Charging
The distance an EV can travel on a single battery charge is known as its "all-electric range." All-electric vehicles can typically go 100 to more than 400 miles on a single charge. The average all-electric vehicle range was 260 miles in 2020. Larger batteries and growing access to charging are increasingly addressing "range anxiety," or the fear of running out of charge.
Charge Levels
Most EVs come with a 110-volt, Level 1 cordset that can be plugged in to a typical household outlet. For quicker charging, homeowners often install a 240-volt, Level 2 unit. Most homes have 240-volt service for appliances like dryers and electric ranges. Direct Current (DC) Fast units enable rapid charging along heavy traffic corridors at installed stations.
Level 1 charging units add 2–5 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 2 charging units add 10–30 miles of range per hour of charging. Under normal circumstances, it takes about 10 hours to recharge an EV using Level 2 chargers when the battery is near empty. DC Fast units can add 100–200+ miles of range in as little as 30 minutes.
More and more workplaces are installing charging units or making 110-volt outlets available to employees and visitors.
Idaho Falls Power will install Siemens Level 2 chargers for commercial customers who want EV charging capability. The cost is $20 per month for each charger, and the customer must pay for the electricity used for charging.
Idaho Falls Power also offers free Level 2 charging at its offices at 140 S. Capital Avenue.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Range
PHEVs can typically go 15–50 miles on battery power alone. Their overall range is determined by the fuel tank capacity because the engine kicks in when the battery is depleted. Several factors affect actual range, including driving conditions, driving habits, and use of climate controls.
Charging Costs
Charging costs depend on several factors: the price of electricity, your car's efficiency, and how many miles you drive. Home charging is the most economical.
Public charging costs vary by region and network provider. Some public stations are free and open to all, with electricity subsidized by the property owner. Fee structure and membership requirements vary by charging network. Charging on the go usually costs more than charging at home though less than the current average cost of gasoline.
There are more than 100,000 public charging outlets across the country, including a growing number of "DC fast charge" units that enable rapid charging. To locate stations, use the Alternative Fueling Station Locator.
