Pittsburgh, a city with a rich industrial past and innovation-driven future, has faced a constant battle with poor air quality since the 1800s. Allegheny County consistently ranks among the worst in the nation for air pollution, with over 1.2 million residents at risk from its health effects. To combat this pressing issue, Pittsburgh has set ambitious sustainability goals, including a 50% reduction in transportation-related emissions by 2030.
A key player in tackling this challenge is WHC Worldwide, the largest taxi operator in the United States. With a corporate commitment to sustainability, WHC decided that the fastest way to make an impact in Pittsburgh is through fleet electrification—switching out gasoline-powered taxis, shuttle buses, and vans to electric vehicles (EVs). To help with the transition, WHC partnered with Inspiration Mobility, the industry’s first eFMC (EV-first Fleet Management Company). Inspiration guided WHC in the process, leveraging proprietary analytical tools, and delivered a complete solution of both vehicles and charging infrastructure.
The Fleet Charging Gap
WHC’s partnership with Inspiration made it easy to identify and finance the right EVs but charging them required a unique, strategic approach. Unlike other businesses that rely on overnight home or depot charging, taxi or rideshare fleets require consistent, high-speed charging that is both cost-effective and readily accessible. Pittsburgh – and many other major metropolitan areas – lack robust, business-oriented charging infrastructure, making it difficult for these types of fleets to operate efficiently.
It’s no surprise that this charging infrastructure hurdle is where many businesses struggle the most. Inspiration designed the PowerUp Point as a solution to combat the risk and challenge of fleet EV charging. As a dedicated solution for commercial fleets, PowerUp Point was built to support WHC’s charging needs while also being a scalable option for other Pittsburgh-area businesses looking to go electric. PowerUp Point addresses the needs of commercial vehicles’ higher utilization rates and tighter turnaround times while providing affordable payment options that work with the daily, weekly, and monthly needs of different types of businesses.
A Charging Solution for Today and Tomorrow
Fast, reliable, and affordable charging is only part of the equation. The demands of commercial fleets are more stringent than what most consumer-level charging stations can support. Inspiration and WHC strategically positioned the Pittsburgh PowerUp Point to serve hi
gh-traffic areas, with features that ensure efficiency, security, and ease of use for businesses:
- Six fast-charging stalls that can accommodate larger commercial vehicles
- Secure and well-lit with 24/7 access
- Northside, downtown Pittsburgh location with interstate access
- Competitive charging rates with flexible payment options
- Smart energy management to optimize power distribution and reduce grid impact
For fleets considering the transition to EVs, PowerUp Point eliminates the risk and upfront capital required to build their own charging infrastructure. Instead, businesses can take advantage of an established, cost-effective charging network that ensures their EVs remain operational without disruption.
Real-World Benefits for Businesses and the Community
More than a charging station, the Pittsburgh PowerUp Point is a catalyst for economic and environmental progress in Pittsburgh. By providing a centralized, affordable charging solution, more fleets can make a seamless, low-risk transition to EVs while reaping sustainability benefits and significant cost savings. Fleets using PowerUp Point in their transition to EVs can expect:
- Lower operational expenses due to reduced fueling costs
- Increased vehicle uptime with reliable fast-charging access
- Reduced maintenance costs compared to gasoline-powered vehicles
Beyond the direct benefits to fleets, PowerUp Point plays a crucial role in Pittsburgh’s broader sustainability goals. As the city pushes to cut transportation-related emissions, PUP provides businesses with an easy way to comply. Additionally, PowerUp Point helps businesses operating diesel vehicles to adhere with Act 124, a mandate which prevents vehicle idling past five minutes per hour period. By offering a ready-made charging solution, diesel vehicles can be swapped out for more energy-efficient EVs that also have a lower total cost of ownership.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Electric Fleet Ecosystem
In the coming years, Pittsburgh has the potential to become a leader in fleet electrification, setting an example for other cities facing similar air quality and emissions challenges. The combination of visionary policy goals, corporate sustainability commitments, and innovative solutions like PowerUp Point ensures that Pittsburgh is not only reducing emissions but paving the way for a more sustainable, cost-efficient future.
The Pittsburgh PowerUp Point is just the beginning. Inspiration and WHC have already set their sights on expanding the charging network, with multiple sites planned in other cities for 2025. As more fleets recognize the financial and operational benefits of electrification, the demand for scalable charging solutions will only grow.
The Pittsburgh PowerUp Point is located at 1825 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Contact an Inspiration energy expert to get started.