Kroger, America’s largest grocery chain, already has 74 ECOtality Blink charging points installed in Oregon, Washington and Texas, and will invest a further $1.5bn (£980,0000) to fund the latest additions.  Through its ongoing EV Project, ECOtality is aiming to establish a US-wide network for recharging electric vehicles, with Phoenix, San Diego and Los Angeles seen as key target markets for the Kroger partnership.

Keith Dailey, Kroger spokesperson, commented: ‘As plug-in electric and hybrid cars are becoming more popular with our customers, we are pleased to offer the convenience of electric vehicle charging stations at more of our stores in markets with the highest demand. Kroger is excited to contribute to the growth of this national network.’