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By Raj Naini
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is here, and while Tesla has paved the way with its widespread and relatively affordable charging network, many EV owners face challenges when using public charging stations. High EV charging prices at non-Tesla networks are creating significant barriers for customers, leading to a less-than-ideal experience.
As an EV enthusiast and Chief Technology Officer of EnergyBot, I want to share my personal experiences and shed light on this pressing issue.
One of the first questions potential EV owners ask is, "How much does it actually cost to charge an EV?" While the answer varies, the costs can be surprisingly high, especially when using networks other than Tesla. For instance, I've experienced charging sessions that cost nearly double what I would pay at a Tesla Supercharger. This discrepancy is not just about the money—it's about the frustration and inconsistency it brings to the EV experience.
Unfortunately, most public charging networks don't make it easy to find out their pricing until you get there. For example, you often have to install an app and sign up for an account or plan to know the pricing details. While sites like Plugshare can sometimes help, their reliability is inconsistent, adding another layer of frustration for EV users.
Another common question is, "Is EV charging cheaper than gas?" Generally, yes—charging an EV is cheaper than filling up a gas tank, especially when you charge at home. Home charging typically costs around $10 for a full charge. However, the savings are less pronounced when using public charging networks. For example, a recent charge at a Tesla Supercharger cost $30, which is 2.5 to 3 times more than charging at home. Public charging networks can be even more expensive than Tesla's, further increasing costs. While EVs are cheaper than gas when you charge at home, relying on public charging networks—either because you don’t have a home setup or when traveling—can eat into the cost benefits of owning an EV.
So, why do networks like EVgo charge $40 for a single charging session? The answer lies in the pricing structure. Many non-Tesla networks have higher per-kWh rates and additional fees. EVgo, for example, charges per kWh and includes a session fee. These costs add up quickly, making what should be a straightforward process unnecessarily expensive. As someone who frequently travels for business, I've found these unexpected costs frustrating. It also stops me from relying solely on public charging networks.
The high prices can often be attributed to peak demand pricing structures. But what does this mean for the average customer? Peak demand pricing refers to a pricing strategy where the cost of electricity increases during periods of high usage. For instance, during hot summer afternoons when many air conditioners are running, the demand for electricity spikes. To manage this increased demand, utility companies raise the prices.
Public charging networks like EVgo and Electrify America pass these higher costs on to the consumer. When you plug in your EV during these peak times, you're not just paying for the electricity you use; you're also paying a premium because it's a high-demand period. This can significantly drive up the cost of a charging session, making it much more expensive than charging at home during off-peak hours.
Understanding the cost breakdown can help you manage expectations and plan better. Here's a typical cost structure at an EVgo station, for example:
These high costs and complex pricing structures are significant barriers to broader EV adoption. For many potential EV owners, the idea of paying more for public charging than for gas is a deal-breaker. The inconsistency between different networks also adds to the confusion, making it difficult for new EV owners to navigate the charging landscape.
Weather and infrastructure can also throw a wrench in EV charging at public stations. During a scorching summer road trip, I faced overheating charging cables at multiple locations. Instead of a quick charge, I had to wait for hours for the overheated cables to work and make additional stops, causing me to change my travel plans completely.
Reliability was another issue. Some charging stations were broken or not working at all, making it tough to find a dependable charger. These problems made my trip longer and more stressful.
Improving infrastructure and weather resilience at public charging stations is crucial for making EV charging easier and more accessible for everyone.
As someone who is invested in the future of EVs, I've learned a few strategies to mitigate these costs:
High EV charging prices at networks other than Tesla are a significant challenge for many EV owners. These costs create barriers and can lead to a frustrating experience. By understanding the pricing structures and using some of the strategies I’ve shared to manage costs, EV owners can navigate these challenges more effectively.
As the Chief Technology Officer of EnergyBot, I am committed to advocating for fair and transparent pricing in the EV charging industry. Together, we can work towards a future where EV ownership is accessible and affordable for everyone.
Below, we break down the costs of charging different EV models to give you a clearer picture:
| Make and Model of EV | Energy Needed to Charge Battery | Cost of Full Battery Charge | Distance Range | Per Mile Charging Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 Standard | 70 kWh | $11.33 | 272 miles | 4.2 cents |
| Tesla Model 3 Long Range | 88 kWh | $14.25 | 341 miles | 4.2 cents |
| Tesla Model 3 Performance | 94 kWh | $15.22 | 315 miles | 4.8 cents |
| Make and Model of EV | Energy Needed to Charge Battery | Cost of Full Battery Charge | Distance Range | Per Mile Charging Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf S | 45 kWh | $7.29 | 149 miles | 4.9 cents |
| Nissan Leaf SV Plus | 65 kWh | $10.52 | 212 miles | 5 cents |
| Make and Model of EV | Energy Needed to Charge Battery | Cost of Full Battery Charge | Distance Range | Per Mile Charging Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range | 66 kWh | $10.69 | 220 miles | 4.9 cents |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE | 88 kWh | $14.25 | 303 miles | 4.7 cents |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 SEL | 88 kWh | $14.25 | 303 miles | 4.7 cents |
| Make and Model of EV | Energy Needed to Charge Battery | Cost of Full Battery Charge | Distance Range | Per Mile Charging Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron | 86 kWh | $13.92 | 242 miles | 5.8 cents |
| Audi Q4 e-tron | 86 kWh | $13.93 | 265 miles | 5.3 cents |
Charging costs vary widely but can range from $10 at home to $40 at public stations like EVgo.
Generally, yes. However, public charging networks can sometimes diminish these savings.
EVgo’s high costs are due to per-kWh rates, session fees, and potential idle fees.
EVgo’s charging rates vary by region and are subject to changes. Currently, EVgo charges between $0.40 and $0.50 per kWh, plus a $1 session fee and $2.99 transaction fee for credit card payments.
Electrify America’s EV charging prices vary by station and state. An average rate as of 2023 is $0.48 per kWh, plus session fees.
The cheapest way to charge an EV is at home, especially during off-peak hours. Though there's an initial investment for a home charger, it saves money over time compared to public stations.
