopping centers while their car charges outside.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco: Thisdestination lets visitors recharge while they enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, and sightseeing in the city by the bay’s popular tourist area.
Give Kids the World Village, Kissimmee, Fla.: This nonprofit center gives children with life-threatening illnesses a memorable experience they will never forget. It also set up EV charging forfriends, families and contributors.
Greenville Zoo, Greenville, S.C.: A charge station at this zoo lets visitors spend time with wild animals while their vehicle charges.
Hall Wines and Clif Family Winery, St. Helena, Calif.: Charging stations at these two wineries let visitors take in the scenery while their vehicle charges.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Honolulu, Hawaii:Schedule rest and relaxation at this beach resort as your electric vehicle charges outside.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, Houston: Visitors can have a day of fun with nature and animals while their vehicle charges.
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles: Whether attending a convention or a Lakers game at the nearby Staples Center, this location offers a convenient location for visitors to charge their electricvehicles.
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore: Charging stations at the home of the Baltimore Ravens let fans tailgate and cheer their team on while their electric vehicle charges.
Malibu Country Mart, Malibu, Calif.: A charge station at this unique shopping experience lets visitors look for celebrities or hit the stores while their vehicle charges.
Mall of America – Bloomington, MN: EV drivers can enjoy shopping, entertainment, and a variety of other attractions at this mega-mall while their vehicle charges.
Magnificent Mile – Downtown Chicago: Located on Michigan Avenue, allows EV drivers to enjoy the experiences of one of the most iconic streets in America.
Mint Street Parking Garage – Downtown Charlotte, N.C.: A first-class view of downtown Charlotte gives these charging station users a unique perspective.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.: This solar-powered electric vehicle charging station offers an extremely energy efficient way to charge.
Peaches Bed & Breakfast, Grand Rapids, Mich.: Spend the night at this historic manor while your electric vehicle charges.
Ruby Falls, Chattanooga, Tenn.: Charge your vehicle while visiting the Americas highest underground waterfalls.
Santa Monica PlazaShopping Center, Santa Monica, Calif.:Beach lovers can head to this charging station for easy access to the Santa Monica Pier.
Science Museum of Richmond and Children’s Museum of Richmond, Va.: Set between two museums, visitors will have a choice of destination with easy access to charging.
