The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on February 15, 2023 final Buy America rules requiring that all electric vehicle chargers funded by the federal government be assembled in the USA, The Detroit News reported.
The rules
- Federal Highway Administration guidance requires USA final assembly and USA-made iron and steel charger enclosures.
- By July 2024, at least 55% of the cost of all charger components must also be USA-made.
- A full waiver of Buy America rules stayed in place while FHWA wrote the final rule.
Industry readiness
Thirteen companies told FHWA they could build chargers that meet the requirements, but only three, ChargePoint, FreeWire Technologies and Rhombus, said they could build fast chargers. Charging companies had asked FHWA to delay the rules until at least 2024.
The 2021 infrastructure law set aside $5 billion for a national charging network along designated alternative fuel corridors, with the federal government paying up to 80% of installation costs.
FAQ
What must be USA-made?
Final assembly and iron and steel enclosures now; 55% of component cost by July 2024.
Which chargers are covered?
Chargers funded by federal programs such as the $5 billion national network.
Who said they could comply on fast chargers?
ChargePoint, FreeWire Technologies and Rhombus.
Source & credit
Source: The Detroit News, February 15, 2023: “Feds finalize Buy America rules for EV chargers”.