SAN FRANCISCO – For the electric vehicle (EV) market to grow, the charging infrastructure will need to be an attractive proposition to consumers – both is cost and accessibility. While a variety of models have become available to make charging easier and cheaper for EV owners, a new startup is proposing another means for users to obtain free charging by creating highly visible stations that can host advertising and sponsorship.

The Volta recharge terminals, currently available at 110 sites in Hawaii, California and Phoenix, Arizona, offer EV drivers free charging, with the associated costs covered through corporate sponsorship. Most of the existing stations are located at shopping centers and are sponsored by partners including Macy’s and Whole Foods Market, as well as a number of national real estate companies.

Volta sees its service as benefitting drivers, retailers and advertisers, who all stand to benefit from the presence of an on-site charging station. Volta recently secured more than $7 million in funding, enabling plans to quickly expand their operation.