Getting Real about EV Charge Times








    New EVs like this Lexus RZ550e now use the North American Charging Standard NACS, the kind you'll find on Tesla Super Chargers - Photo by Brian Moody 

                                                                                                                                                      


There's a lot of talk about electric vehicle charging times, but it might not be as rosy as you've been led to believe. Look at the small print. The owner's manual sometimes says, "frequent fast charging may impact battery life." Or "For best battery performance, don't charge beyond 90 percent." 

Also, when looking at charging times, notice how it often says "from 10 percent to 80 percent." Who wants to charge up 3/4 of the way to full? Not me. 

Also, that extra 40 minutes to charge... 40 minutes is a long time. Try powering through that extra time with a toddler in the car. Besides, 80 percent of EV owners charge up at home. 

The bottom line - no matter which EV you get, you'll need the optional quick charger or level 2 charger for home. Ford provides a complimentary Level 2 charger (Ford Charge Station Pro) and standard installation for new Mustang Mach-e, F-150 Lightning, and Ford E-transit new vehicle buyers. Stellantis brands (Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Jeep, etc.) also offer free home charging stations with EV purchases.

Now have NACS charging ports, like the setup Tesla uses. 

The standard 120v power cable can work in emergencies, but it's just not practical for anyone who plans to put a lot of miles each day on their electric car.

- Updated 1/2026

Comments

  1. ryanOctober 16, 2017 at 5:02 AM

    hier electric car.
    Posted by Brian Moody at 8:14 AM

    ReplyDelete

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