All-electric driving ranges are increasing, with some models able to drive more than 300 miles on a single charge. And depending on how far you drive each day, you may be able to meet all of your driving needs by plugging in only at home. The Fuel Economy and Environment Label, which you see on cars at the dealership, shows driving range and charge time. The label also shows the average annual fuel cost associated with the EV and the anticipated cost savings over five years compared to the average gasoline vehicle. In addition to fuel savings, fully electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and typically require less maintenance. Additionally, no emissions testing is needed.
Compare the greenhouse gas emissions associated with charging and driving an EV in your area using EPA’s Beyond Tailpipe Emissions calculator.
Sample emissions output
Most EVs can be charged with a standard wall plug (120-volt outlet). These chargers are appropriate for fully electric vehicles not driven many miles per week, and for plug in hybrid cars that have small batteries and limited battery range. To charge fully electric vehicles more quickly, you may want to access a charging system with a dedicated 240-volt outlet.
EV Charger Type |
Charging Rate |
---|---|
Level 1 (120 volt) |
2 to 5 miles of range per 1 hour of charging |
Level 2 (240 volt) |
10 to 20 miles of range per 1 hour of charging |
Choosing a charger that has earned the ENERGY STAR label means energy savings, safety, convenience, and smart technology. Find ENERGY STAR certified electric vehicle chargers
Energy Savings: EV chargers are typically in standby mode (i.e., not actively charging a vehicle) for about 85% of the time. ENERGY STAR certified EV chargers provide all the functionality as standard products but use 40% less energy in standby mode, reducing their impact on the environment. If you have the option, charging your electric car with green power (PDF, 172 KB) , which is sourced from emissions-free electricity sources, offers additional environmental benefits.
Safety: Not all EV chargers that are for sale are safety certified, including some from large online and storefront retailers. To ensure your charger meets safety standards, choose one that’s earned the ENERGY STAR. All ENERGY STAR certified chargers are tested for safety by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
Smart Technology: Some ENERGY STAR certified EV charger models are connected, allowing for remote power monitoring and control of the charging state of the connected vehicle. These smart grid ready products may qualify households and property managers to participate in special energy bill savings programs that may be offered by some local electric utilities.
EV owners ideally have access to overnight charging, in their driveway/garage or wherever they park their car. Without overnight charging, EV owners can charge at some workplaces, or use public charging.
Ask the dealer. When shopping for an electric vehicle, ask the dealer about ENERGY STAR certified EV chargers. Homeowners who are purchasing a new EV are typically offered a Level 1 charger (also called a cord set) as part of their vehicle purchase or lease, rather than purchased independently. However, there are advantages to upgrading to a Level 2 charger, including faster charging times, which may be necessary to charge longer-range EVs overnight.
Ask the retailer. Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers are sold by big box and independent retailers, mainly online. Purchase an ENERGY STAR certified EV charger to ensure it meets key industry safety standards. Non-ENERGY STAR certified chargers may not be safety certified. In fact, many products sold by some major retailers may have false safety certifications displayed.
Hire a contractor. Contact a licensed electrician to evaluate whether your home’s wiring, electrical outlets, and other hardware can support the charging requirements of your EV. Your car dealer or the EV manufacturer may also recommend a third-party or contractor network that may be able to conduct a home assessment.
Use green power to charge your car. Using “green power” from your electricity supplier will provide maximum environmental benefit. Not only will you be eliminating carbon emissions from your tailpipe and electricity generation, you will be supporting green power suppliers. For more information on how to do this, see EPA’s Guide to Charging EVs with Green Power (PDF, 172 KB) .
Additional Resources:
- Building Electric Vehicle-Ready Homes (PDF, 142 KB)
- Consumer demand for homes ready for or equipped with EV charging is growing. This resource outlines the paths that can make a home EV-ready.
- Federal Tax Credit for EV Chargers
- Qualified residential EV charging stations are eligible for a federal tasx credit of up to $1,000.