The latest news on ev charging stations.
What You Need to Know About EV DC Fast Charger Costs
As electric vehicles (EV’s) continue to become more popular, the need for DC fast charging stations is rapidly increasing. Many car dealerships, fleet operators, commercial and industrial business owners, including hotels and retail malls are choosing to install DC fast chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers, on site. It is a prudent decision and there are many benefits involved. DC fast chargers provide greater convenience, an elevated level of customer service, added benefits to employees and guests, and a demonstrated commitment to reducing environmental impact. As an industry leader in electric vehicle charging solutions, one of the most common questions we are asked from our commercial clients is, “What is the cost of a DC fast charger and/or what is the cost to install a DC fast charger?”
Similar to any construction project, there are many factors that contribute to the overall cost of a DC fast charger purchase and/or installation. The initial things to consider are:
Charger Output Level – DC fast chargers can output from 20kW to above 350kW, depending on the model and application they are built for.
- Costs for these units can range from approximately $15,000 to over $150,000 for the highest output units.
- There are some chargers that can service two vehicles at the same time, but others may require additional dispensers, or units, in order to provide that convenience.
Existing Electrical Infrastructure – As a site owner, manager or operator, or the person tasked with getting a DC fast charger for your site, you will need to take into consideration your current electrical infrastructure. While DC fast chargers provide a faster charge, they also require a lot more energy. Most DC fast chargers need 480 V/3-Phase in order to function properly.
- There are a few DC fast chargers that can operate on single phase or 208V/3-Phase, but they are limited to 50kW output and below.
- If you are considering a high power DC fast charger installation, it may require over 500A of 480V/3-Phase.
- If the utility company needs to be involved to get additional power to the site, it can add to the cost due to the significant time involved.
Location – the closer to the electrical infrastructure you are, the more affordable your installation will be. The further away from the electrical panel, the greater the chance it will require cutting through concrete or walls, which will increase the overall costs.
Rebates and Incentives – There are many programs available to site hosts that can help offset the equipment costs, installation costs, or both. Please contact us for further information about programs you may qualify for.
It is important to note that DC fast chargers require an extra level of knowledge and expertise to select and install. You want to feel confident in your choice and we are here to help you with that process. EV Safe Charge specializes in DC fast chargers and can provide you with end-to-end solutions to meet all your needs.
Please contact us with any questions you may have. We offer the latest, most reliable DC fast chargers from the most trusted brands in the industry.
EV Charging in Limited Access Settings
As electric vehicles (EVs) are getting more popular, they are generating demand changes to businesses, housing and travel destinations .Charging stations are popping-up all over the place. Places previously deemed impractical or unsuitable for EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) are beginning to feature EV charging opportunities. The places we’re talking about include commercial settings, multi-family communities and even national parks/forests.
How to buy your first EV Charger
So you’ve just bought your first electric vehicle? Congratulations! Electric Vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive, great for the environment and incredibly easy to operate. So what’s the next step?
The next step is usually figuring out how to charge the new car and most importantly, how to charge your electric car at home. You will need to set-up your Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE). EVSE is infrastructure that supplies your EV with electric power. They work seamlessly with both BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles) and PHEV (Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles).
Technically, EV chargers are built into the car. An EVSE supplies power from your home’s grid into your vehicle’s built in charger which in turn, chargers your vehicle, and keep both vehicle and home safe, and the EV charger communicates with the EV such as when it’s plugged in properly and safe to charge.
What’s It Actually Like To Own An Electric Car?
For starters, if you invest in a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) also referred to as an electric-only car and often as an EV; you’ll never have to go to the gas station ever again. This of course is a different story if you opt out for PHEV (Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) or Hybrid, which still have ICEs (Internal Combustion Engines) that do in fact need fossil fuels to operate.
Are EVs Actually Better For The Environment?
The short answer is yes, electric vehicles (EVs) are in fact better for the environment as opposed to ICEVs (Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles). Thanks to government subsidies and competitive car markets, EVs are becoming much more affordable and more practical. This is of course, good news for the consumer. However, EV’s aren’t yet quite as inexpensive as some lowest-cost conventional cars, so why do people buy electric cars? Many people want to live greener lives and the environmental aspect will motivate them. But EVs are also fashionable and they’re fun to drive.
One great difference is something you can see right away, EVs have no tailpipes which means no emissions. This of course, is only true for BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), which solely run on an electric charge. Hybrids however still have an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine), but the MPG is often much greater and the vehicles operate more efficiently, so even they are much better for the environment.
When looked at side by side, EV’s are clearly better for the environment when compared to ICEVs or even Hybrids. Why?
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EV Charging For Your Business
Owning an electric vehicle (EV) has never been more attractive, thanks to technological advancements within the electric vehicle industry. EVs are not only great for the environment, but also for your wallet, As more and more EVs hit the market, vehicles become more affordable, which of course is better for anyone considering such a vehicle. One major concern people have about purchasing an EV is the driving range – this is known as “range anxiety.” However, most urban drivers drive 35 miles a day or less, so for the average driver it’s not an issue. And of course the ranges are continually getting better and better, making the cars more attractive. However most EV drivers welcome the chance to extend range by charging at various points along the way. EV charging stations are not yet as prevalent as gas stations, which is why savvy business owners are stepping up the plate.
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