Many cities, such as San Francisco and New York, are passing policies to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. However, one of the biggest challenges to the adoption of EVs is the lack of fast charging stations. Revel, a company formally known for its fleet of rentable electric mopeds, is currently focused on transforming the EV charging landscape in urban areas. In this episode, Chuck Templeton sits down with Revel’s co-founder and CEO, Frank Reig, to explore the company's evolution from electric mopeds to a pioneering urban EV rideshare and fast-charging network, and Revel’s strategy to tackle the chicken-and-egg conundrum of EV adoption by simultaneously expanding its electric rideshare fleet and charging infrastructure. Frank speaks to the complexities of scaling energy infrastructure in cities, the importance of strategic alliances, especially with utilities and policymakers, the need to have a thorough understanding of the market opportunity, and what the future holds for the company.

Key Topics:

1. Adapting to Industry Trends: Frank speaks to how Revel’s pivot from electric mopeds to a comprehensive EV rideshare and charging network has enabled them to align with the growing demand for clean energy technologies.
2. Seeding a Two-Sided Marketplace: To address the chicken-and-egg problem of electric vehicle adoption, Revel implemented a dual strategy of simultaneously expanding its vehicle fleet and charging infrastructure. Frank shares how this approach can help accelerate adoption rates for EV charging.
3. Scaling Energy Infrastructure in Urban Areas: The conversation highlights Revel’s approach to scaling infrastructure despite the inherent challenges to expanding the energy grid. Frank discusses these obstacles and Revel’s approach to tackling them.
4. Strategic Partnerships as Growth Catalysts: One key method Revel has used to navigate the complexities of urban energy infrastructure development is forging strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders such as policymakers and utilities. These alliances have been instrumental in expanding their fast-charging network and growing their market presence.
5. Strategic Market Positioning: Revel has taken a very targeted approach to market expansion, focusing on high-density regions with greater demand for clean transportation options. By having a nuanced understanding of the market opportunity in different geographies, Frank and the Revel team have been able to focus resources in high-potential locations.

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