Owning an electric vehicle (EV) has been a game-changer for me, but it’s also made me rethink how I keep my car powered up. Like many new EV owners, I initially thought that DC fast chargers were the only way to go—after all, they’re like the gas stations of the electric age, right? But after some real-world experience, I’ve realized that AC charging, especially Level 2, is actually the smarter, more practical choice for my day-to-day driving.
When I first got my EV, I was all about finding the nearest DC fast charger. These things are powerful, pumping out up to 350 kW and getting you from 20% to 80% in just about 20 minutes. Sounds great in theory, but here’s the kicker: it’s not cheap. I learned that DC fast charging can be up to three times more expensive than using a Level 2 AC charger—$0.59 per kWh versus $0.20 per kWh, according to the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT).
And it’s not just about the cost. DC fast chargers are expensive to install and maintain, which means the fees get passed down to drivers like me. Plus, they’re designed for quick stops, much like traditional gas stations, but I quickly realized that most of my charging actually happens at home or work. That’s where AC charging really shines.
So, here’s the deal: AC charging, especially Level 2, has become my go-to. These chargers might be slower than DC fast chargers, but they’re perfect for my everyday needs. I can get 10-30 miles of range per hour with a Level 2 charger, which is more than enough when I’m topping up overnight or while parked at work.
On average, I drive about 30 miles a day, which is pretty standard according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Even with just a Level 1 charger—yes, the basic 110v outlet—I can replenish that range overnight. And when I plug into a Level 2 charger, my car’s ready to go in 6-8 hours. No stress, no high costs.
Beyond my personal experience, AC charging just makes more sense overall. It’s easier on the wallet and on the electrical grid. The Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) backs this up, saying that widespread Level 2 charging could significantly reduce peak load on the grid, especially when charging is done during off-peak hours. This makes AC charging more sustainable, not just for me but for the broader community.
Another plus? The lower cost of installing and operating Level 2 chargers means more of them can be deployed in more places—making charging more accessible for everyone. And as the EV market continues to grow, that accessibility is going to be key. BloombergNEF predicts that over 50% of all vehicle sales will be electric by 2040, so we need a charging network that can keep up.
After spending some time with my EV, I’ve come to the conclusion that DC fast chargers are great for the occasional road trip, but they’re not the everyday solution they’re often made out to be. For me, and probably for most other EV drivers, AC charging is where it’s at. It’s economical, practical, and it fits seamlessly into my life.
So, if you’re like me—using your EV for the daily commute, grocery runs, and weekend outings—consider making AC charging your mainstay. It’s a small shift in thinking that can make a big difference in your EV experience, and it’s definitely the direction I’m heading in for the long haul.
Published August 17, 2024 8:22PM
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