Kentucky is looking to become the 'global automotive leader' after securing almost $18 million to improve EV infrastructure

Kentucky is charging ahead in the global EV race, having just secured $17.8 million in federal funds to supercharge its EV infrastructure.

The additional funding will pave the way for easier electric travel for residents and visitors to the state.

The state has now committed nearly $55 million in total towards expanding its charging network under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEV) program.

It’s the latest move in Kentucky’s drive to become a global automotive leader.

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Kentucky is one of the biggest EV manufacturers in the US

Kentucky has been quietly building its EV foundation for years.

As one of America’s top automotive producers, the state is also the EV battery capital of the US.

It has attracted $13.5 billion in EV-related investments, and created more than 10,000 full-time jobs in the sector.

It’s home to major battery plants and automakers that are powering the nation’s electric future.

In fact, Toyota is reportedly set to build two of its latest EVs in Kentucky, based on the Land Cruiser and RAV4.

But until recently, the public charging network lagged behind the state’s manufacturing success.

However, everything is about to change.

What the state will do with the funding

According to Governor Andy Beshear, the funding will help the state expand its EV reach, and strengthen its role as a national automotive powerhouse.

The new funds will drive Phase 2 and Phase 3 of Kentucky’s EV rollout, adding chargers along key corridors, local communities, and major travel destinations.

So far, the state has awarded 46 fast-charging sites along interstates and parkways.

Five stations are already open, with three more under construction.

All 46 are set to be operational by 2026, each featuring at least four high-speed 150-kilowatt chargers open to the public 24/7.

Outside of major cities, EV infrastructure across North America tends to lag behind those of many countries, like Norway.

Kentucky is looking to change that, by installing EV chargers at a faster rate than other states.

However, it will be some time before it catches up to California, which is now the first state to have more EV chargers than gas pumps.

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