You’re likely noticing more electric vehicles (EVs) on the road and charging stations in shopping areas and other public locations. Several factors, such as new vehicle options, lower prices, additional charging stations, and financial incentives, are driving the increasing popularity of EVs.
According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), EVs accounted for 7.6% of all sales in 2023, up from 5.9% in 2022. That market share is even larger when factoring in hybrid vehicles.
While EVs may not work for everyone’s daily driving requirements, which depend on commute times, public charging availability and additional factors, EVs can provide many benefits, such as lower operating costs and less maintenance.
If you’re considering switching to an EV, Jay County REMC is here to help. As your trusted local energy partner, we can help you make informed decisions about home charging options and factors to help you decide if an EV works for your typical driving needs.
TYPES OF EVS
There are three common types of EVs. All-electric vehicles, also known as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), are powered solely by a large battery. Because BEVs are powered by a rechargeable battery and do not use gasoline, they produce zero emissions. On average, BEVs can run on a full battery for 110 to 300 miles.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are powered by a large battery, an electric motor, and a gas-powered engine. PHEVs recharge battery power from regenerative braking and can also be plugged into a standard outlet. Depending on the model, they can run on full battery power alone for 15 to 60 miles.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) use an electric motor to assist gas-powered engines. Similar to PHEVs, HEVs can also recharge their battery power from regenerative braking, but the power comes from the gas engine, and they do not plug into an electrical outlet.
HOME CHARGING OPTIONS
Most new BEVs and PHEVs include a Level 1 charging unit (110-volt-compatible), which can be plugged into any standard household electrical outlet. A Level 1 charger typically provides two to five miles of range per hour of charging, which may work for those with shorter daily commutes.
For lengthier daily drive times, Level 2 chargers can be installed for faster charging at 10 to 30 miles of range per hour. A Level 2 charger uses 240-volt service, which may require electrical upgrades conducted by a licensed electrician.
JAY COUNTY REMC CAN HELP
If you own an EV or plan to purchase one in the future, we encourage you to contact Jay County REMC.
As more consumers switch to EVs, it’s important for the co-op to understand the local community’s EV charging needs.
We currently have a Chevy Bolt on site and offer test drives to our members upon request. This allows members to get a feel for an electric vehicle and ask questions without strings attached.
If you’re considering switching to an EV, call us at 260-726-7121 for more information about charging options and requirements, energy-saving tips for the road ahead, and to set up your test drive today.
