What EVgo is and where you'll find their stations

EVgo is a publicly traded company that operates one of the largest networks of fast-charging stations in the United States. Unlike Tesla's Supercharger network, which is limited to Tesla vehicles, EVgo stations are open to most electric vehicles through standardized charging connectors. As of 2024, EVgo operates thousands of fast-charging locations across the country, with the densest coverage in California, Texas, Florida, and the Northeast Corridor.

You'll find EVgo chargers at retail locations, parking lots, highway rest stops, and dedicated charging hubs. Many are located near grocery stores, shopping centers, and restaurants where you can spend time while your vehicle charges. The company has also expanded into workplace charging and multifamily residential locations, though the majority of their public network consists of DC fast chargers designed for road trips and quick top-ups rather than overnight charging.

Key Takeaways

  • EVgo operates DC fast chargers that work with most electric vehicles using CCS, CHAdeMO, or Tesla adapters, though availability varies by location.
  • You can pay per session without membership, but joining EVgo+ (a monthly subscription) reduces per-kilowatt-hour rates if you charge frequently.
  • Charging speed depends on your vehicle's capability and the charger's output, typically ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour for a full charge.
  • Finding and reserving chargers is done through the EVgo mobile app, which shows real-time availability and pricing at each location.
  • Pricing varies by location and time of day, with some stations charging by the minute and others by kilowatt-hour, so checking the app before you arrive matters.

Connector types and vehicle compatibility

EVgo stations use three main connector standards. The CCS (Combined Charging System) connector is the standard for most American-made electric vehicles and many imports, including Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, and BMW models. The CHAdeMO connector is used by some Nissan and Mitsubishi vehicles, though this standard is being phased out in the U.S. market. Tesla vehicles can charge at EVgo using a Tesla adapter, which EVgo provides at most locations.

Before your first visit, check your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm which connector your car uses. The EVgo app also lets you filter stations by connector type, so you can see which locations near you will work with your vehicle. If you own a Tesla, you'll need to have the adapter with you or request one from EVgo staff at the location.

Membership options and pricing structure

EVgo offers two ways to pay: per-session pricing or a monthly subscription called EVgo+. With per-session pricing, you pay a base fee plus a per-kilowatt-hour or per-minute charge depending on the station. Base fees typically range from $1 to $3, and per-kilowatt-hour rates vary by location but generally fall between $0.25 and $0.50 per kWh at most stations.

EVgo+ is a monthly subscription that costs between $9.99 and $19.99 per month (pricing varies by region). The subscription reduces your per-kilowatt-hour rate at most stations and may waive or reduce base fees. If you charge more than once or twice a week, the subscription usually pays for itself. You can cancel anytime, so there's no long-term commitment. Pricing and membership terms change periodically, so check the EVgo website or app for current rates in your area.

How to locate and reserve a charger

The EVgo mobile app is the primary tool for finding stations. You can search by address, see real-time availability (how many chargers are in use and how many are free), check pricing, and view estimated wait times. The app shows your vehicle's charging curve, which helps you understand how long a full charge will take based on your car's specifications.

You can reserve a charger for up to 15 minutes before you arrive, which guarantees a spot will be held for you. Reservations are useful at popular locations during peak hours, though most stations have multiple chargers so availability is usually not a problem. If you arrive and a charger is broken or occupied, the app will show you the next nearest location and its availability in real time.

What to expect during the charging process

When you arrive at an EVgo station, pull into a parking spot with a charger, open your vehicle's charging port, and select your charger number on the EVgo app or at the physical kiosk. Plug in the appropriate connector for your vehicle. The charger will communicate with your car to determine the maximum charging speed your vehicle can accept, then begin charging automatically.

Charging speed depends on two factors: your vehicle's maximum charging rate and the charger's output. Most EVgo DC fast chargers deliver between 50 kW and 350 kW of power. A vehicle that can accept 150 kW will charge faster at a 350 kW charger than at a 50 kW charger, but only up to its own limit. For example, charging a Chevrolet Bolt EV (which maxes out around 55 kW) typically takes 25 to 35 minutes to reach 80% charge, while a newer Hyundai Ioniq 6 (which can accept over 200 kW) might reach 80% in 15 to 20 minutes at a high-power charger.

Most drivers stop charging at 80% rather than waiting for a full 100% charge, because charging speed slows dramatically in the final 20% to protect battery health. The app shows your charge percentage in real time and will notify you when you reach your target level.

Pricing variations and cost comparison

EVgo's pricing structure differs from other networks. Some stations charge by the minute (typically $0.35 to $0.50 per minute), while others charge by kilowatt-hour. Minute-based pricing can be unpredictable because a slow charger or a vehicle with a low charging rate will cost more for the same amount of energy. Kilowatt-hour pricing is more transparent: you pay for the actual electricity you use, regardless of how long it takes.

To compare costs, use the EVgo app to check the pricing method and rate at your intended charging location before you plug in. A 30-minute session at a minute-based charger ($0.40 per minute) costs $12, while the same session at a kilowatt-hour charger might cost $6 to $8 depending on your vehicle's charging rate. EVgo+ membership typically saves $2 to $5 per session if you're a regular user, so the math changes based on how often you charge.

Troubleshooting and support

If a charger is broken or won't start, the EVgo app has a "Report an Issue" button that notifies the company when ready. You can also call EVgo customer service, though the app-based reporting is faster for getting the problem documented. If you're charged incorrectly, you can dispute the charge through the app or by contacting support within 30 days of the transaction.

Common issues include chargers that won't communicate with your vehicle (usually solved by unplugging and replugging), payment method failures (update your card in the app), and chargers that stop mid-session (rare, but the app will show you the nearest alternative). EVgo's network uptime is generally high, but older stations or those in remote areas may have longer repair times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge my Tesla at EVgo?

Yes, but you need a Tesla-to-CCS adapter. EVgo provides these adapters at most locations, though you should confirm availability before arriving. Some newer Tesla locations have built-in CCS ports and don't require an adapter. Check the EVgo app to see which stations near you have adapters available.

What happens if I leave my car plugged in after charging is complete?

EVgo charges an idle fee if your vehicle remains connected after charging stops. The fee typically ranges from $0.40 to $0.50 per minute and begins after a grace period (usually 5 to 10 minutes). The app will send you notifications as you approach the grace period, so you have time to unplug before fees start.

Is EVgo+ worth it if I only charge once a month?

Probably not. A single monthly charge at per-session rates costs $3 to $8, while EVgo+ costs $9.99 to $19.99 per month. You'd need to charge at least twice a week for the subscription to save money. If you charge infrequently, pay per session and skip the membership.

Do I need to read the app to charge, or can I use a credit card?

Most EVgo stations require the app to initiate charging, though some older locations have physical card readers. The app is the standard method and gives you real-time information about your charge, so downloading it before your first visit is the best approach. You'll need to create an account and add a payment method either way.

How long does it take to charge from empty to full?

It depends on your vehicle and the charger's power output. Most drivers reach 80% charge in 20 to 45 minutes at a modern EVgo fast charger. Reaching 100% takes significantly longer (often another 30 to 60 minutes) because charging speed slows to protect the battery, so most people stop at 80% for road trips.