If you're considering buying an electric vehicle, you may be wondering how to test your range anxiety. Range anxiety is the fear of not being able to drive far enough on a single charge. It can be a major deterrent for people who are thinking of making the switch to electric vehicles. In this blog post, we will discuss 6 steps to test your range anxiety before buying an EV. We'll also talk about home EV charging point installation and what you need to consider before having one installed.
What is EV Range Anxiety?
When it comes to electric vehicles, range anxiety is a real thing. For the uninitiated, range anxiety is the fear of running out of charge while driving an electric vehicle (EV). This can lead to stress and inconvenience, as the driver scrambles to find a power source. There are a few reasons for this. First, EVs have a shorter range than traditional gasoline-powered cars. This means that drivers have to be more conscious of their driving habits and plan their trips accordingly. Secondly, the charging infrastructure for EVs is not as developed as it could be. This means that drivers may not be able to find a charging station when they need one.Despite the efforts of governments through grants and incentives, range anxiety is a major reason why EV adoption has stalled. Range anxiety is a valid concern for potential EV buyers. However, it's important to keep in mind that the benefits of driving an EV outweigh the drawbacks and there are steps to test your range anxiety before buying an EV.
How far can electric vehicles really take you?
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, but there are still some misconceptions about how far they can take you. For instance, many believe that electric vehicles only have a limited range before needing to be recharged. However, the truth is that the average electric vehicle can travel up to 200 miles on a single charge. And with new advancements in battery technology, that number is only going to increase. Tesla has plans to release a new line of electric vehicles with a range of up to 500 miles. So if you're thinking about switching to an electric vehicle, rest assured that you'll be able to go the distance.
6 Steps to test your range anxiety before buying an EV
Driving an electric vehicle may be the best way to relieve range anxiety. However, it is a good idea to check the availability of charging stations before purchasing an electric vehicle. Here are the 6 steps to test your range anxiety before buying an EV:
1. Assess your home charging options
Are you a homeowner?
If you own a home, a home EV charging point installation is having your own charging station every night and starting the day with a fully charged EV. Level 1 charging The majority of electric car charging cables are compatible with any standard electrical outlet one might use to charge a smartphone. There is no need for special connectors or equipment. The standard electric plug charges batteries at 2-5 miles per hour. If you drive 32 miles per day, then a wall charger (also known as "Level 1") may be enough to charge your batteries each night. Level 2 charger (240 volts)A Level 2 charger can charge your car at 10-20 miles of range per hour. A dedicated 40-amp circuit is a must for Level 2 chargers, but a 50- or 60-amp circuit is better if you want futureproof your investment.
Are you renting an apartment?
You could speak with your landlord if you park near an electric outlet at your apartment to ask them to install charging points. Sometimes landlords will allow you to install faster Level 2 chargers. Don't despair if you don't have street parking. You may still be able to find charging points close to your home.
2. Find DC fast chargers near you
Sometimes misnamed "Level 3" chargers, DC Fast Chargers (or Tesla Superchargers) are high-powered equipment that can charge a battery from empty up to 80% in 30 minutes. Home installations of this equipment are very rare because they can be expensive.Because of their speed, DC Fast Chargers have become more popular as public charging options. Another way to test your range anxiety before buying an EV is by finding DC Fast Chargers close to your home, regardless of whether you have to charge at the house or not.
3. Plug into (free) Workplace Charging
Is your employer offering workplace charging at no cost? It is much more affordable to charge your electric car than gasoline, more so if your employer would pay for your fuel while you are at work.The popularity of workplace electric car charging stations is growing because of the benefits it provides to the company and employees. The majority of chargers are Level 2 and can charge your car's battery within 8 hours of working. In addition to the obvious benefits of free fuel, EV workplace charging is better for the environment because it is most efficient during the day when the sun is at its strongest.
4. Route plan your big trips for electric car charging stations
When you're planning a road trip in an electric car, one of the things you'll need to think about is where you'll stop to recharge your batteries. Fortunately, many electric cars have navigation systems that can help with this. By inputting your destination, the system can suggest routes that include charging stations. This can be a big help in making sure that you don't run out of juice before you reach your destination. Of course, it's still a good idea to do some research ahead of time to make sure that there are charging stations along your route. This is an effective way to test your range anxiety before buying an EV.
5. Consider a roadside service as a backup plan when your EV runs out of power
While most EVs come with a charger that you can use to recharge at home or at a public charging station, there may be times when you find yourself stranded with a dead battery. That's where roadside assistance comes in. Roadside service providers offer EV charging services that can get you back on the road in no time. So, if you're ever in a pinch, remember that a roadside service plan is always a good backup option.
6. Consider how much you could save by buying an electric car
Although the initial purchase price of an electric car may be higher than that of a comparable gas-powered car, the long-term savings can be significant. For example, you'll never have to pay for gas again, and you'll also enjoy lower maintenance costs. Over time, these savings can add up to thousands of dollars. By looking for a way to save money on your transportation costs, you’ll be inclined to test your range anxiety before buying an EV.
Need Home EV Charging Point Installation? EcoPlex can help!
Home EV charging point installation is becoming increasingly popular as more people switch to electric vehicles. If you're thinking of making the switch, or if you've already made the switch, EcoPlex can help you with home EV charging point installation. We're experienced in installing home EV charging points. We're committed to providing a high-quality, professional service. Contact us today to learn more about our home EV charging point installation services.
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