EV Charging Need Grows
As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, so does the need for public EV charging stations. In the United States, there are now over 100,000 public charging stations available, and that number is only going to grow in the coming years.
If you’re thinking about buying an EV, it’s important to know where you can find public chargers. There are a few different ways to find EV charging stations, including:
- Online maps and directories: There are a number of websites and apps that can help you find public EV charging stations near you. Some popular options include PlugShare, Chargeway, and the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
- Your car’s navigation system: Many new EVs come with built-in navigation systems that can help you find charging stations. If yours does not, you may want to contact a professional installer for suggestions.
- Charging station signs: Public charging stations are typically marked with signs that indicate their availability.
Using a Public EV Charging Station
Once you’ve found a public charging station, it’s important to know how to use it. The process of charging an EV is relatively simple, but there are a few things you’ll need to do:
- Find a charging station that is compatible with your EV. There are a number of different types of charging connectors, so it’s important to make sure that the station you’re using has the right connector for your car.
- Plug your EV into the charging station.
- Select the charging rate you want to use. Most public charging stations offer a variety of charging rates, so you can choose the rate that best suits your needs.
- Wait for your EV to charge. The amount of time it takes to charge your EV will vary depending on the size of your battery and the charging rate you’re using.
Using public charging stations is a great way to keep your EV charged up on the go. With so many public charging stations available, it’s easy to find one near you, no matter where you’re going. Here are a few additional tips for using public charging stations:
- Plan ahead: If you know you’re going to be driving a long distance, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and find charging stations along your route. This will help you avoid getting stranded with a dead battery.
- Be patient: Charging an EV can take some time, so be patient and don’t rush. It’s also a good idea to bring a book or something else to do while you’re waiting.
- Be respectful: When using public charging stations, be respectful of other EV drivers. Don’t hog a charger if you don’t need it, and be sure to unplug your EV when you’re finished charging.
With a little planning and patience, using public charging stations is a great way to keep your EV charged up and on the road.