The key to making an EV more usable is to have places to charge it. Studies have shown the vast majority of charging for EVs is done at home. This is primarily because home charging is convenient and often more cost-effective compared to public charging stations. Electrify America has introduced a new home charger that is available on Amazon. This charger is a Level 2 EVSE, 240V, 32A charger designed for all US EVs. The charger comes with a 24-foot long cable, providing ample length to reach your vehicle from a variety of installation points.
Advantages of Level 2 Charging
An L2 charger will allow the EV owner to recharge their vehicles much faster compared to a standard Level 1 charger. Level 1 chargers typically use a 120V outlet and can take up to 20 hours to fully charge an EV, depending on the battery size. In contrast, Level 2 chargers use a 240V outlet and can significantly reduce charging time. For instance, the Electrify America Level 2 charger offers up to 7.6kW of charging power, which can translate to much shorter charging times.
Faster charging is as important as a long drive range for many EV owners. The ability to quickly recharge an EV can make electric vehicles more practical for daily use, especially for those who have long commutes or need to use their vehicle multiple times a day. With a Level 2 charger, you can add substantial range to your EV in a short amount of time, making it easier to manage your driving needs without worrying about running out of battery.
Performance and Cost Considerations
Electrify America says that for some vehicles, the Level 2 charger can provide an additional 25 miles of driving range per hour of charging. This is a significant improvement over Level 1 chargers, which typically add only about 4-5 miles of range per hour. This increased efficiency can be particularly beneficial for households with multiple EVs or for those who frequently drive long distances.
The charger sells for $499, which is a competitive price point for a Level 2 home charger. However, it’s important to note that there will be associated installation costs for the charger. Installing a Level 2 charger usually requires a dedicated 240V circuit, which may necessitate electrical upgrades to your home. These installation costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of the installation and local labor rates. It’s advisable to get a few quotes from licensed electricians to understand the total cost involved.
In addition to the upfront costs, it’s also worth considering the long-term savings. Charging at home is generally cheaper than using public charging stations, especially if you can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment in a Level 2 charger.
Moreover, having a home charger can increase the convenience and reliability of owning an EV. You won’t have to rely on the availability of public charging stations, which can sometimes be occupied or out of service. This added convenience can make the overall experience of owning an EV more enjoyable and stress-free.
The Electrify America Level 2 home charger offers a compelling option for EV owners looking to enhance their charging capabilities. With faster charging times, a reasonable price point, and the convenience of home charging, it can make owning an EV more practical and enjoyable. While there are installation costs to consider, the long-term benefits and savings can make it a worthwhile investment for many EV owners.
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