When considering long-distance travel, the costs of fast charging for electric vehicles (EVs) can be compared to gasoline prices in several ways.
Fast Charging Costs
Fast charging, typically done using Level 3 or DC Fast Chargers, costs approximately $0.25 to $0.79 per kWh. A full charge usually ranges from $10 to $30, depending on the charging station and your vehicle’s battery size. For a 100-mile journey, the cost can be between $14 and $21 when fast-charging a Tesla Model Y, for example.
Gasoline Costs
For gasoline-powered vehicles, the cost per 100 miles varies based on fuel efficiency and gasoline prices. For instance, a 28-mpg compact SUV would cost about $10.96 per 100 miles at an average U.S. gasoline price of $3.07.
Comparison
- Fast Charging vs. Gasoline: While fast charging is convenient for long-distance travel, it generally costs more per mile compared to at-home EV charging but can be competitive with gasoline prices, especially for less fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Efficiency and Economy: EVs often offer better overall fuel efficiency and lower operating costs when charged at home. However, for long trips where fast charging is necessary, the costs can approach or slightly exceed gasoline costs, depending on the specific charging rates and vehicle efficiency.
Long-Term Considerations
Over time, EVs can provide significant savings on operating costs due to lower electricity costs at home and the generally lower maintenance compared to gasoline vehicles. However, if relying heavily on public fast charging for daily use, the costs can rise significantly.
Strategy for Minimizing Costs
To keep costs down, using apps to plan efficient routes that leverage lower-cost charging options (like supermarket or hotel chargers) can be beneficial. Additionally, charging at home as much as possible helps reduce reliance on more expensive public fast charging.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-the-costs-of-fast-charging-compare-to-gasoline-prices-for-long-distance-travel/
