In a major move to expand electric vehicle charging access for travelers, Hilton and Tesla have announced a collaboration to bring thousands of EV charging stations to Hilton hotels across North America. The companies are planning to install Tesla’s Universal Wall Connectors at up to 2,000 Hilton properties in the United States, Canada, and Mexico over the next two years.
With each participating hotel expected to host at least six chargers, the initiative could ultimately create more than 20,000 new charging ports available to Hilton guests driving electric vehicles. This network will effectively make Hilton hotels a go-to lodging destination for EV owners needing to charge up while traveling. It also underscores Hilton’s sustainability commitments and desire to provide eco-friendly amenities to guests.
Tesla’s Universal Wall Connectors are designed to charge any North American EV model, not just Teslas. So regardless of what car brand guests may drive, they’ll have peace of mind knowing they can conveniently plug in overnight during their Hilton hotel stay. The chargers will begin rolling out at select Hilton locations starting in early 2024, with plans to scale up installation throughout that year and the next rapidly.
Hilton has a massive geographic footprint throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico, making the hotel chain well-positioned to create a far-reaching EV charging network. With hotels strategically situated along major interstate highways and urban centers, Hilton can provide charging access at critical junctions for long-distance EV travelers. The scale of this initiative reflects the rising demand for EV charging availability from Hilton guests.
In fact, Hilton reports that searches for hotels with EV charging on their website have climbed dramatically in 2022. As EV adoption accelerates, offering charging capability gives Hilton a competitive edge in attracting eco-minded travelers. The collaboration with Tesla allows Hilton to tap into proven EV charging technology and infrastructure to roll out reliable charging stations quickly and efficiently.
For Tesla, partnering with the largest hotel chain in North America provides a tremendous opportunity to expand its charging network into new locations. With drivers relying on regular charging to complete long trips, placing chargers at convenient overnight lodging spots allows Tesla to supplement its existing network of Supercharger stations along highways.
The Hilton-Tesla initiative also strongly supports Hilton’s broader commitment to sustainable hospitality under its Travel with Purpose program. Providing EV charging dovetails with the company’s goals to lower its carbon footprint, combat climate change, reduce energy waste, and promote environmentally responsible travel. As more travelers opt for electric vehicles, Hilton is responding proactively by making EV charging a standard amenity at its hotels.
