United Dairy Farmers (UDF), a regional convenience store and ice cream parlor chain, is installing Electric Era DC fast chargers at six locations in Greater Cincinnati and Columbus.
The six locations were selected through Ohio’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. UDF worked with Electric Era, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and utility partners to apply for the NEVI grant.
UDF selected some of its newest stores, which are close to major highways and feature expanded food and beverage options, indoor and outdoor seating areas and clear sightlines to the charging area.
The Electric Era chargers use battery-backed charging technology designed to provide high-speed charging while managing demands on the electric grid. Electric Era combines grid power with on-site battery storage and proprietary software to optimize power delivery, reduce peak demand and maintain charging performance when grid capacity is limited.
The charging stations will be integrated with UDF’s U-Drive Plus loyalty program, allowing members to receive credits toward charging, similar to the fuel discounts available through the program.
UDF expects the chargers to begin coming online in early 2027. The company will evaluate charging demand and customer behavior at the six locations to inform plans for future expansion.
UDF Head of Retail Jim Dwenger said: “Adding fast EV charging allows us to provide the fuel of the future while giving guests a welcoming place to recharge themselves with a scoop of their favorite ice cream, a meal, a snack or a drink.”
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