Blink Charging and Universal Media Unveil “EV Totems,” Digital Advertising Billboards

Blink Charging, a leading U.S.-based provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, has announced a new collaboration with Universal Media to launch the EV Totem, a charging unit that integrates EV charging stations with dual-sided digital advertising displays.

The EV Totem combines functionality with visibility. Each unit features two 55-inch high-definition screens mounted seven feet above ground level, ensuring the displays remain visible even when vehicles occupy the charging bays. This design allows brands to reach audiences in high-traffic EV charging locations while offering real-time, location-based ad targeting and integrated analytics. The result is a new way for advertisers and property owners to monetize charging infrastructure while enhancing the customer experience.

“The EV Totem is designed to transform EV charging into a smarter, connected platform — one that delivers value for drivers while unlocking new opportunities for brands, property partners, and communities,” said Todd Cohen, Co-founder and CEO of Universal Media.

The move also positions Blink within the rapidly expanding Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising market, which Straits Research projects will reach $84.03 billion by 2033. With EV charging stations increasingly located in shopping centers, restaurants, and other consumer destinations, the opportunity for targeted, high-impact advertising is growing rapidly.

“Blink is proud to collaborate with Universal Media to bring this future-focused innovation to life,” said Mike Battaglia, President and CEO of Blink Charging. 

“Together, we’re transforming the EV charging experience to a dynamic media and mobility platform — bringing relevant content to drivers while they charge.”

This innovation comes at a time of unprecedented momentum in the EV sector. The global electric vehicle market, valued at $1.33 trillion in 2024, is projected to surge to $6.52 trillion by 2030, according to Grand View Research. To support this growth, the EV charging infrastructure market itself is expected to reach $125.39 billion by 2030.

By merging EV charging with advanced advertising capabilities, Blink Charging and Universal Media are not only expanding charging access but also redefining what an EV charging station can be, a hub for both mobility and media.

EVinfo.net’s Take

We commend Blink and Universal Media for this amazing breakthrough. The displays are similar to Volta’s, which EVinfo.net reported on in 2022. Blink’s displays are much higher up and much more visible.

Volta Charging, an electric vehicle (EV) charging network, is known for providing free Level 2 charging stations, primarily funded by advertising displayed on the chargers. Volta’s network, acquired by Shell in 2023, was integrated into the Shell Recharge Network. However, Shell recently announced the closure of the Volta brand and its charging sites, with a focus on expanding Shell-branded charging stations.

Advertising at charging stations is a great idea. Dwell time is the time that EV drivers spend while waiting to charge their EVs. This has opened up an impressive number of business opportunities, capturing the business of the EV drivers while they wait. Nearby businesses have enjoyed great results by being close by to EV charging stations. Some of the businesses even offer free charging, to attract the EV drivers. Many retailers, restaurants, and more have partnered with EV charging companies to offer EV charging at their locations. One example is the deal Mercedes made with Starbucks in July 2024.

As mass adoption approaches in the US, Blink is poised to enjoy great success from their Totem venture.

My Own Blink Experience Was Great

I tried a new Blink Charging station in my neighborhood recently. The experience was very smooth and I had no problems doing the charging session.

 I stopped at a public Blink station in San Diego County, California, where EVinfo.net is based.I used a Blink Series 8 dual-port ISO model. This model features an integrated credit card reader, is configurable up to 80A via a built-in derating switch, and can be connected via Wi-Fi, ethernet, or cellular. This charger is ISO 15118 hardware-ready, and features a modern and compact design with a terminal block. This installation featured an optional cable management system that keeps the cables clean and tidy for drivers.

See more about the Blink Series 8 ISO on Blink’s website:

https://blinkcharging.com/blog/introducing-the-blink-series-8-iso-ev-charging-station

I’ve had the great pleasure of working with the fantastic Blink marketing team for some time now. Felicitas Massa, Corporate Communications Manager at Blink is super-helpful and friendly.

Paul Williams, President at MediaLine Communications, handles Blink’s PR. Paul is among the best in the business, very knowledgeable and a delight to work with.

MediaLine is a well-respected, highly effective strategic communications agency that maximizes brand impact for a variety of industries. Contact MediaLine today for your PR and communications needs!

See MediaLine’s site.

I didn’t have any payment problems using the Blink charger, but like most EV drivers, I’ve had a variety of payment issues in the past using EV charging.