Electric vehicles are all the rage right now. Advances in technology are giving these no-emission vehicles more range, speed and horsepower than ever before. Drivers no longer have to sacrifice get-up-and-go for fuel-efficiency. You can even add aftermarket upgrades for amazing car audio and more. But before you buy an electric vehicle, don’t forget to ask one important question: where will you charge it? To get the most bang for your buck and the fastest charging, your home may need electrical system upgrades or special equipment. Here’s what you need to know.
Charging with an Outlet
According to Energy.gov, you can charge an electric vehicle with a normal, three-prong household electrical outlet. But before you plug in, you need to check it out first. That outlet needs to be on a dedicated branch circuit that doesn’t supply anything else, even lights. If you’re not sure whether the outlets in your garage have what it takes, call an electrician to find out. While charging this way doesn’t involve extra equipment, it is pretty slow, adding between two and five miles of driving range per hour of charging time. If you have a lengthy daily commute, you might want to upgrade.
Installing a Charging Station
Level 2 charging requires a 240-volt AC plug, plus special charging equipment on a dedicated 20-100-amp electrical circuit. This is the same level of electrical service used to run major appliances like clothes dryers, but you’re going to need a professional to install the outlet and the charging station. Fortunately, many areas offer rebates for installing charging stations in your home. And the fast charging is worth it, adding 10-60 miles or range per hour of charging time. We love seeing more drivers switching to electric vehicles, and we’re excited to see how the technology will improve in the upcoming years. As always, Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers are here to customize your vehicle, no matter what fuel it uses. Just contact your local Tint World® today to find out more.
