LAS VEGAS (AP) — The first in a series of electric car charging stations in the rural stretch between Las Vegas and Reno is up and running.

Officials from the Nevada Governor's Office of Energy and NV Energy told lawmakers Monday that a station at the Eddie World gas station and convenience story in Beatty is now working. Officials are still negotiating partnerships to get charging stations in Fallon, Tonopah and Hawthorne.

Gov. Brian Sandoval announced the so-called "Electric Highway" last summer. The project aims to help drivers complete the 450-mile journey in their short-range electric cars.

He said drivers who stop in small towns and explore while their cars charge would also generate business for rural economies.

Money for the project is coming from NV Energy and Nevada's renewable energy tax abatements.