Airbnb is collaborating with ChargePoint to expand access to electric vehicle (EV) chargers for vacation home renters. This partnership aims to make it easier and less expensive for Airbnb hosts to install and maintain EV chargers, potentially increasing the attractiveness of their properties to some travelers.
“We are thrilled to join forces with ChargePoint to help Hosts meet growing demand for electric vehicle chargers from guests,” said Ameet Konkar, Airbnb’s director of sustainability. “By making it more affordable for hosts to install EV chargers, we are empowering them to take more sustainable actions and appeal to guests who are interested in this amenity.”
Through this initiative, Airbnb hosts can purchase and install EV chargers at a discounted rate. While the typical cost for home chargers hovers around $1,300, ChargePoint will offer them to Airbnb hosts starting at $399. Additionally, the first 1,000 hosts to take advantage of this offer will receive an extra $200 off from Airbnb.
“With Airbnb, we are enabling more EV charging for drivers where they need it and helping Airbnb hosts appeal to more travelers by delivering a frictionless charging experience for their guests,” said Rick Wilmer, CEO at ChargePoint. “Through this partnership, we have created an innovative model to deliver integrated charging solutions and services.”
For hosts, installing an EV charger could translate to more bookings. This convenience is becoming increasingly desirable as the U.S. faces a significant disparity between the number of EVs and available chargers, with only one charger for every 26 EVs. Reflecting this trend, Airbnb has noted an 80% increase in the use of their EV charging filter by customers searching for vacation rentals last year.
Properties equipped with EV chargers not only have the potential to attract a wider demographic renters, but according to Airbnb, also tend to secure longer stays and generate higher income compared to those without such amenities. To facilitate the installation process, a dedicated online store has been established, providing hosts with the necessary resources and support.