EV Charger News
The federal government’s plan for a 500,000 network of EV chargers along major roads and highways is not likely to be achieved for many years. However, this week Tesla agreed to open, 7500 of its fast chargers to other EV models. With over 17,700 fast chargers, these 250 kw chargers add up to 300 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes.
The Wall Street Journal reported on 2/16/2023 that Tesla plans to open thousands of existing and soon to be complete charging locations in coveted spots to non-Tesla driver in 2023 and 2024. This move allows Tesla to compete for billions of federal infrastructure monies to expand the charging network.
How to find an EV charger
The best way to find an EV (electric vehicle) charger is to use an online mapping service or mobile app specifically designed for this purpose. Here are a few options:
- PlugShare: This is a popular online and mobile app that provides a comprehensive database of charging stations around the world. You can use the app to search for chargers by location, type of charger, and other filters.
- ChargePoint: This is another popular network of EV charging stations, and their website and mobile app can help you find charging stations in your area.
- Electrify America: This company has a growing network of fast-charging stations across the United States, and they offer a mobile app to help you locate their chargers.
- Tesla Superchargers: If you own a Tesla vehicle, you can use the Tesla Supercharger network to quickly charge your car. You can use the Tesla mobile app to find nearby Superchargers.
- Google Maps: Google Maps has a feature that allows you to search for EV charging stations. You can type in “EV charging” in the search bar, and it will show you charging stations near your location.
Keep in mind that not all charging stations are created equal. Some may offer faster charging speeds or different types of connectors, so it’s important to check the details of each station before you head out to charge.
EV Charging Basics
Charging an electric vehicle (EV) is a straightforward process. Here are the general steps to follow:
- Find a charging station: You can use an online mapping service or mobile app specifically designed for this purpose to locate an EV charging station in your area.
- Connect the charging cable: Once you’ve found a charging station, connect the charging cable to your EV. The location and type of charging port will vary depending on your specific make and model of car, but it should be clearly marked on your vehicle.
- Start the charging session: After you’ve connected the cable, follow the instructions on the charging station. Depending on the station, you may need to activate the charging session using a mobile app, a credit card, or some other form of authentication.
- Wait for the charging session to complete: Charging times will vary depending on the type of charger and the state of charge of your EV’s battery. Level 1 charging (using a standard 120-volt household outlet) can take many hours to fully charge, while Level 2 charging (using a 240-volt charging station) can take several hours. Fast charging (using a DC fast charger) can get your battery to 80% charged in 30–60 minutes, but it may take longer to reach 100%.
- Disconnect and pay: Once the charging session is complete, disconnect the charging cable and pay for the charging session, if required. Some charging stations may require you to pay in advance, while others may allow you to pay after the session is complete.
It’s important to note that the specifics of charging an EV can vary based on the make and model of your vehicle, the type of charging station you’re using, and the charging protocol that your car supports. Be sure to consult your vehicle owner’s manual and the instructions provided by the charging station to ensure that you’re following the correct procedures for your specific situation.
America Charged 