Have EVs caught your attention recently? If you’re researching the Chevy Bolt, Tesla Model 3 or another EV model entirely you may have a few questions. Let us help you with a few answers to three of the top questions asked by most prospective EV owners.
Q1: Electric or hybrid. Which way should I go?There are pros and cons to each – so start with evaluating which model would be best for your lifestyle. Understanding that there is a difference between the two vehicle types is the first step, especially since the terms “electric” and “hybrid” are sometimes used interchangeably. When it comes to the differences, each has a fundamentally different powertrain. An electric car uses electric motors to power the wheels, with no added gasoline or diesel engine, while a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid is fitted with both a battery and electric motor. Insider tip: you’ll often hear battery electric vehicles referred to as BEVs or all-electric vehicles (this means they are completely powered by batteries and do not have gasoline engines).
Q2: What do I need to know about the battery?
EV batteries have come a long way thanks to technological advancements in the last few years. The most important thing to note is that batteries come in different sizes, but don’t let that scare you. Battery size refers to how powerful a battery is, not its actual physical dimensions. That said, there is no standard proportion connecting battery size and range. The car itself and your driving will affect battery range – so consider your lifestyle, daily commute, available charging options, etc. to see what size works best for you. Insider tip: Be aware that battery power is described in Kilowatt hours or kWh. This means the higher the kWh number, the farther you can drive on a full charge.
Q3: How will I charge my electric car at home?
In today’s EV market – you have flexible options when it comes to charging your vehicle. To charge your EV at home, you’ll need the proper outlet for your recharging needs and an EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) or charging station. Don’t fret – basic charging is through a 120 volt outlet, which is a standard household size. This is also known as Level 1 charging, meaning it takes about 8 hours to recharge an EV to 40 miles of range. Need something quicker? Level 2 charging pushes 240 volts to your vehicle – so recharging will be 3-5x faster. Every hour of Level 2 charging adds about 10 to 20 miles of range.
Hope this helps you make that important decision. Stay tuned, our next post will provide insights into a few more popular questions that may help you along the way. In the meantime, to learn more about charging options available for your new EV, check out how you can #LevelUp in the comfort of your home. Or follow us on Facebook and Twitter to let us know which EV you’re most looking forward to purchasing!