Gravity Technologies, a Manhattan-based tech firm specializing in advanced electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, is on track to secure a significant contract with New York City.
However, questions have been raised regarding the company’s reliance on political lobbying and campaign donations to bypass standard competitive bidding processes. The potential deal highlights tensions between innovation, transparency, and governance in city procurement practices.
The Contract at the Center of Attention
Gravity’s EV Charging Technology
Gravity Technologies designs “smart poles” that offer ultra-fast EV charging capabilities. The company boasts chargers capable of delivering 200 miles of range in just 13 minutes, a significant upgrade from the city’s existing chargers, which can take hours to fully charge a vehicle.
- Flagship Hub: In 2023, Gravity opened a high-capacity charging station on Manhattan’s West Side, featuring 500-kilowatt chargers capable of providing 200 miles of range in five minutes.
The DCAS Connection
The NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), responsible for municipal fleet management, is reportedly working to secure Gravity’s devices. A confidential application to the Public Design Commission indicated plans to install Gravity’s fast chargers citywide, bypassing competitive bidding requirements.
- Lack of Public Bidding: DCAS has not yet issued public solicitations for EV charging equipment, raising questions about transparency.
The Role of Lobbying and Campaign Donations
Hiring Oaktree Solutions
Gravity’s efforts gained traction after hiring Oaktree Solutions, a lobbying firm founded by Frank Carone, former chief of staff to Mayor Eric Adams and a long-time ally. The move came after previous lobbying attempts with the Department of Transportation (DOT) failed.
- Oaktree’s Influence: Oaktree’s lobbying directly targeted DCAS Commissioner Louis Molina, shifting Gravity’s focus away from DOT.
Campaign Contributions
Gravity CEO Moshe Cohen hosted a fundraiser in 2021 that raised $22,850 for Adams’ campaign, positioning the company as an early supporter of the mayor.
- Cohen’s Statement: At the event, Cohen pledged support for Adams, stating, “We’re here to help you help us.”
Concerns About Competitive Bidding
Importance of Competitive Bidding
Competitive bidding is a cornerstone of municipal procurement, designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and cost efficiency.
- Objective Analysis: It evaluates vendors based on performance, cost, and reliability, avoiding the influence of political connections.
- Current Status: Despite DCAS’ claim of “exploratory work,” the lack of public bids has raised concerns about favoritism.
Potential Conflicts of Interest
Critics argue that Gravity’s hiring of Carone and campaign contributions to Adams may undermine public trust.
- Similar Cases: Other Adams-linked dealings, such as federal investigations into Saferwatch’s school technology contracts, reflect a broader pattern of lobbying and influence under scrutiny.
Benefits of Gravity’s Technology
Faster Charging for a Growing EV Fleet
Gravity’s ultra-fast chargers could significantly improve EV infrastructure for NYC’s municipal fleet and potentially reduce reliance on slower Level 2 chargers.
- DCAS’ Plans: The agency aims to install 1,776 fast chargers by 2030, with capacities between 180 and 300 kilowatts.
- Gravity’s Capabilities: The company asserts its chargers can meet or exceed these standards.
Enhanced Urban Integration
Gravity’s “smart poles” are designed to blend into urban landscapes while offering additional features like air monitoring, public Wi-Fi, and street lighting.
Next Steps and Unanswered Questions
Public Design Commission Review
DCAS has submitted an application to the Public Design Commission for approval of Gravity’s chargers. The commission has yet to take a formal position on the matter.
Outstanding Issues
- Timeline for Bidding: DCAS has indicated plans to issue a fast-charger contract for public bidding but has not provided a clear timeline.
- Federal Funding: Previous delays in Gravity’s plans were linked to the availability of federal funding for EV infrastructure.
Gravity Technologies’ potential deal with NYC highlights the intersection of innovation, politics, and procurement. While the company’s cutting-edge technology offers a promising upgrade to the city’s EV infrastructure, the lack of competitive bidding raises concerns about transparency and fairness. For NYC to balance its commitment to innovation with public accountability, ensuring a transparent and competitive process is crucial.
