XCharge North America and JOJO Superfast EV Charging have joined forces to deploy a high-power EV charging network across Illinois, marking another significant step forward in expanding reliable fast-charging infrastructure in the Midwest.
The partnership kicks off with nine strategically located sites, many hosted at Menards stores—bringing ultra-fast charging directly to places where drivers already shop and spend time. This retail-focused approach aims to make EV charging more convenient and accessible, especially for drivers across Chicagoland and beyond.
800kW Sites with High-Speed Charging
Each location will deliver up to 800kW of total charging capacity, powered by four 200kW C6 Smart DC fast chargers. With two ports per charger, that means eight vehicles can charge simultaneously at each site—because waiting in line is so last decade.
XCharge North America is handling the entire deployment process, from planning and construction to final activation, through its turnkey solutions team. In other words, they’re not just dropping off chargers and wishing them luck.
First Wave of Locations
The first wave of installations includes a mix of operational sites and upcoming launches throughout 2026:
– Crestwood (now operational)
– Bridgeview (now operational)
– Hodgkins (May 2026)
– Tinley Park (May 2026)
– Sterling (Q3 2026)
– Freeport (Q3 2026)
– Galesburg (Q3 2026)
– Main St. Carbondale (Q3 2026)
– Aurora Outlet Mall (Q3 2026)
To mark the launch, JOJO Superfast hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Crestwood Menards location—the first fully operational site—bringing together local officials, utility representatives, and company leadership.
Powered by Incentives and Collaboration
This project highlights how public-private collaboration can accelerate EV adoption. The rollout leverages key state and utility programs, including:
– ComEd’s “Make-Ready” rebate, which helps offset the cost of electrical infrastructure upgrades required for high-capacity charging
– Illinois EPA’s Driving a Cleaner Illinois program, funded through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), aimed at expanding equitable access to clean transportation
Together, these initiatives helped transform incentives into tangible infrastructure that benefits local communities.
Reducing Range Anxiety in the Midwest
Beyond hardware deployment, the partnership is focused on improving the real-world EV ownership experience. By placing ultra-fast chargers at high-traffic retail destinations, the network aims to eliminate range anxiety and integrate charging seamlessly into daily routines.
JOJO Superfast CEO Joe Sheehan emphasized the importance of accessibility, noting that expanding charging options—especially in underserved areas—can fundamentally change how drivers perceive EV ownership.
Meanwhile, XCharge North America leadership highlighted their mission to deliver not just chargers, but a reliable, high-performance charging ecosystem that gives drivers confidence on the road.
