Electric vehicles (EVs) have become an important part of modern transportation as they offer a sustainable alternative to gasoline-powered cars. However, the concerns about the cost to charge EVs remain high as charging fees are a core component of EV operation costs. Moreover, new EV drivers may know less about EV charging.
Therefore, understanding the cheapest way to charge electric vehicles can not only help you save expenses but also make these sustainable vehicles even more popular.
Let’s have a look at different charging options to see what is the cheapest way to charge electric cars.
Home EV Charging
Charging at home remains the cheapest way to charge electric cars. Here are several ways to minimize home EV car charging costs.
1. EV Charging During Valley Electricity Price
Many regions offer time-of-use pricing, where electricity rates drop during off-peak hours. Charging during these periods, typically late at night or early in the morning, can lower costs substantially and also reduce the load of the power grid.
These hours provide you with electricity prices that are the lowest compared to all other times of the day, making these hours the cheapest way to charge electric cars at home.
2. EV Charging at Night
Nighttime charging helps to avoid power peaks when using other household appliances during the day, reducing pressure on the power grid. Meanwhile, the relatively low temperature at night is beneficial for battery heat dissipation, especially in summer.
3. Solar EV Charging
Homeowners with solar panel systems can further reduce charging costs by using self-generated electricity. During the day, photovoltaic systems can directly charge EVs after generating electricity, reducing dependence on grid power. In some areas, excess electricity can even be sold to the grid for additional income, making it the cheapest way to charge electric cars.
4. Slow EV Charging
Opting for Level 1 or Level 2 slow charging can be more economical than fast charging. First, Level 1 charging requires one charging cable that comes with the vehicle. Purchasing common Level 2 charging equipment is also relatively cheaper.
Second, slow charging draws lower power over an extended period, preventing excessive electricity demand spikes that could lead to higher rates. While this method takes longer, it is also a cheap way to charge electric cars for overnight charging at home.
Public EV Charging
If you want to find the cheapest way to charge electric cars in public, here are some top options:
1. Free Charging Station
Many EV car owners ask, “Where can I charge my electric car for free?” Some businesses, municipalities, and shopping centers offer free EV charging to attract customers. Though availability may be limited, taking advantage of these stations whenever possible can be the cheapest electric car charging in public.
2. Workplace Charging
Employers are increasingly installing EV charging stations at workplaces. Many companies provide free or subsidized charging to encourage EV adoption among employees. Free EV charging at work eliminates the need for a home charger and can significantly lower monthly electricity bills.
3. Retail Charging
Retail locations, such as supermarkets, malls, and restaurants, often provide cheap EV charging for customers. Some businesses offer EV charging discounts for members or those who spend a certain amount in-store.
Special Scenarios: Mobile Charging
In cases where access to charging stations is limited, portable EV chargers can be a viable and the cheapest way to charge electric cars. These EV chargers are small and portable, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicles anywhere right next to an electrical outlet. While they are not always the fastest charging method, they offer flexibility and cost saving in emergencies or remote locations.
What’s the Cheapest Electric Car Charging Method?
The following is a summary and analysis of the cheapest way to charge electric cars in daily commuting and long-distance travel scenarios:
1. For Daily Commuting
For drivers who primarily use their EVs for daily commutes, home charging during off-peak hours is the cheapest way to charge electric cars. In addition, if you have access to free EV charging in the workplace or retail, it can also be fully utilized to further reduce the cost of using the car.
2. For Long-Distance Travel
On road trips, public fast chargers are often necessary, but costs can be minimized by planning ahead. Some networks offer membership plans that reduce charging rates, and certain routes have free charging options at hotels or attractions. Checking charging station maps before a trip can help locate the cheapest way to charge electric cars.
Meanwhile, purchasing a portable EV charger, so that you can charge your EV anytime when there is a socket available.
Buy High-quality EV Chargers
If you find it difficult to seek free public charging stations, then buying a home EV charger or a portable EV charger can reduce charging costs while speeding up the charging speed.
EVB Charger offers charging stations designed for homes, workplaces, public locations, and commercial fleets. The wide product line makes them a recommended choice for both individual users and businesses seeking reliable solutions.
For residential users seeking home EV charging stations, EVB Charger provides AC EV chargers with sockets or charging guns. Their power ratings range from 3.7kW to 22kW, allowing EV drivers to charge their vehicles efficiently while taking advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours.
Their Portable+Wall-mounted 2 in 1 facilitate charging needs on the road. The portable and wall-mounted design, comprehensive protection functions, strict manufacturing standards, smart app control, and other features make it the cheapest way to charge electric cars on your travel.
Wrapping-Up
Charging an electric car at the lowest cost requires a strategic approach that takes into account charging location, electricity pricing, and available infrastructure. EVB Charger is one of the top EV charging station providers that is dedicated to designing powerful EV chargers for different usage scenarios. Visit their website to choose one for your EV!