FDOT argues the private sector is already building out the state's fast-charging infrastructure, so the state could redirect those funds elsewhere.
The Florida Department of Transportation wants to redirect $198 million in federal funds awarded for fast electric vehicle chargers under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program to building landing pads for aerial taxis instead, reports Darius Popa in The Next Web.
"Each vertiport would cost roughly six million dollars, and the proposed locations include luxury apartment buildings, golf courses, military bases, and airports." However, eVTOLs have not been approved by the FAA for commercial service anywhere in the United States.
FDOT says the private sector has sufficiently built out the state's EV charging network, which stands at 452 fast charging stations. If the state surpasses a federally mandated threshold, it is allowed to redirect the funds, Popa notes. "But NEVI was designed to fill gaps the private sector overlooks, particularly in rural areas where charging stations may not turn quick profits." Florida has used almost none of its NEVI funds, even though the state is second in the nation in EV registrations.
Read the full story: Florida wants to spend $198 million in federal EV charger money on air taxi landing pads
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