If you’re thinking of buying an electric car (EV) One important aspect to know is the cost to charge the battery. The charging process for EV batteries differs from filling the gas tank of a conventional vehicle. This article will look at the anticipated cost of charging an electric vehicle, as well as how this compares with Internal combustion engines (ICE) as well as gas-powered cars. In addition, we’ll look at the key factors that impact the cost per mile of electric car charging vs gas.
Comparing EVs to ICE vehicles
Both electric vehicles as well as ICE vehicles can take you there However, they differ in a few important aspects. The main difference lies in the fuel source. Electric vehicles are powered by electricity, whereas ICE vehicles are powered by gasoline, which is burnt internally. We’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of electric vehicles versus gas-powered vehicles, and also a review of the most popular brands’ initial costs.
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The advantages of electric vehicles on ICE automobiles include
- Improved efficiency of energy use A greater amount of energy that is used to power an EV can be converted into usable energy.
- Reduction in carbon dioxide emissions EVs don’t emit carbon dioxide into the air and are therefore more eco-sustainable, particularly when they are powered by renewable energy sources.
- Low maintenance expenses: As EVs don’t have the internal combustion engine and maintenance costs are typically less.
- Protection from rising gas prices Since gas prices continue to increase the owners of electric vehicles aren’t affected by the price changes. However, electric rates could be subject to change. On average the average American consumes around $1,900 per year on gas, and an electric vehicle costs about $674 a year to charge.
In addition, a car that is electric can help you save time in your commute, when you are able to use carpools or high occupancy vehicles (HOV) lanes that many states have for electric vehicles.
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Things to consider regarding EVs
Despite the benefits of EVs, they have some negatives in comparison to ICE vehicles:
- A limited travel range: Electric vehicles generally require more frequent charging than gas tanks that require refills in ICE vehicles.
- More time “refueling” time: Charging an electric vehicle takes more time than filling up a gasoline tank, particularly with the Level 1- or 2 charging options. But possessing an EV charger in your home could allow for a more convenient daily commute.
- More expensive upfront costs: While the initial price for purchasing an EV might be higher than the initial price, however, the overall price of the ownership throughout its lifespan could be reduced due to lower operating costs.
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Cost of Charging an EV
The cost of charging for an EV is contingent on a variety of variables. On average, the price per mile of the majority of EV manufacturers is about 5 cents, as per information provided by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). At the time of writing the average cost for electricity for electric vehicles in the U.S. is around 14.96 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh).
It’s important to know that the power required for charging batteries (in the form of kWh) is higher than the size of the battery because certain energy is lost in charge. These figures are based on estimations that are conservative that are provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
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Electric vehicles against. ICE vehicles: All-around Cost Comparison
The Department of Energy (DOE) conducted an analysis in June 2021 that compared the long-term cost of EVs as well as ICE vehicles. The study revealed that an EV costs around 6.1 cents per mile while an ICE vehicle will cost around 10.1 cents per mile. The difference of only four cents for each mile might appear small, but it is significant over the course of the life of the vehicle. For example, if you drive 200,000 miles using an electric vehicle could save you $8,000 and the savings can reach $12,000 when you drive 300,000 miles. In addition, the purchase of an EV might offer financial incentives.
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Factors Impacting EV Charging Costs at Home
The ability to charge an electric vehicle at home is typically less expensive than refueling an automobile that runs on gas, however, various factors affect the cost:
The electricity source you use The kind of electricity plan you choose to use will have a significant impact on your monthly cost. Alternatives like community solar or the community option aggregation (CCA) as well as green power plan (GPP) could provide savings when compared to traditional energy providers.
- The size of the battery in your vehicle is important. Larger batteries may be more expensive to charge, however, they can also provide longer ranges of travel between charges.
- The kind and type of EV charger you choose to use The efficiency of charging varies based on the charger model. Level 3 chargers usually have more performance than Level 1, Level 2, or Level 1 chargers.
- The cost of electricity in your area: Prices for electricity differ across the nation So where you live will impact your charges. Extreme weather conditions can also cause higher costs for charging due to the need for more energy to regulate temperature.
- Charge time The rates for electricity can differ at different times of the day. Furthermore, some utilities might use time-of-use rates that can impact the cost of charging.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the EV Charging
How much will my electric bill rise by using an electric vehicle?
In the event of an average charge at 5 cents/mile and annual miles of 13 476 (1,123 miles per month), The charging of an electric vehicle exclusively at home could raise your electricity bills by about $56 a month. The option of charging at work or by using public charging stations can reduce the price, and having solar panels in your home can enable charging for free.
What is the time it will need to be charged for an electric vehicle?
The charging time will vary based on the charging rate and the range of the EV, and the amount of charge required. It could take anywhere from 15-20 minutes when using a Level 3 charger, or as long as 30 to 40 hours when using a Charger Level 1. (standard outlets).
What kinds of EV chargers are available?
The three different levels for EV chargers are Level 1 (slowest) Level 2 (faster) or Level 3, (fastest). Owners of EVs can install their own at-home chargers or utilize public chargers that are available in a variety of places