bp pulse has launched its latest large-scale electric vehicle charging hub near Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This facility marks the sixth major airport-adjacent hub opened by the company in 2025, following similar launches in Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, and Houston.
Highlights
- The site features 40 ultrafast charging bays equipped with 400kW and 150kW DC fast chargers.
- The hub supports both CCS and NACS connector standards to accommodate diverse vehicle fleets.
- Strategic location three miles from ORD aims to serve high-volume ride-hail and local drivers.
- Project funding was supported by $820,000 in combined grants and rebates from ComEd and the Illinois EPA.
Strategic Infrastructure Expansion
The ORD hub is a central component of bp pulse’s strategy to establish a national charging network. By placing infrastructure near high-traffic aviation centers, the company addresses the specific needs of commercial ride-hail operators and travelers.
The facility includes a covered canopy and free Wi-Fi to improve the user experience. Drivers also have access to an adjacent bp-branded retail site, which offers a convenience store, coffee shop, and restaurant facilities.
Technical Specifications and Connectivity
The installation prioritizes speed and compatibility. With a mix of 400kW and 150kW units, the site can deliver significant range in minimal time. The inclusion of NACS connectors reflects the industry-wide shift toward North American charging standards.
Sujay Sharma, CEO of bp pulse Americas, noted that placing hubs in high-demand locations ensures drivers have the fast, reliable charging required for commercial and personal use.
Collaborative Funding and Grid Integration
The project utilized public and private financial incentives to offset installation costs. ComEd provided a $500,000 “Make Ready” rebate to support the electrical infrastructure.
Additionally, the Illinois EPA contributed a $320,000 grant through the “Driving a Cleaner Illinois” program. This initiative is part of the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which has funded over 300 charging locations across Illinois.
Future Network Growth
bp pulse currently operates more than 40,000 charge points globally. In the United States, the company is integrating chargers across its existing retail brands, including Amoco, ampm, Thorntons, and TravelCenters of America.
The company continues to focus on urban hubs and fleet-specific locations to meet the increasing demand for electrification in the transport sector.
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