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May 14

2024 Electric Vehicle Charging Guide: Navigating Your Options

Home Charging for EVs: Convenience and Efficiency

Home charging remains the most straightforward and convenient method for powering electric vehicles. Utilizing a standard 120-volt outlet, known as Level 1 charging, is sufficient for overnight use despite the slower charge rate. For quicker refueling, upgrading to a 240-volt setup, referred to as Level 2 charging, is recommended. This enhancement not only shortens the charging duration to about six to eight hours but could also be cost-effective long-term due to various state-level incentives for installation.

Public Charging Enhancements and Accessibility

With the rise in EV adoption, the infrastructure for public charging stations has expanded significantly. These facilities are now more prevalent in shopping centers, urban districts, and along key travel corridors, offering both Level 2 and fast-charging Level 3 options. The faster Level 3 charging can boost an EV’s battery to 80% capacity in roughly 30 minutes. It’s essential for EV owners to ensure their vehicles are compatible with the charging stations’ connectors, with some requiring adapters, notably within proprietary networks like Tesla’s Supercharger.

Workplace Charging: A Growing Employee Perk

Charging facilities at workplaces are becoming increasingly common, which is a significant benefit for EV owners. Many corporations are now providing Level 2 charging stations, allowing employees to conveniently charge their vehicles throughout the workday. This amenity is on the rise as businesses recognize the importance of fostering sustainable practices and attracting environmentally conscious staff. Financial incentives offered by some states further encourage the installation of these facilities.

Maximizing EV Charging Efficiency: Tips and Tricks

Charging Level Insights: Knowing the distinctions among Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging can guide you in choosing the optimal charging strategy to suit your daily demands and vehicle specifications.
Cost-Effective Home Charging: If your electricity provider offers reduced rates during off-peak times, schedule your charging accordingly to enhance cost-efficiency.
Navigating Long-Distance Travel: For extended journeys, planning routes that include access to fast-charging stations is crucial. Utilizing apps like PlugShare ensures that you can find compatible stations and maintain seamless travel.

This guide aims to arm EV owners in Missouri and beyond with detailed knowledge of their charging options, helping them make informed decisions to optimize their vehicle use and integrate effectively into their lifestyle.

Apr 22

Charging Speed Vs. Charging Power: What’s The Difference?

The concepts of charging power and charging speed are intrinsically linked, but they aren’t interchangeable and can be confused.

When talking about how quickly an electric vehicle replenishes its battery, two different concepts need to be examined. The first is the maximum charging power, measured in kilowatts (kW), and the second is the charging speed, which measures how many miles of range are added in an hour.

Put simply, you can liken charging power to the rate at which water flows through a hose while charging speed is the rate at which it can fill a barrel. So, when talking about charging power, we’re referring to the rate at which energy is being transferred into an EV’s battery pack. The higher the power, the quicker the vehicle will charge, and the less time you will have to spend waiting for it to finish charging.

Charging power and speed are connected but different

Charging power is how much juice an EV can put into its battery pack while charging speed is how quickly it can add miles of range.

Charging power is a straightforward concept (you get it by multiplying voltage and amperage), and manufacturers list this as one of the headline figures to help sell an EV. Even though most buyers rarely see the maximum advertised charging power because many conditions need to be met for it to be achieved, the fact that their vehicle can charge at, say, 350 kW will help seal the deal and ensure charging station bragging rights.

The fastest way to charge an EV is by using a Level 3 DC (direct current) fast charger, whose power typically ranges between 50 and 350 kW. You can find this type of charger only at a public charging station, and you can’t have one installed in your garage because its power requirement is very high, it needs a strong electrical connection to the grid, and it’s very expensive.

You can install a Level 2 AC (alternating current) charger, though, whose power rating ranges from about 3 kW to 19.2 kW (or 22 kW in Europe). For anything over 11 kW, you will need a special three-phase electrical connection, which isn’t cheap to install, and your local electricity grid may not even be able to support it. But even a 7 kW charger is enough for an overnight top-up.

Charging speed is not as simple to calculate as power because it depends on several factors. The most important factor is charging power, but the size and state of charge of the battery pack being charged are also important. The EV’s battery thermal management system and outside temperature and battery temperature also play a role in how many miles of range can be added in an hour.

Calculating how many miles of range are gained from a certain number of kilowatt hours added also depends on how efficient an EV is. For instance, adding 50 kW in an hour to the battery of a small EV that is light and frugal and charging it almost fully will add significantly more miles than adding 50 kWh to the battery of a big, thirsty pickup truck whose capacity is closer to 200 kWh.

Many smaller EVs with battery packs of 50–60 kWh don’t need the fastest charging power since their batteries can be replenished fairly quickly, even at 50–100 kW. However, if a truck with a big battery like the Chevrolet Silverado EV had that kind of maximum charging power, you would have to wait around for hours to charge it, even when plugged into a station that could deliver the maximum power that it could take.

Feb 18

Dodge Charger EV May Have 1,000 Horsepower

I am now officially confused. I was absolutely certain that the Banshee trim of the Dodge Charger Daytona EV would come in at 880 horsepower. But I may have been wrong. That beast may be churning out closer to 1,000 ponies. And this time, I’m getting my info from a leak in Italy.

Let’s back up a bit. Dodge shocked the world when it announced it was killing the V8 Charger to make room for an “eMuscle” lineup. It is working on a Charger to introduce in late 2024 which will have both hybrid gasoline and fully electric powertrains. I suspect the gasoline Chargers will share the new Ram truck’s turbocharged I6 which makes up to 520 horsepower. But Dodge’s true Hellcat replacements will be electric.

As part of its electric vehicle plan, Stellantis revealed that the new Charger will ride on the shared “STLA Large” chassis. The electric version of this chassis is AWD, with capacity for one engine at both ends of the vehicle. So far so good. Stellantis has also revealed that it has three levels of electric motors. The smallest makes up to 93 horsepower. The largest tops out at 440 horsepower.

Why 440 horsepower? I suspect Dodge requested Stellantis build that motor. Not only is 440 an important number to Dodge muscle cars (both a historic engine size and trim level), but so is 880. The “Custom 880” was a full-size Dodge built from 1962-65. And Dodge is leaning on old names to make its EV transition seem more legit. It’s first prototype is the Dodge Charger Daytona for goodness-sake.

What’s more, 880 puts the new Banshee trim of Dodge’s EVs comfortably ahead of the 808-horsepower “Redeye” tune of the Hellcat V8. Obviously, with maximum torque at zero rpm and AWD, a humble 600 horsepower EV would be able to put a lot more power down on a drag strip than a Hellcat. But hey, a higher number still makes for good marketing.

Green fender of an Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio trim sedan — 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Badge | Stellantis

I thought I had it all figured out. But hey, you know what they say about assuming, and making a donkey out of you and me both.

In a 2023 Top Gear interview, Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato let slip that the Quadrifoglio trim of the Giulia EV would make 1,000 horsepower. Here’s the kicker: the Giulia is the Charger’s Stellantis cousin and they’ll be sharing that “STLA Large” platform. What the hey?

I see several possibilities. I suppose Stellantis could be planning to make a more powerful Alfa Romeo Giulia than anything Dodge builds. But I can’t believe that’s true. Our second option is that Imparato was making up numbers. Perhaps he saw the Tesla Model S Plaid makes 1,020 horsepower and hopes this claim will push Stellantis to one-up it. But if you read the whole interview, it seems he has a plan and knows it well.

That leaves us with a third possibility: All the top-trim STLA Large EVs will have 1,000 horsepower and Imparato just inadvertently revealed the max horsepower number Dodge has been so tight-lipped about.

The STLA Large EV chassis that underpins the Jeep Wagoneer S — STLA Large EV Chassis | Stellantis

How will Stellantis pull this off? I suppose they could be working on a much more powerful electric motor. But Imparato said something else interesting: the mid-trim Giulia will make 800 horsepower. My money is on a tri-motor chassis that’s been kept under tight wraps. The two-motor Charger and Giulia EVs will make 800 and the Banshee/Quadrifoglio trim will take a page out of the Model S Plaid’s book and have two motors at the back. And this makes some sense: if Dodge is going electric, it will want to show up even Tesla.

Shouldn’t three 440-horsepower motors make a bit more than 1,000 horsepower? That depends on how much electricity it can put out to three motors simultaneously. It may truly top out at 1,000 ponies. Alternatively, Stellantis may just under rate this thing, having rightfully decided that 1,000 horses is plenty.

So there you have it: a pretty good chance the Dodge Charger Daytona EV claims 1,000 horsepower. But until Dodge announces it for sure, I’ll be the last to assume anything.

Jan 18

U.S. Commits $150 Million to Enhance EV Charger Reliability

Revamping EV Infrastructure in the U.S.

The U.S. government has committed $150 million to address the prevalent issue of malfunctioning electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the nation. Amidst growing concerns about the reliability of EV infrastructure, this funding aims to refurbish aging chargers in 20 states including California and New York. This initiative is part of the broader effort to meet the ambitious goal of deploying 500,000 public EV chargers by 2030.

Tesla Superchargers Out of Order Overblown Chicago

Automotive Industry Seeks Restoration of R&D Tax Benefits

The automotive sector is advocating for a change in tax regulations to foster further innovation and development in the EV landscape. A shift in 2022 mandated that R&D expenses be amortized over five years, diluting immediate financial incentives for innovation. Industry leaders are now pushing for legislation that would allow 100% deductibility of these expenses in the first year, arguing that it would bolster U.S. competitiveness and innovation in emerging automotive technologies.

Europe Introduces ‘Battery Passports’ for EVs

Starting in 2027, the European Union will require new EVs to have a ‘battery passport’—a digital record detailing the battery’s origin, composition, and health. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and sustainability in the EV supply chain by providing detailed information about the sourcing and lifecycle of battery materials. This passport will help consumers make informed decisions based on the sustainability and longevity of the vehicle’s battery.

Used 2023 Tesla Model S P85 sold for $7,800

Jan 18

GM Electric Vehicles Gain Seamless Charging with EV Connect’s Plug and Charge Integration

Streamlining the EV Charging Experience

EV Connect has revolutionized the charging process for General Motors’ electric vehicles by implementing the Plug and Charge technology, as announced in a recent joint statement by the two companies. This technology eliminates the need for EV drivers to use a payment card or RFID tag at charging stations. Now, GM EV owners can simply connect their vehicles to the charger, and charging begins automatically, streamlining the user experience significantly.

Enhancing Accessibility with Smart Features

General Motors drivers can now enjoy the convenience of Plug and Charge across various EV Connect locations, a capability first introduced by EVgo. To access this feature, users must complete a one-time setup via a brand-specific mobile app to enter their payment details, akin to the process Tesla owners follow with the Supercharger network. Additionally, EV Connect has integrated a filter feature in GM’s vehicle apps, allowing users to easily locate compatible charging stations.

2023 Cadillac Lyriq exterior charging port open

Expanding Infrastructure and Driving EV Adoption

EV Connect, a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, manages approximately 3,500 charging stations, including nearly 200 DC fast chargers that support the Plug and Charge feature. This initiative is part of a broader effort by EV Connect and GM to enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience by removing common barriers to charging. Jon Leicester, Vice President, Head of Commercial at EV Connect, emphasized that this collaboration is designed to make EV charging more accessible and user-friendly, potentially boosting broader EV adoption.

Nov 21

Hertz and EVgo Unveil Exclusive Charging Discounts for Electric Vehicle Renters

Hertz and EVgo’s New Charging Discount Initiative

Hertz and EVgo have teamed up to offer an enticing promotion that provides a full year of discounted charging rates for drivers who rent electric vehicles (EVs) from Hertz locations nationwide. This collaboration aims to enhance the experience for new EV renters by making charging more affordable through EVgo’s extensive fast charging network. With Hertz’s impressive fleet of thousands of EVs and EVgo’s widespread charging stations, this partnership is set to make electric driving more accessible and cost-effective.

Benefits for New EV Drivers

This promotion is particularly beneficial for those new to electric vehicles, offering a great opportunity to explore EV ownership with reduced charging costs. New EVgo customers who sign up will enjoy significant savings, with no monthly or session fees for a year at EVgo’s network. It’s a perfect chance for renters to experience the convenience of EVs and charging infrastructure without the commitment of ownership.

Insights and Considerations

Hertz’s current fleet features electric models from leading manufacturers like Tesla, Polestar, and General Motors, though recent challenges have impacted their expansion efforts. Despite these challenges, Hertz’s Chief Marketing Officer Wayne Davis emphasizes their commitment to enhancing customer experiences with diverse vehicle options and affordable charging solutions. This initiative not only supports smoother journeys for renters but also highlights the growing accessibility of electric vehicles.

Aug 19

Enhance Your Electric Vehicle Experience: Top EV Charging Accessories and Essentials

Understanding EV Charging Connectors

Electric vehicle (EV) owners encounter various charging connectors, each tailored to different standards. In North America, the Type 1 (J1772) is prevalent for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, commonly used by many manufacturers except Tesla. Meanwhile, Europe has adopted the Type 2 (Mennekes) connector as the standard for AC charging, and CHAdeMO remains popular among Japanese automakers for DC fast-charging, though it’s being gradually replaced by the CCS (Combined Charging System). Recently, the North American Charging Standard (NACS), initially Tesla’s proprietary connector, has been opened up to other manufacturers like Ford and GM, broadening its usage.

Determining Connector Compatibility

To find out which charging connector suits your EV, consult your vehicle’s manual or manufacturer’s website. Teslas predominantly use the NACS connector, while most other North American EVs are compatible with the J1772 connector. Additionally, many modern EVs feature labels near their charging ports to indicate the appropriate connector type, simplifying the process.

Charging Times Across Different Chargers

The duration required to charge an EV varies based on the charger’s power output and the vehicle’s battery capacity. Typically, Level 1 chargers (120V AC) take between 4 to 24 hours for a full charge, while Level 2 chargers (240V AC) can complete the task in 3 to 8 hours. DC Fast Chargers (Level 3) provide a quicker solution, offering 80% charge in about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the charger’s power and vehicle compatibility.

Charging Safety in Wet Conditions

Charging an EV in rain or wet conditions is generally safe due to built-in protective features in charging systems that guard against electrical hazards. However, it’s crucial to inspect the equipment for any visible damage and ensure it’s properly connected before use. For specific safety concerns or conditions, always refer to your EV manufacturer or consult a qualified electrician.

Jul 12

Some Rivian R1T And R1S Units Unable To Charge On AC Due To Faulty Onboard Charger

Rivian has started a customer satisfaction campaign to replace the onboard charger on some R1T all-electric pickups and R1S zero-emissions SUVs because they may have been shipped with a faulty component that disables AC charging, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The bulletin, which was spotted by the Rivian Forums user Bael, states that some R1S and R1T vehicles manufactured between December 2022 and March 2023 may be equipped with the faulty onboard charger and that DC fast charging is still functional on affected units.

In other words, vehicles that have this issue can’t be recharged with a Level 1 (120 volts) or Level 2 (240 volts) charger, but plugging into a DC fast charger, which bypasses the onboard charger, will still put juice in the battery.

It’s worth noting that this is not a recall. Here’s the campaign’s description, as per the NHTSA document:

“Rivian is initiating a customer satisfaction campaign for some model year 2022-2023 R1S and R1T vehicles that may have been built with an onboard charger that cannot charge on alternating current (AC). The part supplier shipped onboard chargers that were built with a faulty component. Though AC charging may be disabled in these vehicles, direct current (DC) fast charging is still functional. Rivian will replace the onboard charger. Rivian is launching this campaign for customer satisfaction and to ensure the quality of Rivian vehicles.”

We got in touch with Rivian to find out how many vehicles are potentially affected by this issue and we’ll update this article when we get a comment from the EV maker.

A possible fix for owners who are experiencing problems while charging at home is to lower the input amperage to 40 amps or 32 amps and then try again, according to Rivian Forum users who came across the issue.

The R1T and R1S are equipped with a 48-amp onboard charger that can deliver up to 11.5 kilowatts of power when the mobile charger is plugged into a NEMA 14-50 outlet, adding roughly 25 miles of range per hour.

As our own Tom Moloughney found out, charging a Rivian R1T can also be done at 40 amps, which translates into 9.6 kW of power and adds about 20 miles of range per hour. A Level 2 charger connected to a 32-amp circuit reduces the power to 7.7 kW and adds about 15 miles of range per hour.

Charging from a 120-volt, 12-amp outlet (Level 1, 1.4 kW), the all-electric pickup will gain just 2-3 miles of range in one hour. At the same time, the R1T can accept up to 220 kW from a DC fast charger, which can increase the battery’s state of charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 45 minutes.

As always, we’d like to know what you think about this: have you experienced this issue, and if so, what worked for you? Scroll down to the comments section and give us your thoughts.

Tag: charger