A flurry of television advertisements promoting new electric vehicle (EV) offerings last year may have been premature, as supply chain and manufacturing delays delayed the delivery of these models. However, the situation is expected to change this fall as inventories slowly build up. Car manufacturers have announced their plans to deliver 16 new EV models by the end of the year, with nearly 50 more models set to hit the market by the end of 2023. This surge in new offerings, along with greater selection and federal rebates, has already driven an increase in EV sales in the United States. In fact, EV sales in the first half of this year were nearly 50% higher than the previous year. According to Cox Automotive, it is projected that over 1 million EVs will be sold by the end of 2023.
With growing inventories, falling prices, and federal tax incentives, EV ownership is becoming increasingly attractive for consumers considering a new vehicle. However, before making the switch to an EV, it’s important to consider whether your garage is ready to charge the vehicle and, if not, at what cost.
Basic EV charging equipment typically comes with new vehicles and can be plugged into a standard three-prong, 120-volt wall outlet. While this is convenient, it may not meet everyone’s needs. A basic wall-outlet charger, also known as a Level 1 charger, can only add 3 to 6 miles of driving range per hour, making it a slow option for those looking to fully recharge their vehicle. Additionally, existing outlets and wiring should be checked by an electrician, especially in older houses, to ensure safety.
A better charging choice is a Level 2 charger, which has become the standard for home charging. These chargers can add 25 to 40 miles of driving range per hour and are more affordable compared to high-speed Level 3 chargers found at public charging stations. However, installing a Level 2 charger may come with additional costs, particularly in older buildings where electrical panels and wiring may need to be upgraded. Contractors estimate that upgrading an older house to support EV charging could cost around $4,000 to $5,000.
While a Level 1 charger can be sufficient for daily commutes and short trips, a Level 2 charger offers faster charging and greater convenience, especially for longer trips. The growing number of EV models hitting the market in the coming years will likely drive more consumers to invest in Level 2 chargers and upgrade their garage infrastructure to accommodate their EV charging needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many new EV models are expected to be delivered by the end of 2023?
According to Car and Driver, manufacturers have announced plans to deliver 16 new EV models by the end of 2023, with nearly 50 additional models expected to hit the market by then.
2. What factors have contributed to the increase in EV sales in the United States?
Greater selection of EV models, federal rebates, and falling prices have all contributed to the increase in EV sales in the United States.
3. What are the benefits of a Level 2 charger compared to a Level 1 charger?
A Level 2 charger offers faster charging, adding 25 to 40 miles of driving range per hour, compared to a Level 1 charger, which adds only 3 to 6 miles per hour. A Level 2 charger is also more affordable and meets the charging needs of most EV owners.
4. How much does it cost to install a Level 2 charger in a garage?
The cost of installing a Level 2 charger can vary depending on factors such as the existing electrical service and the condition of the wiring and electrical panels. Contractors estimate that upgrading an older house to support EV charging can cost around $4,000 to $5,000.
5. Is a Level 1 charger sufficient for daily commutes and short in-town trips?
Yes, a Level 1 charger can be sufficient for daily commutes and short trips. Plugging in overnight can provide between 30 and 50 miles of charge on a standard outlet, which is suitable for many drivers.