Chicago’s EV charging stations boom despite Canada’s slumping sales

A quiet revolution is unfolding in Chicago’s streets. While EV sales stall nationwide, its public chargers are busier than ever—proving demand isn’t fading.

, and Administrator

2025 December 8 . 7:08 AM

1 min read

In this image on both sides there are buildings, electric poles. There are few vehicles parked in... — In this image on both sides there are buildings, electric poles. There are few vehicles parked in front of the buildings. In the middle there is a road.

Chicago’s EV charging stations boom despite Canada’s slumping sales

When Chicago’s first public charging stations opened in February 2022, they logged just 56 uses. By June 2024, that number had climbed to 1,360. The city now operates 18 of over 200 public stations, with plans to add more through the federal Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP).

The pause in federal rebates and the review of sales mandates have slowed zero-emission vehicle registrations in 2025. Yet public charging stations in Chicago continue to see growing use, particularly in areas where private charging is scarce. The city’s expansion plans, backed by provincial and federal support, aim to meet increasing demand.