EV Charging Revolution: Reliability Challenges, California Milestones, and Next-Generation Technologies Reshaping Los Angeles Infrastructure

Introduction

The electric vehicle charging industry is experiencing a period of dramatic transformation, with groundbreaking innovations emerging alongside critical infrastructure challenges that demand immediate attention. As a leading electrical contractor specializing in EV charger installation in Los Angeles, Shaffer Construction, Inc. closely monitors these developments to ensure our clients benefit from the most reliable, future-proof charging solutions available. This past week has brought particularly significant news—from sobering reliability reports highlighting widespread charging failures to California’s historic infrastructure milestone, revolutionary megawatt charging technology, explosive wireless charging market growth, and battery swapping systems gaining traction as viable alternatives. For property owners, businesses, and municipalities throughout Southern California, understanding these developments is essential for making informed infrastructure investment decisions. In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll examine five major stories shaping the EV charging landscape and explore their direct implications for your charging infrastructure projects in Los Angeles and beyond.

The Hidden Charging Crisis: Only 71% of Charging Attempts Succeed

A comprehensive new report from ChargerHelp! has revealed a troubling reality behind America’s EV charging infrastructure: despite charging stations showing 98.7% to 99% uptime rates, only 71% of charging attempts actually succeed. This startling disconnect between reported uptime and actual user experience represents one of the most significant barriers to widespread EV adoption. The 2025 EV Charging Reliability Report analyzed over 100,000 charging sessions across 2,400 chargers nationwide, providing unprecedented insight into the real-world performance of public charging infrastructure.

The report introduces a critical new metric—first-time charge success rate, or FTCSR—which measures whether drivers can successfully initiate a charge on their first attempt. While infrastructure operators typically focus on uptime statistics that indicate whether equipment is powered and ostensibly operational, FTCSR reveals what EV drivers actually experience when they plug in. According to ChargerHelp! CEO Kameale Terry, “Uptime tells us if a charger is available, but it doesn’t tell us if a driver can actually plug in and get a charge.” This distinction is crucial: more than one-third of charging failures occur on equipment that appears fully operational according to traditional uptime monitoring.

Perhaps most concerning is how charging reliability deteriorates over time. New charging stations average an 85% success rate during their first year of operation—already below ideal but reasonably acceptable. However, performance drops dramatically to approximately 70% by year three, representing a 15-point decline in just two years. This aging problem stems primarily from protocol incompatibility: newer electric vehicles implement updated charging communication protocols that older infrastructure cannot accommodate without significant equipment upgrades or complete replacement. The complex software interactions between vehicles, charging stations, payment systems, and network management platforms create numerous failure points, many of which become apparent only as technology evolves.

For Los Angeles property owners and businesses considering EV charging infrastructure investments, these findings carry significant implications. Simply installing charging equipment is insufficient—ongoing maintenance, software updates, and eventual equipment replacement must be factored into long-term planning and budgeting. At Shaffer Construction, we emphasize reliability from day one by installing commercial-grade equipment from manufacturers committed to backward compatibility and regular firmware updates. We also provide comprehensive maintenance agreements that include preventive service, software updates, and rapid response to reported issues, ensuring your charging infrastructure delivers consistent performance throughout its operational life. Our installations incorporate network connectivity for real-time monitoring, allowing us to identify and address potential problems before they impact users. Whether you’re installing Level 2 chargers for workplace or multifamily use, or DC fast chargers for commercial applications, we design systems with redundancy and serviceability at the forefront, protecting your investment and ensuring positive user experiences that keep EV drivers returning to your property.

California Surpasses 200,000 Public EV Chargers, Setting National Benchmark

In a historic milestone for electric transportation infrastructure, California now has 201,180 fully public and shared electric vehicle charging ports available throughout the state, representing 68% more charger ports than gasoline nozzles statewide. This remarkable achievement, announced by the California Energy Commission in late September 2025, reflects an increase of 22,631 new chargers since the previous count in March 2025—demonstrating continued rapid expansion even as the state’s EV infrastructure matures. The milestone positions California as the undisputed national leader in electric vehicle charging accessibility and sets a benchmark other states will aspire to reach as EV adoption accelerates nationwide.

The geographic distribution of charging infrastructure has reached impressive coverage, with 94% of Californians now living within just 10 minutes of an EV charger. This widespread accessibility addresses one of the most persistent concerns among potential EV buyers: charging availability. The network includes a diverse mix of charging technologies, with the majority being Level 2 chargers that provide 25 to 35 miles of range per hour of charging—ideal for workplace, multifamily, and destination charging applications where vehicles remain parked for extended periods. DC fast chargers, which can deliver nearly a full charge in 15 to 45 minutes, have also grown substantially, with DCFC ports increasing 14% since the last count while Level 2 charging ports expanded by 25%.

Beyond light-duty passenger vehicles, California has invested heavily in infrastructure for medium and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles, with 20,093 charging and hydrogen fueling points now available—an increase of 3,766 points (23%) since February 2025. This focus on commercial transportation infrastructure reflects California’s comprehensive approach to transportation electrification, recognizing that medium and heavy-duty vehicles, while representing just 6% of road vehicles, contribute 35% of transportation-related emissions. The expansion of commercial charging infrastructure creates opportunities for businesses operating delivery fleets, shuttle services, and other commercial transportation to transition to electric vehicles with confidence in charging availability.

For Los Angeles businesses and property owners, California’s charging infrastructure leadership translates directly into market opportunities. EV adoption continues accelerating throughout Southern California, driven by state incentives, expanding vehicle options, and California’s mandate that all new passenger vehicles sold in the state be zero-emission by 2035. Properties equipped with charging infrastructure gain competitive advantages in attracting environmentally conscious tenants, customers, and employees. Multifamily properties with charging amenities command rent premiums and experience reduced vacancy rates. Retail and hospitality properties with charging stations enjoy increased customer dwell time and loyalty. Employers offering workplace charging gain advantages in recruiting and retention.

Shaffer Construction specializes in helping Los Angeles property owners capitalize on California’s EV infrastructure momentum. We provide comprehensive services from initial site assessment through final commissioning and ongoing support. Our team navigates complex California requirements including Title 24 building codes, utility interconnection processes, accessibility standards, and local permitting. We design installations that maximize available incentives from sources including the California Energy Commission, LADWP, and various regional programs, reducing your upfront investment while ensuring compliance with all technical standards. Our installations are future-ready, with electrical infrastructure sized to accommodate expansion as demand grows. From single-charger installations at small commercial properties to complete charging plazas serving dozens of vehicles simultaneously, we deliver turnkey solutions that position your property for success in California’s electric future.

Siemens Introduces SICHARGE FLEX: Megawatt Charging for the Next Generation

At Busworld 2025 in Brussels, Siemens unveiled its next-generation charging platform that represents a quantum leap in EV charging capability. The SICHARGE FLEX system delivers power ranging from 480 kW to over 1.68 megawatts with maximum charging current of 1,500 amps, making it one of the most powerful commercially available charging systems in the world. While initially designed for heavy-duty applications including electric trucks and buses, the system’s support for both Combined Charging System (CCS) and Megawatt Charging System (MCS) standards positions it to serve next-generation passenger vehicles as automakers develop EVs capable of accepting ultra-high charging rates.

The technical sophistication of SICHARGE FLEX extends far beyond raw power output. The system features fully dynamic power distribution, intelligently allocating available capacity across up to four MCS charge points based on real-time demand. This intelligent power management maximizes utilization efficiency: rather than dedicating fixed power capacity to each charging point regardless of demand, the system dynamically shifts power to wherever it’s needed, ensuring optimal use of available electrical capacity. The modular architecture delivers power density up to 656 kW per square meter, allowing high-capacity charging infrastructure to occupy minimal physical space—a crucial advantage in urban environments where real estate costs are high and available space is limited.

Flexibility represents another key advantage of the SICHARGE FLEX platform. Dispensers can be located up to 300 meters from the central power cabinet, providing unprecedented design freedom for challenging site layouts. Mounting options include floor, wall, or overhead configurations, accommodating diverse architectural requirements and space constraints. The system integrates with Siemens’ Sifinity Control cloud-based monitoring platform and DepotFinity energy management system, providing operators with comprehensive visibility into charging operations, energy consumption, and equipment health. These digital tools enable predictive maintenance, load optimization, and detailed usage analytics that inform operational and investment decisions.

The first SICHARGE FLEX installation is planned for an OMV site in Kufstein, Austria—a strategically important location along the A12 corridor connecting Germany and Italy. The installation will initially feature six charging points with capacity to expand to ten, serving passenger cars, electric trucks, and electric buses at a single high-capacity charging hub. Commercial availability is scheduled for 2026, with Siemens targeting deployment at logistics facilities, fleet depots, public charging plazas, and strategic highway corridors throughout Europe and North America.

For forward-thinking Los Angeles businesses and property owners, megawatt charging technology offers a glimpse into the infrastructure requirements of the next decade. While current passenger EVs cannot yet utilize megawatt charging rates, commercial vehicles including delivery trucks, shuttle buses, and fleet vehicles are rapidly approaching these capabilities. Properties serving commercial transportation applications should consider electrical infrastructure capable of supporting future megawatt charging deployment. At Shaffer Construction, we design installations with generous capacity headroom, ensuring today’s infrastructure can accommodate tomorrow’s technology without requiring complete electrical system replacement. We conduct detailed load analysis accounting for simultaneous charging demand, available utility capacity, and anticipated fleet growth. Our installations include properly sized service entrances, distribution panels, conduit pathways, and grounding systems that facilitate equipment upgrades as charging technology advances. Whether you’re operating a commercial fleet depot or planning a public charging plaza, we build infrastructure designed to serve your needs for decades, protecting your investment while positioning your facility at the leading edge of charging technology.

Wireless EV Charging Market Explodes with 25% Annual Growth

While plug-in charging dominates today’s EV infrastructure landscape, wireless charging technology is emerging as a potentially transformative alternative. The wireless EV charging segment, currently valued at USD 10 billion, is projected to grow at a remarkable 25% compound annual growth rate, making it the fastest-growing segment within the broader EV charging infrastructure market. This explosive growth reflects technological maturation that has addressed early concerns about efficiency losses, charging speeds, and implementation costs that previously limited wireless charging to niche applications.

Recent technological advances have dramatically improved wireless charging efficiency, with modern systems achieving operational efficiency highly competitive with traditional plug-in chargers. Concerns about significant energy losses during wireless power transfer—once a major barrier to adoption—have largely been resolved through improved materials, optimized coil designs, and sophisticated power electronics that minimize losses during the electromagnetic energy transfer process. Contemporary wireless charging systems can deliver power levels ranging from 11 kW for residential applications to over 200 kW for commercial and fleet applications, making wireless charging viable for diverse use cases from overnight home charging to rapid top-ups at commercial facilities.

The convenience advantage of wireless charging cannot be overstated. Drivers simply park over a charging pad embedded in the parking surface, and charging begins automatically without any physical connection. This eliminates concerns about damaged cables, occupied charging connectors, or the minor inconvenience of plugging and unplugging—factors that may seem trivial individually but collectively impact user experience and charging accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. Wireless charging also enables dynamic charging scenarios where vehicles charge while moving, though this application remains primarily experimental with limited real-world deployment focused on public transit routes and specific commercial applications.

Major automakers are beginning to embrace wireless charging technology. Porsche announced that wireless charging will be available on the 2026 Cayenne Electric, marking a significant milestone for mainstream adoption. The system achieves 90% efficiency compared to 94% for wired charging—a minimal difference for most applications—and delivers 11 kW charging power, sufficient for overnight charging or extended parking sessions. This automotive industry endorsement signals growing confidence in wireless charging as a mature, production-ready technology rather than an experimental curiosity.

For Los Angeles property owners, wireless charging represents an opportunity to differentiate your facility with cutting-edge amenities that enhance user experience. Multifamily properties could offer wireless charging in parking garages, eliminating cable management challenges in tight parking spaces. Commercial properties could provide wireless charging at premium parking spots, attracting customers who value convenience. Fleet operations could implement wireless charging for vehicles that park in consistent locations, ensuring vehicles charge automatically during idle periods without requiring driver intervention.

While wireless charging technology is still emerging and costs remain higher than conventional plug-in equipment, Shaffer Construction is actively monitoring wireless charging developments and preparing to offer installation services as the technology matures and becomes cost-competitive for mainstream applications. We’re currently designing electrical infrastructure with sufficient capacity and appropriate conduit pathways to facilitate future wireless charging retrofits, ensuring properties we equip today can adopt wireless technology as it becomes viable. For clients interested in early wireless charging adoption, we provide consultation on technology selection, site requirements, electrical infrastructure needs, and integration with existing charging systems. As wireless charging transitions from emerging technology to mainstream solution, Shaffer Construction will be ready to deliver expert installation and integration services throughout the Los Angeles market.

Battery Swapping Gains Traction as Rapid Alternative to Conventional Charging

While most EV infrastructure development focuses on plug-in charging of increasing speed and power, an alternative approach is gaining momentum in specific markets and applications. Battery swapping technology, which allows drivers to exchange depleted battery packs for fully charged units in approximately five minutes, is emerging as a viable solution for applications where charging time represents a critical operational constraint. US startup Ample is launching battery swapping stations in Tokyo focusing on commercial vehicles, joining established players including NIO and CATL in China who have deployed thousands of battery swap stations serving passenger vehicles and commercial fleets.

The fundamental advantage of battery swapping is speed: a five-minute battery exchange is comparable to refueling a conventional vehicle and dramatically faster than even the quickest DC fast charging, which typically requires 20 to 45 minutes to achieve 80% charge. This time advantage is particularly valuable for commercial applications including taxi services, delivery fleets, and ride-sharing vehicles where vehicle utilization directly impacts revenue and downtime represents lost income. Battery swapping also enables more sophisticated battery management: removed batteries can be charged slowly during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lowest and grid demand is minimal, potentially reducing operating costs while providing valuable grid services through controlled charging schedules that help balance electricity supply and demand.

The technology faces significant challenges that have limited widespread adoption. Battery standardization represents the most fundamental obstacle: battery swapping requires interchangeability across different vehicle models, yet automakers currently design proprietary battery systems optimized for each vehicle platform. Creating industry-wide battery standards would require unprecedented cooperation among competing manufacturers, each of whom views battery technology as a competitive differentiator. The infrastructure investment required for battery swapping is also substantial: swap stations must maintain inventory of multiple fully charged battery packs, require sophisticated robotics for safe battery removal and installation, and need extensive battery storage and charging infrastructure. These requirements result in higher capital costs compared to conventional charging stations.

Despite these challenges, battery swapping is finding success in specific niches. NIO has deployed over 2,400 battery swap stations in China, primarily serving its own vehicles, demonstrating that battery swapping can work within a controlled ecosystem of compatible vehicles. The company is expanding internationally, with European deployments underway. In commercial fleet applications, where vehicles can be standardized and centrally managed, battery swapping economics become more attractive: fleet operators can maintain battery inventory sized to their specific fleet, optimize charging schedules for their operational patterns, and potentially reduce vehicle costs by separating battery ownership from vehicle ownership through battery-as-a-service business models.

For Los Angeles businesses operating commercial EV fleets, battery swapping may become increasingly relevant as the technology matures and costs decline. Fleet applications represent the most promising near-term opportunity because fleet operators can standardize vehicle specifications, control infrastructure access, and optimize operations for their specific usage patterns. Taxi companies, delivery services, ride-sharing operations, and other high-utilization commercial applications may find battery swapping economically attractive compared to the downtime associated with conventional charging.

At Shaffer Construction, we’re monitoring battery swapping developments and maintaining relationships with technology providers to ensure we can support clients interested in exploring this alternative approach. While conventional plug-in charging will remain the dominant infrastructure solution for the foreseeable future, battery swapping may emerge as a valuable complement in specific applications. Our expertise in complex electrical system design, high-power infrastructure installation, and integration of sophisticated vehicle charging technologies positions us to deliver battery swapping infrastructure should client needs and market conditions warrant. Whether your needs involve conventional Level 2 charging, DC fast charging, emerging wireless charging, or even battery swapping, Shaffer Construction brings the electrical engineering expertise and installation experience to deliver reliable, code-compliant, future-ready solutions.

Conclusion

This week’s developments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure reveal an industry in rapid transformation, grappling with significant challenges while simultaneously pursuing revolutionary innovations. The sobering ChargerHelp! reliability report demonstrates that infrastructure quality and user experience must improve substantially to meet the needs of mainstream EV adoption. California’s achievement of over 200,000 public chargers proves that aggressive infrastructure deployment is possible and sets a benchmark for other states to pursue. Siemens’ megawatt charging platform provides a glimpse into the ultra-high-power charging future that will enable EVs to match or exceed the refueling convenience of conventional vehicles. Explosive wireless charging market growth signals a potential paradigm shift in how we think about vehicle charging. Battery swapping’s emergence in commercial applications demonstrates that multiple charging approaches may coexist, each serving different needs and use cases.

For property owners, businesses, and municipalities throughout Los Angeles, these developments carry direct implications for infrastructure planning and investment decisions. The reliability crisis identified in the ChargerHelp! report underscores the critical importance of selecting quality equipment from reputable manufacturers and implementing comprehensive maintenance programs to ensure consistent performance. California’s infrastructure leadership creates both competitive pressure and market opportunity: properties without charging infrastructure risk obsolescence, while properties with well-designed, reliable charging gain competitive advantages. Emerging technologies including megawatt charging, wireless charging, and battery swapping will reshape the infrastructure landscape over the coming decade, making future-ready electrical design essential for protecting long-term investment value.

As Los Angeles continues its transition toward electric transportation—driven by California’s 2035 zero-emission vehicle mandate, expanding vehicle options, improving technology, and growing environmental awareness—the demand for charging infrastructure will only intensify. Property owners and businesses that act now to install quality charging infrastructure will establish competitive positions that strengthen as EV adoption accelerates. Those who delay risk playing catch-up in an increasingly competitive market where charging amenities transition from differentiator to baseline expectation.

Shaffer Construction, Inc. brings decades of electrical contracting expertise to every EV charging infrastructure project we undertake. Our team combines deep technical knowledge with practical installation experience, ensuring your infrastructure is designed correctly, installed to the highest standards, and supported throughout its operational life. We navigate complex California regulations, maximize available incentive opportunities, coordinate utility interconnections, manage permitting processes, and deliver turnkey installations with minimal disruption to your operations. Our installations emphasize reliability, user experience, future expandability, and long-term value—ensuring your investment serves your needs for years to come.

Whether you’re considering your first charging installation, planning to expand existing infrastructure, or exploring emerging technologies for specialized applications, Shaffer Construction is your partner in building Los Angeles’s electric future. Contact us today at 323-642-8509, email us at [hello@shaffercon.com](mailto:hello@shaffercon.com), or visit shaffercon.com to discuss your EV charging infrastructure needs. Together, we’ll create solutions that position your property for success in the electric vehicle era—one reliable, future-ready charger at a time.