Revolution on the Streets: Michigan’s First Lamppost EV Charger Is Live—and 11 More Are Coming Soon
Voltpost transforms ordinary streetlights into EV chargers, launching Michigan’s first in Ypsilanti—Detroit and beyond are next.
- 1st lamppost EV charger in Michigan launched by Voltpost
- 4 EVs can charge simultaneously per lamppost
- 12+ Michigan sites expected by end of 2025
- 60 min average install time per charger
Imagine cruising through a Michigan city and spotting a gleaming electric vehicle plugged into… a streetlamp. It’s not a futuristic fantasy—thanks to Voltpost, Michigan’s first lamppost EV charger is now officially online at the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti Township. The move signals a bold leap toward accessible and affordable urban charging that could electrify city streets across the globe.
Voltpost, a four-year-old New York startup, has rolled out a modular Level 2 charger that fits onto existing lampposts in under an hour. This approach outmaneuvers traditional infrastructure headaches and high costs. Forget the construction crews and jackhammers—Michigan’s new era of EV charging just plugs right into what’s already standing.
Detroit Will Soon Be Packed With Lamppost Chargers
This inaugural charger is just the spark. Voltpost plans to light up 11 additional Detroit-area sites through 2025, multiplying access where people park—near homes, shops, and universities. The company’s Oak Park, Illinois, debut also proves this isn’t just a Michigan moment. It’s national.
Not only can a single lamppost charger power up to four EVs at once, but it’ll also turn a regular night out or workday into a chance to refuel, quietly and conveniently.
How Does a Lamppost Charger Work?
The secret? Voltpost’s design adds retractable charging cables and a brainy communication system (powered by AT&T wireless data). This lets cities remotely monitor charger health and usage in real time.
No more guessing if a charger’s out of order—municipalities get live updates, ensuring drivers aren’t left stranded. Since it’s a Level 2 charger, don’t expect the same jolt as a highway rest-stop DC fast charger, but for city street parking, the speed is just right.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal for Michigan?
For decades, Detroit has been the heart of American auto innovation. Now, with Voltpost’s scalable solution, Michigan could redefine how cities everywhere think about public charging. It’s all about making EVs feasible for everyone—not just those with private garages.
Municipalities save money by skipping costly upgrades, and residents living in apartments or older neighborhoods finally get a fair shot at charging close to home. The goal? More electric vehicles, less range anxiety, and cleaner air.
Q&A: What Drivers Want to Know
Where can I use a lamppost charger in Michigan now?
Right now, the first charger is at the American Center for Mobility’s campus in Ypsilanti Township. More installations throughout Detroit are scheduled in the coming months.
How fast can I charge my EV?
Expect typical Level 2 speeds—perfect for several hours of parking, whether during work, shopping, or a night out. It’s not as fast as DC charging, but ideal for city life.
Is this good for the environment?
Absolutely. By leveraging existing infrastructure, fewer resources are consumed, and expanding EV access means fewer emissions long-term.
Will more cities get these chargers?
Voltpost is expanding rapidly, with recent installations in Illinois and more major metros on deck for 2025. As adoption ramps up, streetlamp chargers could soon brighten up neighborhoods nationwide.
How to Spot—and Use—These Game-Changers
1. Look for upgraded streetlight posts with charging cables and clear Voltpost branding.
2. Download the recommended charging app or scan the on-site QR code to pay and activate charging.
3. Plug in! Each station can charge up to four vehicles at once.
Ready for the Future? Here’s What to Do Next
Don’t get left in the dust—get plugged into Michigan’s EV revolution today!
- Watch local news for new Voltpost installations in your area
- Contact your city council to advocate for lamppost chargers where you park
- Learn about other EV innovations at NREL and U.S. Department of Energy
- Share this story with your community and spark the change
Michigan is paving the way—will your streetlight be next?
