How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car in Vancouver? As electric cars become increasingly popular, more people are considering switching from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). However, one of the biggest concerns for potential EV owners is the cost of charging their cars.
In this article, we will explore how much it costs to charge an electric car in Vancouver and what factors can affect the cost of charging. In addition, we will look at the cost of charging at home using a Level 2 home charger and the cost of using public charging stations, including fast charging stations located at shopping malls and along major highways.
Additionally, we will compare the cost of charging an electric car to fueling a gas-powered vehicle, considering both the price of gas and maintenance costs.
Types of Chargers
Here are some of the most common types of chargers for EVs:
Level 1 Charger
This is the most basic type of EV charger and can be plugged into a standard 120V outlet, such as the one you might use for a toaster or other small appliance. While it is the slowest type of charger, it can still add around 4-5 miles of range per hour of charging.
Level 2 Charger
This type of charger requires a 240V outlet and is the most common type of EV charger found in public charging points and installed in homes. A Level 2 charger can add around 25-30 miles of range per hour of charging to an electric vehicle.
DC Fast Charger
This type of charger, also known as a Level 3 charger, is the fastest way to charge an EV battery and is typically found at quick charging points along major highways and public locations such as shopping malls. DC fast chargers can add up to 80% of a battery’s charge in as little as 30 minutes.
Costs of Charging an Electric Vehicle
It is evident why electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity rapidly. With the cost of gas steadily increasing, it’s no surprise that people are looking for alternatives. EVs offer a convenient and eco-friendly solution. They’re also becoming more affordable as the technology advances. So, how much does it cost to charge an electric car in Vancouver?
Charging at Home
Most people consider charging their car at home using solar the most convenient option. According to current rates, charging your EV at home costs between $2-4 per 100km you drive. For an extra fee, it is possible to have a sub-meter installed if you desire to accurately monitor the quantity of electricity expended on charging your vehicle.
That’s much less than the cost of a tank of gas! Plus, you don’t have to worry about driving to a gas station or waiting in line to fill your tank.
Charging at Public Stations
What if you’re out and about and need to charge your car? That’s where the public charging station comes in.
In Vancouver, BC, BC Hydro is the primary provider of any public charging station for EVs. They offer three types of charging stations: 25 kW, 50 kW, and 100 kW.
At a 25 kW BC Hydro fast charging station, charging your EV costs 12.07 cents per minute. If you’re using a 50 kW charging station, it costs 21.13 cents per minute.
And if you’re charging at a 100 kW station, it costs 27.17 cents per minute. These rates are competitive with gas prices, making charging your EV on the go a breeze.
It’s important to note that these rates don’t include any mandatory parking fees that may be associated with using the station. However, compared to the cost of gas, charging your EV at a public station is still a great value.
If you’re looking for a more convenient option, install a BC Hydro EV charger at your workplace. This allows you to charge your EV while at work, so you don’t have to worry about finding a public charging station.
Conclusion – How Much Does Charging an Electric Car in Vancouver Cost?
In summary, if you’re considering purchasing an EV in Vancouver, BC, you have several vehicle charging options. Charging your car at home is the most convenient option for most people, and it’s also the most affordable. However, if you’re out and about, the public charging station from BC Hydro is a great option. With competitive rates and convenient locations, charging your EV on the go has never been this easy.
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