Summary
- First-time EV owners often struggle with finding ways to charge their vehicles
- Installing a Level 2 charger at home is a popular choice for many EV owners
- Public EV charging infrastructure is improving, but finding a fast and operational charger requires research and preparation
- Many EVs come with built-in features to help owners find nearby chargers and plan trips with charging stops
- PlugShare is a popular app for finding EV chargers, providing real-time data on stall availability and allowing users to plan trips with charging stops
Article
Finding an EV charger with the vehicle
When it comes to finding an EV charger, car manufacturers have anticipated the need for EV owners to easily locate charging stations. Most new EVs come equipped with basic functionality to search for nearby chargers and even navigate to them. Some vehicles, like the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5, go beyond basic capabilities by automatically preconditioning the battery for optimal charging speed when heading to a charger. GM EVs with Google built-in have integrated their charging status with Google Maps navigation, making it easy for owners to plan charging stops. Tesla owners have it even easier, as the on-board navigation system automatically includes charges on the Tesla Supercharger network along major highways.
The Best Apps for Finding an EV Charger
For most EV owners, the best starting point for finding an EV charger is the PlugShare app. This app combines nearly every proprietary network into one database, allowing users to easily search for chargers based on various filters such as charging speed, nearby amenities, and plug types. PlugShare also provides real-time data on stall availability and allows users to add helpful context about the charger’s functionality. Another useful app is ChargeHub, which provides a similar service but with a slightly less feature-rich interface. Additionally, proprietary apps for charging networks can be helpful for quickly finding a charger that fits your needs.
Utilizing Proprietary Charging Apps
In some cases, using proprietary charging apps may be the most efficient way to find an EV charger. For example, owners of Hyundai and Kia EVs with complimentary charging plans from Electrify America may find Electrify America’s app to be the most convenient option. This app provides real-time availability data and can easily send directions to Google Maps or Apple Maps with a click. If Electrify America does not have a viable charging option, users can expand their search by utilizing other charging apps to find suitable chargers.
The Growing Importance of EV Charging Infrastructure
While EV charging infrastructure is improving, finding an operational, available, and fast EV charger still requires more prep and research than refueling a traditional combustion vehicle. The number of public EV charging stalls in the U.S. continues to grow, currently standing at around 200,000. However, the availability and efficiency of EV chargers can vary significantly, making it essential for EV owners to plan their charging stops in advance. Public charging will always be a part of an EV owner’s journey, even for those who install a Level 2 charger at home.
Planning Trips with Charging Stops
One of the key challenges for first-time EV owners is planning trips with charging stops. While most owners will rely on a combination of their vehicle’s built-in functions and smartphone apps like PlugShare, proprietary network apps, such as Electrify America, can also play a crucial role in locating fast chargers for quick recharging on the go. By strategically planning charging stops with the help of these apps, EV owners can ensure a smooth and seamless driving experience while minimizing range anxiety and maximizing the efficiency of their EV’s battery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding an EV charger as a first-time EV owner can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and resources, it can become a seamless part of your driving routine. By utilizing a combination of your EV’s built-in functions, smartphone apps like PlugShare, and proprietary network apps like Electrify America, you can easily locate and navigate to fast chargers on the go. As EV charging infrastructure continues to improve and expand, the process of finding an EV charger will only become more convenient and efficient, ultimately making the transition to electric vehicles a viable and sustainable option for drivers everywhere.
Read the full article here