You probably have a few questions if you’ve just bought an electric car. One is, “What is EV charging?” Like any chargeable device or electronic, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles need an EV charger to maintain a full battery. Charging can be done at home with a standard 220V cord, wall box, or public EV chargers. The latter is faster but can be expensive.
How It Works
EV Charging charges an electric vehicle’s battery using EV charging equipment, also known as EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment). It uses electricity to power the EV’s batteries and can be done at home, in a public charger, or even at work.
The most common way to charge an EV is at a Level 2 public charging station, which can power a car for several hours. It is a great way to top up your EV before heading out on the road, but if you need a faster recharge, consider a Level 3 DC fast charger.
You can find these EV charging stations on highways, hotels, airports, shopping centers, and some reputable industry experts like Delta Electronics.
Most charging stations charge by kilowatt-hours, a standard pricing model in the United States. You can expect to pay about 16 cents per kWh at most public charging stations, though this depends on the EV type you drive.
You can find public EV charging stations using smartphone apps or websites; many will let you know whether or not the plugs are in use. You can save time and aggravation by avoiding looking for the charging station yourself.
What You’ll Need
Electric vehicles (EVs) offer many advantages over gasoline-powered cars, including a lower maintenance cost and a superior driving experience. However, one of the most confusing aspects of getting an EV is how to charge it. Depending on your vehicle, you may have a choice of charging equipment to install in your home or garage. There are two main types: Level 1 and Level 2.
Level 1 EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) operates on 120 volts, like a standard household outlet. It provides about 5 miles of range per hour of charging.
For a faster charging session, consider installing a Level 2 EVSE. These units operate on 240 volts, typically providing about 15 to 40 miles of range per hour of charging.
You can also find intelligent chargers with Wi-Fi connectivity that allow you to monitor and control your charging through an app. These are more expensive than non-smart models, but they can be beneficial for tracking your energy costs, managing your charging schedule, and making payments.
There are also fast DC fast charging stations available at public locations that can top up your EV battery in 30 minutes or less. These are usually a higher price than Level 2 and Level 3 chargers, but they can be helpful if you live in an area with frequent heavy traffic.
Where to Charge
When it comes to charging EVs, there are multiple ways to do so. One way is to find a public charging station to plug in for a quick charge. They’re usually found in parking garages, workplaces and commercial lots and are available for free or a small fee.
Another option is installing a level 2 charging unit in your home. These come in various styles and can be purchased online from home-improvement stores. They typically cost around $500 to $700, and you’ll need an electrician to install them.
The good news is that many cities and states are developing EV charging infrastructure, so there are plenty of places where you can charge up. These include shopping malls, airports, grocery stores and even some fast-food chains. It’s essential to remember that not all EVs are compatible with all charging stations. Some models have a unique plug that may not be compatible with all the chargers on the market.
Costs
The cost to charge your electric vehicle can vary from state to state and even within the same state. The amount you’ll pay for electricity depends on your location, the type of charger, and your local energy provider’s rates.
Using an EV during off-peak hours can be a great way to save money, as many utility providers offer lower prices at certain times. It is beneficial for drivers who want to minimize their carbon footprint.
Public charging stations are becoming more common, so they’re also an excellent option to help you charge your vehicle. They typically come with dedicated apps that make it easy to use and pay for your charges.
In addition, several incentives can reduce your overall EV charging costs. These include federal, state, and local programs that provide monetary and tax credits.
Aside from these programs, it’s worth considering how you drive and what kind of vehicle you own before deciding on EV charging. EVs are cheaper than gas-powered vehicles and offer several benefits, including low fuel costs, quiet engines, and no tailpipe emissions.
Comments are closed.