When you are investigating the purchase of an electric vehicle, either pure electric or plug-in hybrid, it is essential to know that you can do your charging at home. And in most cases, your new vehicle will include a Level 1 charging station. These units fit into your home’s standard 110v outlet and are perfect for the low mileage driver. However, if you make more than one trip out each day or drive an extended distance, having a Level 2 charging station installed will better meet your needs.
Level 1 VS. Level 2
The Level 1 charging process is slower due to the lower voltage of the unit. In general, you can estimate that a Level 1 charger will add about 2 to 5 miles per hour to your vehicle’s range. In contrast, a Level 2 charger will increase your range by 10 to 60 miles per hour of charging. The most significant variable in the Level 2 charging capability is the vehicle that you select.
Installing A Level 2 Charger
Level 2 chargers require 240v power. But the good news is that most homes have this available to provide service to appliances like a clothes dryer or electric range. The expense to extend that service to your garage will vary. Contact EarlyBird Electric at 612-236-9052 to make an appointment for an evaluation of your St. Paul home for a complete price quote for the project. The cost of the charging equipment will run you anywhere from $200 to $1,000.
The Cost Of Electricity To Charge A Car
There are a few variables to consider when estimating what you will be spending on electricity. The first information that you will need to determine is the average cost per kilowatt-hour in your state. It is a good round number that will provide a reasonable estimate. To be more precise, check with your electricity provider for specific rates for the time that you would be charging your car. Then using the information from vehicle manufacturers for charging time, you can do the math for a daily charge or charging a few times a week if you will not be driving daily.
Paying For Electricity Compared To Gasoline
Again, the vehicle you select will play a significant role in determining the charging cost. But to look at national averages calculated by General Motors, expect to pay between $300 and $400 per year to charge your electric vehicle. And that is not taking into account any special incentives for electric vehicle owners or discounted time of use plans. Check the U. S. Department Of Energy site to see if you will qualify for any incentive plans. By comparison, AAA estimates that the average driver spends about $3,000 on fuel each year. That puts the cost of electricity for an EV at around 10% of the price of gasoline.
For more information about installing an EV charging station in your Rochester home, call 612-236-9052 to schedule an appointment with a EarlyBird Electric pro.
