BP Pulse Opens Nation’s Largest EV Charging Gigahub in Inglewood: 48 Ultrafast Chargers Near LAX

Inglewood solidified its position at the forefront of sustainable transportation infrastructure this summer with the opening of BP Pulse’s largest U.S. electric vehicle charging hub, featuring 48 ultrafast charging stations at 9150 Aviation Boulevard, just two miles from Los Angeles International Airport, serving ride-hail drivers, local residents, and rental car customers with cutting-edge charging technology.

The facility, which BP Pulse celebrates as its first “Gigahub” in the United States, offers a mix of 150kW and 400kW charging options with both CCS and NACS plug types, accommodating the full range of electric vehicles currently on American roads and future models from manufacturers transitioning to standardized charging ports.

With 48 DC charging bays, the Inglewood Gigahub represents a significant escalation in EV infrastructure capacity compared to typical charging stations that feature only a handful of chargers. The scale addresses a critical pain point for electric vehicle drivers who often face wait times at overcrowded charging locations, particularly near high-traffic areas like airports.

BP Pulse funded the facility partially through a $2 million grant from the California Energy Commission (CEC), demonstrating the state’s commitment to accelerating EV adoption by supporting large-scale charging infrastructure in strategic locations. The project aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals and its phased transition toward zero-emission vehicle requirements.

For Inglewood residents, the Gigahub provides convenient access to ultrafast charging that can replenish most electric vehicles to 80% capacity in 20 to 30 minutes with the 400kW chargers, dramatically faster than home charging or standard public charging stations. This accessibility makes EV ownership more practical for residents without home charging capabilities, a significant barrier for apartment dwellers and renters.

The facility includes amenities designed for extended visits, featuring a comfortable lounge, vending machines, clean restrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi, transforming the charging experience from a utilitarian necessity into a more pleasant break during travel or daily routines. These amenities particularly benefit ride-hail and taxi drivers who spend significant time charging between shifts.

Located on Aviation Boulevard near LAX, the Gigahub serves a strategic position for multiple user groups. Ride-hail drivers working LAX pickups and dropoffs can quickly recharge between fares, rental car companies like Hertz can service their expanding electric fleets, and travelers renting EVs can confidently return vehicles with adequate charge without anxiety about finding available stations.

The partnership between BP Pulse and Hertz extends beyond the Inglewood location, with additional Gigahubs planned for development near other major U.S. airports. This collaboration reflects the rental car industry’s aggressive pivot toward electrification, with Hertz committing to substantial EV fleet expansion in recent years despite some market challenges.

BP Pulse first announced its Gigahub concept in October 2022, positioning these large-scale charging hubs as solutions specifically designed for commercial fleet operators and high-utilization drivers who need reliable, fast charging with minimal downtime. The Inglewood facility validates this model and provides a template for future expansions.

For local businesses and economic development, the Gigahub represents new infrastructure investment in Inglewood and potential foot traffic to nearby commercial establishments. Drivers waiting 20-30 minutes for charging may patronize local restaurants, coffee shops, or retail stores within walking distance, creating spillover economic benefits beyond the charging facility itself.

The facility’s capacity to serve 48 vehicles simultaneously addresses “charging anxiety” concerns that remain one of the most significant barriers to EV adoption. Prospective electric vehicle buyers often worry about availability and wait times at public chargers, and facilities like the Inglewood Gigahub directly alleviate these concerns through sheer scale.

Environmental implications for Inglewood include reduced local air pollution as more vehicles transition to electric power, though the net environmental benefit depends on the electricity grid’s energy sources. California’s increasing renewable energy portfolio means EVs charged at the Gigahub increasingly draw power from solar, wind, and other clean sources rather than fossil fuels.

The 400kW ultrafast chargers represent the latest generation of EV charging technology, significantly faster than the 50kW chargers that were standard just a few years ago. This technological progression mirrors the rapid advancement in battery capacity and vehicle range, making long-distance EV travel increasingly practical.

For ride-hail drivers working in Inglewood and the greater Los Angeles area, reliable fast charging directly impacts earning potential. Reduced charging time means more hours available for fare-generating work, improving the economic viability of operating electric vehicles in the ride-hail industry where vehicle costs and downtime directly affect take-home income.

The facility’s proximity to LAX also positions it strategically for the airport’s own sustainability initiatives and potential future electric shuttle and ground transportation programs. As airports nationwide transition toward zero-emission ground operations, facilities like the Inglewood Gigahub provide essential infrastructure for that transition.

BP Pulse’s investment in Inglewood reflects broader corporate strategies among traditional energy companies to diversify into electric vehicle charging as transportation electrification accelerates. These infrastructure investments represent billions of dollars flowing into charging networks as companies position themselves for a post-gasoline future.

The Gigahub opened to the public in July 2025, and operational data from the first months will provide valuable insights into utilization patterns, user demographics, and whether the facility’s capacity adequately serves demand or if additional expansion might be warranted as EV adoption continues climbing in Southern California.

For Inglewood, the facility enhances the city’s profile as a forward-looking community embracing sustainable technologies alongside its dramatic transformation into a major sports and entertainment destination, demonstrating that infrastructure investment extends beyond stadiums and arenas to include environmental sustainability and transportation innovation.

This story draws on information from BP Pulse, Electrek, NBC Los Angeles, CSP Daily News, iHeartMedia LA stations, and the California Energy Commission.