Name: Plug In to the Future – Get Charged about Electric Vehicles!
Start: 2018-03-03T10:00:00-08:00
End: 2018-03-03T13:30:00-08:00
Location: Energize CT Center

Question 1

What is an electric vehicle (EV)?

pluginamerica · Accepted Answer

An electric vehicle is any vehicle that can drive on electricity derived from a power plug. An all-electric vehicle (sometimes called a battery electric vehicle (BEV) drives solely on power from the plug. There are a few different ways to charge. You can learn about them here.

Question 2

What is a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV)?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

A PHEV is a car that can take both electricity (from plugging in) and gasoline. Usually, they run on electricity first and then drawn on gasoline later. That way, you are driving electric around town and only use gasoline for long trips.

Question 3

Is the Prius an electric car?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Most Priuses get their power from gasoline and then convert it into electricity, but are still gasoline cars. However, some older models and the more recent Toyota Prius Prime can also plug in (see plug-in hybrids, above), so those are considered electric cars.

Question 4

Are plug-in vehicles dependable?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Yes. Plug-in cars are the most dependable vehicles on the market. They will last as long or longer than gasoline automobiles, with less regular maintenance required. Since there are significantly fewer moving parts in an EV compared to a traditional vehicle, less ongoing preventative maintenance is needed. They require no oil changes, tune-ups, or new spark plugs. Brake life is extended on EVs since the motor is used to slow the car, recapturing the kinetic energy and storing it back in the battery. Electric motors will also outlast the body of the vehicle. Many automakers also offer warranties on the batteries.

Question 5

Can electric cars drive far enough to be practical?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Most electric cars have a range of 85-370 miles, although this is quickly growing. Very few drivers travel this far on a daily basis. For the infrequent occasions when a long-distance drive is needed, the drive can be done with a second car that is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), by access to vehicles in car-share services, or by renting or borrowing another vehicle.

Question 6

Aren’t plug-in cars expensive?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

When you consider the total cost of ownership, including purchase, rebates, fuel costs, and maintenance, plug-in cars are cheaper than similar gas cars. See our Plug-in Vehicle Tracker to learn about available cars. Then check our list of incentives that can help you buy the car.

Question 7

Can electric vehicles self-charge?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

No. Energy conversions are never 100 percent efficient, so every time we convert one form of energy to another, we lose some of that energy. Hybrids and EVs recapture some of their energy back into the batteries through regenerative braking.

Question 8

How long does it take to charge a plug-in car?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

How long does it take to charge your cell phone? Think about charging your car just like you think about charging your cell phone. Most people charge their cars at home or work, just like a cell phone. Plug it in when you arrive and it will be ready for you in the morning, or the end of the work day. The actual charging time depends on the size of your battery, how far you have driven, and the amperage of the charging system. Keep in mind that most of the time, the battery will not be empty when you plug in, just like your cell phone. Learn more about types of available charging stations on Plug In America’s accessories tracker.

Question 9

Where do you recharge a plug-in vehicle?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Most people recharge overnight in their garage, carport or driveway or work, but there are many public chargers for electric cars as well. Find a public EV charging station here. An estimated 99 percent of all charging currently happens at home or work.

Question 10

How much does it cost to charge a plug-in vehicle?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Much less than it costs to buy gasoline. Exactly how much depends on the vehicle and electricity rates. On average, it costs less than $1 to charge a plug-in hybrid and $2-$4 for an all-electric car. Your overall energy bill will be lowered by driving with electricity. Read more about costs here.

Question 11

Which charging station should I buy?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

New plug-in vehicles come with cords to plug into standard 120-volt household outlets. For faster charging, many drivers will want to buy a charging station to plug into a 240-volt outlet. See our Accessory Tracker to compare charging station options. All 240-volt charging stations (Level 2 charging) come with the same "J connector" that should allow any plug-in vehicle to connect to any charging station.

Question 12

Is plugging in a hassle?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Not at all - it takes less than five seconds, and there’s no going out of your way to a gas station, jockeying for a pump, and getting toxic gasoline on your hands. You can charge anywhere there is an electric outlet. Most EV drivers plug in when they get home.

Question 13

What about hydrogen cars?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are another alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, but are less than half as efficient as electric vehicles (EVs). Most hydrogen is extracted from natural gas, which, when processed, emits carbon dioxide and methane, according to a 2021 study. Thus, it creates far more greenhouse gas emissions than electricity. FCVs have some engineering challenges to overcome before they will be widely available in the light duty passenger vehicle market; these include vehicle cost, hydrogen cost, hydrogen storage and delivery, and competition with other technologies such as EVs. The electrical grid already exists for plug-in vehicles, and current trends show that plug-in vehicles are quickly becoming the dominant alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles. As of August 2021, 11,000 fuel cell vehicles have been sold in the U.S., compared to more than two million plug-in EVs.

Question 14

Is the quiet nature of electric vehicles a hazard?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Electric vehicles aren’t silent, and at parking-lot speeds they make as much noise from various fans, pumps and tire noise as most modern internal-combustion engine vehicles. At high speeds, the wind and tire noise is comparable to any car.

Question 15

Do plug-in vehicles emit electromagnetic radiation?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Data suggest there are no harmful electromagnetic emissions from plug-in cars. There is no broad agreement in the United States over what level of exposure to electromagnetic fields may constitute a health hazard, and there are no federal standards for allowable exposure levels. A National Institutes of Health report shows (on page 41) that electric cars and buses have lower electromagnetic fields than conventional gasoline cars, similar to findings reported in a 1999 study by the U.S. Department of Energy. (Editor's note: the above linked documents seem to be unavailable. We are working on updating these links)

Question 16

Does it make sense to put solar panels or wind turbines on an EV?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Putting solar photovoltaics (PV) directly on EVs would be nice but likely not adequate. Most solar panels would add too much weight. Some newer, lighter and flexible PV technology could generate power for interior climate control or minor tasks, but not enough to power a car a significant distance. Furthermore, cars are often parked in garages or under carports, where sunlight won't reach. Likewise, windmills on EVs don't make sense. The drag they create reduces efficiency, necessitating more energy to run the car. However, EVs can be charged with electricity that is generated from solar panels and wind turbines. What about putting stationary solar panels on your house or business? That is a great idea. Fixed panels can be set up so that they're not obstucted, and angled optimally to the sun. And fixed wind turbines can work wonderfully as well.

Question 17

Where do batteries end up? In landfills? Or recycled?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Vehicle batteries have an excellent recycling record that will get even better with plug-in vehicles. Every car in the world has a lead-acid battery. Even with its low value as scrap, the national recycling rate for lead-acid batteries is about 98 percent. Plug-in vehicles mostly use lithium ion, which is much more valuable than lead. It’s illegal to dispose of these batteries in a landfill, and their inherent value will ensure that they are recycled. Some car makers are exploring “second-life” applications for used EV batteries as well. Learn more about batteries' impact on the environment in our Ask the EV Experts video.

Question 18

How often do you have to replace the batteries?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Not for many years. GM and Nissan offer warranties covering eight years or 100,000 miles of driving on the lithium-ion batteries in the Volt or the Leaf. Plug In America is conducting surveys of battery life among EV drivers. You can learn about survey results or participate here.

Question 19

Can I charge a plug-in car with solar or wind power?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

The cleaner the power, the cleaner the car. Using solar photovoltaics (PV) at your home or business makes even more sense with a plug-in car. The investment in solar panels pays off faster when the solar power is not only replacing grid electricity but also replacing much more expensive gasoline. EVs typically can'travel 3-4 miles (or more) per kWh of electricity. If you drive 12,000 miles per year, you will need 3,000-4,000 kWh. Depending on where you live, you will need a 1.5kW-3kW PV system to generate that much power using about 150-300 square feet of space on your roof. Utility credits for the energy generated from solar panels during the day can offset the cost of charging the car at night. If solar PV isn't feasible at your home, find out if your utility offers a green energy option. To find a solar installer in your area to provide a free quote on the cost of going solar, see The Solar Nerd.

Question 20

Will plug-in cars lead to more coal and nuclear power plants?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

No. The existing electric grid's off-peak capacity for power generation is sufficient to power 73 percent of commutes to and from work by cars, light trucks, SUVs and vans without building a single new power plant, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The existing nighttime electricity could also be stored in plug-in vehicles and retrieved during peak-demand hours through vehicle-to-grid technology for use by the grid, helping to meet society's daytime power needs. The U.S. power grid is also getting cleaner every year as affordable renewable energy continues to replace coal plants.

Question 21

What about overall emissions, including the car and the power plant?

pluginamerica-k8 · Accepted Answer

Even today, with more than 35 percent of electricity in the U.S. coming from dirty coal plants, plug-in cars reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and most other pollutants compared with other vehicle types. You don't need to take our word for it -- read the emissions summary of more than 40 studies, analyses, and presentations on this topic. The Union of Concerned Scientists report, Cleaner Cars from Cradle to Grave, also demonstrates that EVs are cleaner than gas cars. EVs also allow you to use 100 percent clean, renewable electricity from sources such as the sun or wind, eliminating greenhouse gas emissions entirely. EVs get cleaner as the electric grid gets cleaner - gas cars only get dirtier.

Question 22

What kind of home charging station should I get?

John U'Ren · Accepted Answer

Every electric vehicle (EV) comes with a 120v charge cord. These units will slowly recharge the car, and are fine for use if you don’t drive more than 20 - 40 miles per day. For many EV owners, this is sufficient for daily commuting and charging needs. Many EV owners purchase a Level 2 240v car charger (EVSE) for their home charging needs. These higher-powered units will allow their car to fully recharge in a few hours to overnight. The manufacturer usually recommends a certain brand, and PlugStar lists additional chargers available according to EV model. Check with your dealership for the manufacturer’s suggested charging unit model.

Question 23

What does it cost to install a home charger?

John U'Ren · Accepted Answer

A typical 240V installation without complications can range from $250 to $600. Just like any home improvement, the cost of installing your home charger can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, such as age of home and the distance from your service panel to the charger. For more information on your specific installation cost and requirements, please consult a qualified electrician.

Question 24

Can I charge when it's raining or snowing?

John U'Ren · Accepted Answer

Yes. This equipment is designed for use in these weather conditions. Electric vehicle charging equipment is designed to be perfectly safe in all weather conditions. Charging is generally much safer than pumping gas.

Question 25

Which electric vehicles can tow?

Noah Barnes · Accepted Answer

As of February 2020, the only fully electric vehicles that are recommended for towing are the Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron. There are larger plug-in hybrids that may fit your needs, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, and Range Rover PHEV.

With more electric trucks and SUVs launching in the next one to two years, additional options for towing will soon be available.

Question 26

Will DC fast charging degrade my battery faster?

Silvia Gonzalez · Accepted Answer

DC fast charging is slightly more taxing on an EV battery than level 1 (120v) or level 2 (240v). While all batteries experience some degradation over time, using DC fast charging in moderation is unlikely to have noticeable negative effects on your battery.

Question 27

How do I get a Level 2 charging station installed?

Silvia Gonzalez · Accepted Answer

On PlugStar.com/chargers, you can compare charging stations and links to sites where you can purchase. Once you find a charger that best fits your needs, we recommend contracting a licensed electrician to install your charging station. The licensed electrician will need the model number of your charger and the plug type. This will let the electrician know what amperage panel needs to be installed, to support the power requirements of your charger. Chargers deliver a high level of electricity for many continuous hours every day. Therefore, it is extremely important that it is installed correctly. Many utilities and state/local governments offer incentives for installing charging stations. Visit PlugStar.com/incentives or contact your local electric utility for more information.

Question 28

Are electric cars reliable?

Silvia Gonzalez · Accepted Answer

Yes! Electric cars are the most dependable vehicles on the market. They will last as long or longer than gas cars with less regular maintenance required. Since there are significantly fewer moving parts in an EV compared to a gas car, less ongoing preventative maintenance is needed. If they’re a BEV (battery electric vehicle), they require no oil changes, tune-ups, or new spark plugs. If they’re a PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric), the maintenance on the gas generator is usually negligible. Brake life is extended on all EVs thanks to regenerative braking, where the motor is used to slow the car, recapturing the kinetic energy and storing it back in the battery. Electric motors themselves are extremely simple and durable, and will last hundreds of thousands of miles. Electric cars are also more likely to start in the freezing cold than a gas car.

Question 29

How can I take advantage of the federal EV tax credit?

Silvia Gonzalez · Accepted Answer

The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for purchasers of plug-in vehicles. Those who lease an EV cannot take the credit directly, as it goes to the financial company that owns the vehicle, but some companies pass this credit along to the lessee through lower lease payments. Because this incentive is a tax credit and not a rebate, your credit will be deducted from your taxes at the end of the year. To claim the tax credit, use IRS Form 8936 when filing your taxes at the end of the year. Please consult with your tax advisor. The tax credit phases out for each automaker once they have sold 200,000 qualified EVs. As of August 2019, Tesla vehicles are only eligible for 25% of the credit through December 31, 2019. GM vehicles (including Chevy Bolt) are eligible for 50% of the credit through September 30, 2019, then 25% of the credit through March 31, 2020.

Upcoming Events

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Plug In to the Future – Get Charged about Electric Vehicles!

March 3, 2018 @ 10:00 am - 1:30 pm

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Upcoming Events

Events

Plug In to the Future – Get Charged about Electric Vehicles!

March 3, 2018 @ 10:00 am - 1:30 pm