NDOT's Electric Vehicle Plan
Reliable Access for EV Travel and Commerce
By expanding Nebraska's EV charging network, the state is making long-distance travel practical and predictable for EV drivers while giving businesses the tools to move goods and serve customers more efficiently. These investments not only strengthen tourism and commerce but also support community vitality and create opportunities for Nebraska’s economy.
As more Nebraskans adopt electric vehicles, gas tax revenue — the primary funding source for roads and bridges — will decline. NDOT is monitoring this trend and exploring funding alternatives to ensure the state’s transportation network remains safe, well-maintained, and reliable for all users.
Goals for Nebraska’s EV Future
As Nebraska builds out its EV network, NDOT is focused on goals that go beyond charging stations to strengthen the entire transportation system:
Asset Preservation – Keep Nebraska’s roadways, bridges, and charging infrastructure in good repair by setting clear criteria to evaluate and maintain charging equipment. NDOT will require NEVI recipients to submit an asset maintenance and operations plan.
Mobility for People and Freight – Ensure that charging locations are placed strategically to connect both urban and rural communities, support long-distance travel along Alternative Fuel Corridors, and encourage freight and transit electrification.
Secure and Resilient Infrastructure – Plan charging locations with Nebraska’s key corridors, like I-80, in mind, while also safeguarding against cyber threats and ensuring the grid can reliably support EV demand.
Safety First – Design charging stations with driver safety in mind, including lighting, parking access, and protection from severe weather.
Supporting Nebraska’s Economy – Invest in EV infrastructure that benefits local businesses, creates industry opportunities, and supports economic vitality across the state.
EV Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Nebraska is also preparing first responders for the transition to electric vehicles. Through the Traffic Incident Management (TIM) program, training is being updated to include EV-specific procedures and safety considerations. This ensures that Nebraska’s workforce and emergency responders are equipped to support today’s drivers, keeping roads safe and the transportation network operating efficiently.
NDOT is also focused on making charging locations safe and resilient—whether through proper lighting and shelter, reliable grid connections, or safeguards against cyber threats—so that Nebraska’s workforce, emergency responders, and all road users can depend on the system.
Find EV Charging Station Locations
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides an interactive, filterable map showing the locations of electric vehicle charging stations nationwide. This information is being used alongside other data to evaluate current demand and identify opportunities for expanding EV charging infrastructure.
Each station shown on the map includes at least one charging port, and many have multiple connectors. The term EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) simply refers to the charging equipment used at a standard EV station.
- Alternative Fuels Data Center
- Joint Office of Energy and Transportation
- EV Route Planner
- EV Tax Incentives
Nebraska's NEVI Formula Program plan
The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program is a nationwide effort that provides federal funding to each state to build a network of 500,000 publicly accessible EV chargers by 2030 along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. Nebraska’s (NEVI) Formula Program plan was approved by the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in September 2022. NDOT has submitted annual updates to show progress and adjust to evolving federal guidance.
In 2023, a Request for Information (RFI) gathered stakeholder feedback to help shape Nebraska’s competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) for NEVI-funded charging stations. An official RFP will be issued once federal guidance and funding are finalized.
Nebraska is receiving about $30 million in NEVI funds, and the 2025 plan focuses on electrifying the I-80 corridor and other key routes to achieve “fully built-out” status by the end of the year. The first phase will install roughly 30–35 DC Fast Charging sites along I-80 and other designated Alternative Fuel Corridors, each with a minimum of four chargers — for a total of approximately 120–140 chargers — to support long-distance travel. As additional funding becomes available, Level 2 chargers may be added in lower-density areas where installation costs are lower and projected demand is lighter.
The NEVI program is coordinated by the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (JOET), created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). JOET brings together the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide technical guidance, set consistent standards, and ensure that federal investments result in a reliable, user-friendly national EV charging network. Charging stations must meet federal requirements for spacing, reliability, and accessibility. By combining Nebraska’s locally focused plan with JOET’s nationwide coordination, the program aims to create a charging network that supports all travelers, long-distance commerce, and the growth of EV adoption across the country.
QUICK LINKS
- Nebraska's 2025 NEVI Formula Program plan
- NEVI Formula Program Interim Final Guidance
- Stakeholder Meeting - 2/13/23
- NEVI Formula Program Q & A
- NEVI Final Rule Regulations establishing minimum standards for federally funded EV charging projects.
- FHWA NEVI Fact Sheet Overview of financial, structural, and eligibility elements of the program.
Understanding EV Technology
Advances in EV battery technology are improving charge speed, vehicle range, and overall reliability. These improvements directly influence the types of chargers deployed and how efficiently they can serve drivers. The state’s EV network relies on two primary types of chargers:
Level 2 chargers typically provide a full charge in 4–10 hours, making them ideal for overnight charging, workplaces, or locations where vehicles remain parked for longer periods. They are generally more cost-effective to install, making them practical for rural areas with lower traffic volumes.
DC Fast Chargers can recharge most EVs in under an hour, supporting long-distance travel and commercial fleets that require quick turnaround times. While fast chargers reduce charging time and extend travel range, they are more expensive to install and require higher electrical capacity. Not all EV models are compatible, so careful planning for charger type and placement is essential.
Charging Types: AC vs. DC
AC (Alternating Current) Charging
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This is the type of electricity that comes from the power grid and your home outlets.
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AC chargers send electricity to your car’s onboard charger, which then converts it into DC to charge the battery.
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Level 1 and Level 2 chargers use AC.
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Level 1 – Standard household outlet, very slow (full charge can take 8–20 hours).
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Level 2 – Faster, typically installed at homes, workplaces, or public locations (full charge in 4–10 hours).
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DC (Direct Current) Charging
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DC chargers bypass the car’s onboard charger and send electricity directly to the battery.
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This is what allows DC Fast Chargers to recharge most EVs in under an hour.
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DC fast charging is usually only available at public charging stations along highways or major corridors.
Two Main Charging Connectors
A charging connector is the plug on your electric vehicle (EV) and at the charging station that allows electricity to flow from the charger into your car’s battery. Think of it like the plug you use for your phone or laptop — it’s the interface that makes charging possible. The two main types of connectors used in the U.S.:
Combined Charging System (CCS)
- Most widely used standard.
- Most non-Tesla EVs come with CCS ports. No adapter is needed to use CCS stations that match the port.
- Supports both AC (slow) and DC (fast) charging.
- The connector has two parts: the main part for AC charging, plus extra pins for DC fast charging.
- Rapidly becoming the dominant electric EV charging connector in North America.
- A connector built into the car that was originally Tesla-only but was standardized in 2023 so all automakers and charging networks can use it safely and consistently.
- Supports both AC (slow) and DC (fast) charging.
- NACs allow chargers to serve a broader range of EVs, critical for enabling chargers to reach more users efficiently and cost-effectively.
Adapters are available to let a car with one connector plug into a station built for the other standard or vice versa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not through NDOT. However, rebates and tax incentives may be available at the federal, state, or utility level. You can find current programs at fueleconomy.gov and by checking with your local utility provider.
NEVI Formula Program funds can only be used for costs directly tied to the acquisition, installation, operation, and maintenance of publicly accessible EV charging stations (or those serving authorized motor vehicle operators from multiple companies). Charging stations must be located along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors.
Eligible costs include:
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Purchase and installation of EV charging equipment
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Site preparation, construction, and electrical upgrades needed for chargers
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Utility connections and power distribution equipment
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On-site hardware, networking, and communications equipment
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Operations, maintenance, and repair of charging stations
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Signage, data sharing, and cybersecurity measures required by federal standard
An Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) is a network of highways designated by federal law to support alternative fuel stations, like EV chargers, at regular intervals along major routes. These corridors make it easier for drivers to find reliable fueling and charging options when traveling long distances.
AFC is a federal statutory term and the official language agencies must use when planning projects and applying for funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) works with state and local officials, federal partners, and industry stakeholders to review nominations and make AFC designations.
Nebraska will receive $30.2 million in National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Funds to support new EV charging stations. These federal funds, authorized through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), are specifically designated for EV infrastructure along Nebraska’s highways.
Uncertainty surrounds EV growth in the coming years. National EV adoption rates have dipped slightly—from 10% in 2023 to 9% in 2024—and the Midwest is not experiencing the same rapid short-term growth seen in coastal areas. NDOT is focused on steady, long-term progress, preparing infrastructure to meet future demand. Planning now ensures Nebraska secures federal funds for charging stations while they are available.
Yes. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Nebraska has 310 Level 2 and DC fast charging stations, with new stations being added regularly. Find locations at https://afdc.energy.gov/stations.
If you charge an electric vehicle (EV) at home, the electricity it uses will increase your bill, similar to running any other appliance. For people who don’t own EVs, it’s not yet clear whether the growing number of EVs will have a noticeable effect on electricity availability or rates for your home or business. Nebraska’s public power utilities are actively planning for EV growth to understand and manage how the added electricity demand might affect the grid.
As of June 2025, the Department of Water and Environmental Energy (DWEE) reported approximately 9,490 electric vehicles (EVs) in Nebraska and 42,951 electric/gasoline hybrid vehicles. For the most current and detailed information on EV registrations in Nebraska, visit DWEE's official website.
NEVI funds are awarded to states based on approval of their submitted plans. NDOT uses a competitive RFP process to allocate these funds to projects that meet federal requirements.
Since more than 80% of EV charging occurs at home, states collect less revenue at the gas pump—funds that are traditionally used for road maintenance and improvements. To help offset this shortfall, Nebraska currently charges EV owners an annual registration fee of $150, while plug-in hybrid drivers pay $75. These fees ensure that all drivers contribute to the upkeep of the state’s transportation infrastructure, regardless of their vehicle’s power source.
The NEVI program focuses on funding electric vehicle charging infrastructure for light-duty vehicles and does not currently provide funding for electric buses or public transit systems. However, if smaller electric buses can utilize standard Level 2 or DC fast chargers, they may be compatible with existing charging infrastructure, potentially reducing the need for specialized charging stations.
Nebraska is making progress in integrating electric buses into its public transit systems.
- In 2020, StarTran, the public transit service in Lincoln, replaced six aging diesel buses with electric models, bringing their total electric vehicles to 10. As of 2023, StarTran's fleet includes 10 electric buses, 39 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, and 16 diesel buses.
- Omaha's Metro Transit introduced its first electric buses in 2022. These 40-foot battery-electric buses are part of a pilot program to explore zero-emission public transportation options.
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Thanks to funding provided by the EPA Clean School Bus Program, Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) purchased three electric mini buses (26-passenger capacity), which went into operation for the 2025 school year. These buses use a standard Level 2 charger.
Other Nebraska school districts have also received EPA Clean School Bus Program funding. Omaha Public Schools (OPS) was awarded a rebate for 10 electric buses, and Winnebago Public Schools received a rebate for three buses. In addition, a third-party grant submission for Highland was also awarded funding.