Private Sector Urged for Electric Vehicle Transition, Not Government, Says Love’s Travel Stops Official | Energy

Originally published via okenergytoday.com

Kim Okafor, General Manager of Zero Emission Solutions for Love’s Travel Stops and Trillium Energy, delivered a cautionary message to a Congressional subcommittee exploring the government’s role in creating a nationwide movement toward electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels.

Speaking before the House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Okafor emphasized the importance of allowing private enterprise and consumers to drive the transition, rather than relying solely on government intervention.

During the hearing on “It’s Electric: A Review of Fleet Electrification Efforts,” Okafor highlighted that the U.S. already boasts a robust and highly competitive refueling network, making it unnecessary to create an entirely new infrastructure for electric transportation energy. She stressed that fuel retailers, such as Love’s Travel Stops, are well-equipped to provide various types of fuel, catering to consumer preferences and demands.

Furthermore, Okafor emphasized that any new program for electric or alternative fuels should prioritize consumer expectations, including 24-hour access, food services, security, restrooms, and adequate lighting. While the federal government has invested significant funds in developing Interstate highway EV charging networks, Okafor argued that commercial operators are better suited for such initiatives.

“Fuel retailers are best positioned to provide alternative sources of transportation energy because we have a keen understanding of on-the-go refueling preferences based on decades of studying them,” Okafor stated.

Advocating for competitive market dynamics, Okafor cautioned that any government policies should ensure a functioning private market to drive infrastructure development. She warned against the risk of public funds being stranded and wasted without serving a significant number of consumers.

Testifying on behalf of NATSO, representing truck stops and travel plazas, and SIGMA: America’s Leading Fuel Marketers, Okafor underscored the industry’s commitment to investing in new refueling technologies and infrastructure. She highlighted the participation of fuel retailers in the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) grant program, with a significant portion of EV charging stations set to be constructed at truck stops and travel centers.

Additionally, Okafor advocated for hydrogen as a compelling emissions reduction technology for heavy-duty trucking, leveraging existing refueling infrastructure and energy supply chains.

Okafor called for competitive, transparent electricity pricing and harmonized state application standards under the NEVI grant program to ensure consistent consumer experiences nationwide.

NATSO and SIGMA, representing approximately 80 percent of fuel sold at retail, support policies incentivizing fuel retailers to invest in alternative fuels, facilitating a faster and more widespread transition to electric vehicle charging.

NATSO is the trade association of America’s travel plaza and truck stop industry, while SIGMA is the national trade association representing the most successful, progressive, and innovative fuel marketers and chain retailers in the United States and Canada.