Repair Shops Add Fast EV Charging at No Upfront Cost
Owners of independent tire and repair shops can offer Level 3 charging and share in the revenue without paying for the equipment.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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1stMILE launched an electric vehicle charging program for tire dealers and independent automotive repair shops, announced November 2, 2026. The program provides turnkey Level 3 DC fast-charging installations that participating shops can offer to EV drivers.
Why it matters
As EV adoption grows, drivers need fast, reliable charging, and shops that offer it can attract customers who need a trusted place to service their vehicles. The program gives independent shops a way to add charging without paying for the equipment up front.
The program covers charger equipment, permitting, installation and ongoing maintenance, so participating shops pay nothing upfront. Shops receive a share of charging revenue, and that share rises as charger utilization grows.
The players
1stMILE
A provider of automotive aftermarket financial services whose integrated offerings are available at more than 17,000 automotive locations nationwide.
The details
1stMILE covers the cost of the charging equipment, permitting, installation and maintenance, so the shop's role is hosting the charger. In exchange, the shop receives a share of the revenue from charging sessions, with the percentage increasing as more drivers use the charger. A typical session brings an EV battery to 80% in roughly 20 to 40 minutes, which gives drivers time to wait for other services. Shops can use that window to promote tire replacements, brake inspections, cabin air filter changes and battery checks.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: 1stMILE announced the EV charging program.
November 2026: 1stMILE will showcase the program at booth #24713 in Central Hall at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
The Home Front
Level 3 DC fast-charging equipment has typically been installed at dedicated charging stations, and this program moves that equipment into the repair shops and tire dealers where drivers already go for maintenance. It extends the fast-charging network into everyday automotive service locations.
If you own an EV, check whether a nearby independent tire or repair shop offers Level 3 charging before you plan a longer trip. Ask shops about charging availability when booking service so you can combine a fast charge with a tire or brake check.
The takeaway
Fast charging is moving into everyday auto service shops, which can make a routine maintenance visit double as a charging stop. When booking service, ask whether the shop offers EV charging and what the typical charge time is.
Further reading
For more on how charging access is changing vehicle ownership, see our Electric Vehicles coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EVinfo.
Live Poll
Would you be more likely to get car maintenance at a shop that offers EV charging?
