4 myths and misconceptions about EV Chargers

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are surrounded by misconceptions, misunderstandings, and myths, whether regarding the slow charging process or increasing the carbon footprint in the process. However, with modern EVs, it's time to debunk the myths surrounding EV chargers.

Myth #1: EV charging takes hours.

Starting with the basic misconception surrounding EV charging stations is that charging your electric vehicle takes hours. Well, this was a valid concern many years ago.

However, if you use a Level 2 (a dedicated AC powered EV charger) or Level 3 (a dedicated DC powered EV charger) charger, the EV charging process is rather seamless, with your EV being fully charged in 6-7 hours or with a fast DC charging station from 20%-80% in less than 30 minutes.

Think of it as if you were driving a traditional petrol or diesel vehicle (Internal Combustion Engine). Would the tank be empty in a day if you went to work, ran some errands, and went back home? No. Well, that's how EV batteries work too. Your battery wouldn't deplete to 0% in just a few hours. Most modern EVs have a driving range of 480-550km. 

Want to learn more about EV charging levels and types? Check out our blog EV 101 to know more. 

Myth #2: You can't leave your EV plugged in for hours. 

Another common misconception surrounding EVs is that your battery will deplete if you plug in your vehicle for hours. It might be the case if your car manual states so. However, keeping your EV plugged in has been recommended for keeping the vehicle's battery at the correct temperature and preventing battery degradation. 

Myth #3: Home charging is much more time-consuming than public charging. 

Yes, charging using a DC public charger will take less time than charging at home. However, with modern AC EV chargers in the market, it's been proven that you can charge your vehicle to 100% by leaving it plugged in overnight (when you aren’t waiting around) and be ready to use it by the next day. 

However, Level 3 DC high-voltage EV chargers, are generally installed in public high-traffic areas. These are ultimately faster than AC chargers (whether they are at home or in public) and can charge your vehicle from 20%-80% in less than 30 minutes. 

Alternatively, there are many Level 2, AC EV chargers in public locations, these speeds will be similar to charging speeds of a charger installed on a three-phase home and faster than chargers installed on a single-phase home.

In another blog article of ours, learn how EV charging systems work.

Myth #4: EV chargers are too expensive. 

Contrary to the myth, EV chargers are now a cost-efficient investment. 

The average price of an EV charging station goes from $600 to $2500, depending on the features and functionality required. Moreover, with government and local incentives to promote EVs and increased number of brands in the market, the financial overhead can be far lower than even 1-2 years ago.

However, it’s not just the cost of buying a charger, but also the install costs that you will need to consider. Install costs can differ dramatically depending on the location of your switch box and where you have the charger.

FIMER has different models of AC and DC charging kits that can suit your needs surrounding the EV charging stations. If you would like to know more about Residential EV Charging stations or Commercial EV charging stations.