Electric vehicles (EV) are continuing to gain popularity, appealing to an increasingly large audience because of their environmentally conscious design and more affordable charging options compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. It’s estimated that EVs will make up roughly 25 to 30 percent of all new vehicles in 2030 and 45 to 50 percent by 2035.
Though the statistics show that EVs have grown in popularity, most people still have questions concerning the specific details of making the switch from gasoline-powered vehicles, such as EV charging and prices. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of five commonly asked EV questions and provided detailed answers to shed light on this growing market.
1. What are the environmental benefits of EVs?
One of the greatest appeals of electric vehicles is their reduced negative impact on the environment. Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants, which in turn keeps our air cleaner. Just one electric vehicles on the road can save an average of 1.5 million grams of CO2 in just over a year. The U.S. Department of Energy also points out that EVs play an important role in reducing the amount of imported petroleum.
2. Where do you charge an EV?
EVs can be charged either at home or at public charging stations, which are growing in popularity. Public charging stations, such as those offered by Blink Charging, can be found near shopping centers, in parking lots and more commonly in urban areas.
3. How long does it take to charge an EV?
The speed of the charge depends most notably on the level of the charger being used, with Level 2 chargers being faster than Level 1. Each EV has a limit to the speed of the kilowatts able to be delivered to the car as well, with the average EV being able to take 36 kilowatts an hour and, therefore, reach a full battery from empty in about 5.5 hours.
4. How long does a full charge last?
There is a large range of distances EVs can travel before needing to be recharged, from 100 to about 350 miles on just one charge. Innovations in EV technology are extending this number every day, with EVs in the recent past only being able to reach about 50 miles on one charge.
5. Is it expensive to charge an EV?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average rate of a public DC charging unit is about $0.35 per minute, or $21 per hour.
Rates charged at public EV charging stations will be higher than electricity at home due to private businesses being charged much higher rates for electricity. Some states also base pricing off the amount of electricity consumed while others charge based on time, depending on local legislation on electricity.
Becoming a member of an EV charging station business, such as Blink Charging, will also mean lower prices when using their stations.
EVs present enormous benefits to not only their owners but the environment as well, making them an appealing option for investment. More public EV charging stations are continuing to be installed each year as well, providing an increasing amount of convenient charging options.
Brian Scharles, Sr.
TAPCO | Director of ITS Engineering & Service
An industry veteran, Brian holds three transportation technology patents and has managed ITS and signal system designs, installation and maintenance for 25 years. He has experience integrating communication systems for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation fiber optic system starting in 1990 that are still in operation today.
Brian is a member of multiple industry organizations, including the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) WI and International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA), and has won many awards.