The Future of EV Charging in Los Angeles: Breakthrough Technologies, Expanded Access, and Smarter Infrastructure

The Future of EV Charging: Innovations, Accessibility, and Infrastructure

Introduction

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more widespread across Los Angeles and the United States, the need for advanced and accessible charging infrastructure grows ever more critical. The landscape of EV charging is evolving rapidly, with cutting-edge innovations shaping how, where, and how quickly vehicles are charged. At Shaffer Construction, Inc., a Los Angeles-based electrical and general contractor specializing in EV charger installation and infrastructure, we’re keeping a close eye on the latest trends, technological leaps, and programs designed to improve EV charging for everyone. This article brings together the latest developments, making sense of what’s new and what’s next for EV owners, property managers, and city planners alike.

Next-Generation EV Charging: Faster and More Powerful

One of the most exciting breakthroughs in EV charging comes from ABB, a global leader in electrification and power technology. ABB has introduced the MCS1200 Megawatt Charging System (MCS) at the ACT Expo, a powerhouse charger delivering up to 1.2 megawatts (MW) of electricity. To put this in perspective, most home chargers provide 7-11 kilowatts (kW), and today’s fastest DC fast chargers offer around 350 kW—making ABB’s new system a true game-changer for electric semi-trucks and commercial vehicles.

This unprecedented power level drastically reduces charging times for large EVs. For operators of electric trucks and fleet managers, the MCS1200 enables quick turnaround on longer routes, maximizing uptime and making electric transportation more viable in sectors such as shipping, logistics, and transit. The modular design of ABB’s system allows for scalability—smaller fleets can start small and expand as their EV adoption grows.

Implications for Los Angeles and Southern California

In regions like Los Angeles, where commercial corridors and distribution centers are vital, faster charging for trucks can reduce emissions and noise, especially in urban-industrial zones. Installing these high-capacity chargers requires skilled electrical and infrastructure work, highlighting the importance of experienced contractors to ensure safety, reliability, and code compliance.

Public and Private Partnerships: Expanding Access to Underserved Communities

While fast charging technology races ahead, ensuring everyone has access to EVs—and the ability to charge them affordably—is a top priority. In California, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is launching initiatives to help low-income households overcome barriers to EV adoption. According to KSBW coverage, these programs include financial incentives for purchasing EVs, discounted charging rates during off-peak hours, and grants to install home charging infrastructure.

Such initiatives not only empower residents who might otherwise be priced out of clean transportation but also contribute to the state’s broader goals for air quality and greenhouse gas reduction. For multifamily property owners and affordable housing developers in Los Angeles, taking advantage of these programs—and incorporating charging capabilities—can enhance property values and tenant satisfaction while helping meet local sustainability mandates.

The Role of Electrical Contractors

Implementing incentive-driven projects often involves navigating utility requirements, securing permits, and ensuring that systems meet all regulatory standards. Professional installers like Shaffer Construction can streamline this process—from application to installation—maximizing incentives while delivering a robust, future-proofed charging solution.

Innovations in Wireless Charging: The Plug-Free Promise

A truly revolutionary step forward in user convenience for EV charging is wireless, or “inductive,” charging systems. One New York-based startup, HEVO, is developing certified wireless EV charging technology, now being evaluated by several global automakers. Instead of plugging in, drivers can simply park their EV over a charging pad—much like placing a smartphone on a wireless charger.

The implications for urban charging are immense. Wireless charging pads could be embedded in the pavement at parking spaces, making it possible to recharge while parked at a mall, workplace, or even curbside on city streets. This could be especially useful for drivers who lack dedicated off-street parking, a significant barrier to EV adoption in cities with dense housing and limited private garages.

As this technology matures, it could greatly simplify the daily routines of EV users by making charging automatic, touchless, and virtually invisible. For building owners and municipalities, wireless systems may reduce wear and tear (no cables or connectors to replace) and create a safer environment with fewer trip hazards and electrical contacts exposed to the elements.

Further reading on emerging wireless charging is available from Redwood News, highlighting how “pizza box”-sized charging pads are being tested for city use.

Challenges in Public Charging: Urban Access and Costs

Even as technology improves, there remain challenges for urban EV owners—particularly those without access to private driveways or garages. Several cities and regions worldwide are launching pilot programs to test on-street charging solutions. These typically involve installing curbside chargers where residents park overnight, or retrofitting existing street infrastructure (like lamp posts) to double as EV charging points.

Pilot programs like these offer lessons in network planning, equipment durability, and user behavior. They are essential to making EV ownership possible in older neighborhoods with limited off-street parking. The success of these efforts depends heavily on expert installation, careful power management, and regular maintenance to avoid downtime and ensure safety.

Addressing Cost Concerns

Another major consideration is the cost of public charging—sometimes significantly higher than charging at home, particularly if “fast charging” rates are in effect. A recent survey cited by Stoke Nub News shows that some cities experience up to 18% higher-than-normal rates at public chargers, making affordability as much a concern as accessibility. To keep costs manageable, building out a broad and competitive charging infrastructure is key, helping to avoid monopolies and promote price transparency.

The Essential Role of Professional EV Charger Installation

Whether harnessing the power of megawatt charging for fleets, supporting incentive programs for homes and apartments, or piloting on-street and wireless solutions, the backbone of reliable EV charging still depends on skilled electrical and general contractors. Installations must comply with local ordinances, national electrical codes, utility requirements, and the evolving landscape of charging network interoperability.

Safety First: High-voltage systems, especially those reaching hundreds of kilowatts or more, require careful engineering to prevent hazards and future-proof against grid and vehicle upgrades.
Future Readiness: EV charging equipment installed today should be scalable and adaptable for new technologies, such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications, dynamic load management, and wireless charging integration.
Permits and Rebates: Navigating city permitting and unlocking available rebates and incentives can be complex without professional guidance.
Maintenance: Regular testing and preventive maintenance ensures uptime for all users, whether in a single-family home or a busy commercial lot.

At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we offer comprehensive EV charger installation and infrastructure services throughout Los Angeles and Southern California. From concept and planning to construction and long-term support, our team specializes in delivering safe, efficient, and code-compliant charging solutions for both residential and commercial clients.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Electrified Road Ahead

The future of EV charging in Los Angeles and beyond is bright, enabled by rapid innovations in technology, broader access through public programs, and creative solutions for challenging urban environments. As automakers, utilities, and cities continue to invest in infrastructure and new charging models, the support of expert contractors becomes ever more crucial.

Whether you’re a property owner planning to install chargers for tenants, a fleet manager ready to electrify your vehicles, or a municipality exploring curbside charging pilots, reliable and forward-looking installation is essential. Shaffer Construction, Inc. is ready to help you chart your path to the electric future.

Contact us at: hello@shaffercon.com | 323-642-8509 | www.shaffercon.com
325 N Larchmont Blvd. #202, Los Angeles, CA 90004