Kansas is experiencing a significant surge in its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, propelled by both federal funding and state initiatives. Between 2021 and 2023, the state saw a remarkable 104% increase in DC fast-charging ports, alongside a 9% rise in Level 2 charging ports. This expansion aligns with a growing demand for EVs, evidenced by a 54% jump in EV sales from model year 2022 to 2023. A substantial investment of $39.5 million over five years, allocated through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program under the Kansas Department of Transportation's (KDOT) "Charge Up Kansas NEVI plan," is a primary driver for this growth. The Kansas City metropolitan area has also been a focal point, witnessing a 78% increase in EVs from 2016 to 2017, with plans for 256 new charging points, many in underserved communities, further boosting the region's EV readiness.

The "Charge Up Kansas NEVI plan" specifically targets major interstates and U.S. highways for the development of EV charging corridors, aiming to cover approximately 1,600 miles. Key highways identified for this infrastructure build-out include I-70, I-35, I-135, US 400, and US 81 (from I-70 north to the Nebraska state line). KDOT has already committed over $11.4 million across two rounds of NEVI funding for 15 new DC fast-charging stations along these critical routes. While Emporia hosts the first operational station from these awards, the remaining 14 locations have received conditional awards and are awaiting construction. These strategically placed stations are designed to bridge existing gaps in the charging network, complementing existing facilities, particularly along the I-70 and I-135 corridors.