The EV-er changing world of Electric Vehicles and EV Charging Stations
50% of all vehicles will need a charge by year 2030*
An average of 115 million vehicles travel the roads each day and roughly 2 million of those vehicles are electric. The US Department of Energy predicts that by the year 2030, at least 50% of the vehicles on the road will be electric.
Six automobile manufactures have already globally pledged to stop producing new gas and diesel powered vehicles by the year 2040. Many vehicle manufacturers have already begun producing hybrid vehicles as well as fully electric vehicles bringing more competition, improved technology and more affordable options to the market.
So what about my fuel efficient vehicle or my gas guzzler or diesel work horse? TBD.
Lets take a virtual trip to the dealership because we have decided to purchase an EV. Everything looks great, battery life in relation to mileage per kwh is impressive as well what we formerly knew as “horse power”. Horse power is now kw. Electric vehicles produce more torque than conventional engines. Most EV’s do not have a transmission, so all that torque is transferred straight from the engine to the wheels.
So where do I stop to get gas, I mean electric for my vehicle?
Lets address the elephant in the room and answer this question… Is your standard wall outlet enough to charge your EV?
The short answer is yes.
The long answer is yes, but to charge your electric vehicle from 20% to about 80% could take as long as 24-48 hours. You would use the charging cord or adapter that came with you vehicle. This is what we consider an AC Level 1 trickle charge.
In addition to Level 1 charging, there are two other options that will allow you to charge your vehicle faster and you have probably already seen them at larger gas stations and stores. These chargers require a qualified electrician to install them.
The most common of these chargers is an AC Level 2 EV Charger. This charger allows you to charge your vehicle from anywhere between 4 and 14 hours. This is the most ideal charger for you home and business as it is the most cost effective.
The fastest charger currently on the market is a DCLevel 3 Charger. The level 3 charger is considered the “top off” charger and will charge your vehicle anywhere from 20-90 minutes. These chargers are the most expensive, but many businesses have already opted to install these chargers as a courtesy and convenience to their customers.
MVE Group has been very busy installing level 2 and level 3 chargers in the last two years as businesses and homeowners have already embraced the transition.
As mentioned above, you will need a qualified electrician to install these chargers.
In addition to supplying power to the chargers, some situations may require trenching, curb, sidewalk and lot work, safety bollards, pavement markings, signage, and ethernet wiring.
Are there any incentives to installing a car charger?
Absolutely! Pennsylvania’s Level 2 charger rebates starts at $3000 for businesses. Of course there are also federal and state incentives and rebates. Businesses also have the opportunity to use the EV Chargers to generate revenue.
MVE Group has more than 4 decades of commercial electrical experience as well as 10 plus years designing and installing commercial solar PV systems. We have a lot of experience with DC energy projects and will be able to help you make the best decision depending on your charging needs.
If you have any questions about installing EV Chargers, please allow us to share our resources with you.
MVE Group would be happy to help you navigate through the available options as well as help you secure any rebates or incentives.
