While you may think that electric vehicles (EVs) are the latest thing, they’ve actually been around for nearly 200 years, with the first all electric car being produced in the 1830’s. However, what is new is that the electric car is now competing with traditional fossil-fuel cars in the marketplace, and gaining share every day. Recent advancements in battery and charging technology have made the electric car a viable alternative for their gasoline counterparts.
Today’s best EVs are practical, easy to drive, fairly inexpensive to maintain, and offer the technology drivers want. But for those considering an electric vehicle, there are some distinct difference s in operation which must be taken into account. While a traditional car can be gassed up and ready to go in just a few minutes, electric cars take time to recharge in between trips. If you are utilizing for short trips, or know that there is a charging station at each of your destinations, an EV could be a great fit for your lifestyle.
How to Charge Your Electric Car
There are two basic categories when choosing how to charge your new electric car. Level 1 charging utilizes the charger included with the car, plugged into a standard 120V outlet in your garage or on the side of your home. (Be sure to check with an electrician if your electrical panel can handle this load, or needs an upgrade.) One average, charging your car in this manner will take 20 hours to sufficiently charge for a 125 mile trip. Depending on your daily mileage, this may not be an adequate solution, as you may need to wait nearly a full day in between trips using this method.
If you purchase an electric car, one of the best additional investments you can make is to install a charging station at your home. Level 2 charging refers to using a charging station sold separately from the car. This method of charging can power your car between 3 and 7 times faster than using a standard 120v outlet, but typically requires professional installation. A home charging station will save you time and money in the long run, as you can fully charge your vehicle every night without having to pay charging station fees.
Because most Sarasota area garages were not constructed with the proper power capacity required to support a charging station, calling an electrician to rewire your garage and properly install the station is the best course of action. Level 2 chargers are typically plugged into a 240V outlet, which allows for the more efficient charging. But the first step in installing a charger station is determining which type or model is best for your situation. There are several options on the market, and you decision will ultimately come down to the cost/benefit analysis, as well as compatibility with your new car.
If you have purchased an electric car – or are going to do so in the near future – call Promise Electric right away. Our technicians will help you to install a charging station in your garage or next to your home, allowing you to get the most out of our new EV as soon as you bring it home. Have further questions? Call for a consultation today.
