Before You Purchase an EV

Important information if you are purchasing a plug-in electric vehicle (EV)

Electric vehicles offer an increasingly attractive option to reduce the cost of “filling up” and America’s dependency on foreign oil.

If you are considering the purchase of a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PEV) or an All-Electric vehicle (EV) we’ve listed links to several websites below that provide helpful information:

If you’ve decided an electric vehicle is right for you, you’ll also need to consider "what's the best way to charge your new car." Charging needs depend on a number of factors; such as vehicle type, driving distance, frequency between trips, etc...

Several residential charging options are currently available for electric vehicles:

Level 1 Charging:
Built into the vehicle and charged by connecting the vehicle supplied, specialized charging cord, to a standard 120-volt grounded outlet; on a circuit with sufficient load capacity. Charging time varies and typically takes as long as 8-16 hours to fully recharge a depleted battery.

Level 2 Charging:
Requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit; and purchase and installation of a Level 2 charging station. Consult with a licensed electrical contractor to determine specific requirements for your location and if your electrical panel can support the energy required. Charging times vary and typically takes as long as 2-8 hours to fully recharge a totally depleted battery.

For detailed information about electric vehicle charging options and items to consider for home charging; go to goelectricdrive.org and click on the link “Home Charging”; and/or contact the vehicle dealer or charger manufacturer.

Typical steps involved when installing a level 2 charging station in a home located in Blue Ridge Energy’s Service area:

Have a licensed electrical contractor determine if wiring upgrades are needed in the home to accommodate the level 2 charging station you’ve selected. Your contractor can provide an estimate of what any upgrades would cost.
If an upgrade is necessary; your contractor will need to arrange to obtain the necessary permit(s) from local government agencies.
Contact Jon Jacob before installing any type of electric vehicle Level 2 charging station. The Cooperative will determine if a distribution transformer and/or service upgrade is necessary.
Once any home wiring upgrades have been completed; your contractor will need to schedule final inspection(s) with local government agencies.