Summary
– EVs come with a Level 1 charger for convenient home charging
– Level 1 charging is slow, taking over 14 hours to gain 6% battery
– For faster charging, invest in a Level 2 charger, but installation can be costly
– Charging at home is cheaper, but public charging stations offer faster charging speeds
– For those with short commutes, Level 1 charging at home is sufficient to meet daily needs
Article
Electric vehicles are gaining popularity, but there are still misconceptions surrounding them, such as the need for special equipment to charge them at home. In reality, many EVs come with a Level 1 charger that can plug into a standard household outlet. However, not all vehicles come with a charger, as the author discovered when test driving a Lexus TX550H+ PHEV. Fortunately, they were able to test drive a Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan that did come with a charger, allowing them to experience the convenience of at-home charging.
One of the main incentives for the author to drive an all-electric vehicle is the potential cost savings on gasoline, especially with rising gas prices. However, they were surprised by the charging time required for the Hyundai Ioniq 6 when using a Level 1 charger. After 14 hours and 33 minutes of charging, the vehicle only increased its battery level from 36% to 42%, adding roughly 27 miles of range. This slower charging speed may not be ideal for those who need to charge their vehicle quickly.
Despite the longer charging time, the author found that Level 1 charging was sufficient for their daily commute, which involves driving to the train station and back, totaling a little over 3 miles each way. Charging the vehicle overnight using a Level 1 charger provided enough range for their needs and saved on electricity costs compared to charging during peak hours. However, they acknowledge that longer commutes may require a faster charging option, such as a Level 2 charger, which can charge the Ioniq 6 from 0% to 80% in 6 hours and 55 minutes.
For those seeking faster charge times at home, investing in a Level 2 charger may be necessary, though there are additional costs involved in installing the proper hardware. Alternatively, more EV charging stations are becoming available, offering faster charging options for drivers on the go. Charging the Ioniq 6 at a 50kW charger can provide an 80% charge in 73 minutes, while a 350kW charger could achieve the same in just 18 minutes. The author advises saving station charging for emergencies or long-distance trips, as home charging is often more cost-effective.
In conclusion, while Level 1 charging at home may be convenient for some, it may not be ideal for those with longer commutes or those who require faster charging times. Investing in a Level 2 charger or utilizing public EV charging stations can provide quicker charging options, though at an additional cost. Ultimately, the choice of charging method will depend on individual needs and priorities, whether it be cost savings, convenience, or efficiency. As EV technology continues to evolve, charging infrastructure is likely to improve, offering more options for drivers looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Read the full article here
