Certified CenterAverage Costs of Charging An EV
Considering a BMW electric car (EV)? Imagine bypassing gas stations forever, saving enough on fuel to potentially offset your EV's initial cost. Before exploring our diverse EV selection, delve into our guide on average charging costs—at home and public stations—to fully prepare for your electric journey.
Charging from Home
Charging your EV at home, whether with a standard outlet or a dedicated charging station, is usually the easiest way to keep it powered up. But how do you figure out the cost? It's all about kilowatt-hours (kWh). As of November 2020, the average electricity cost in the U.S. was about 13 cents per kWh.
Want to know how much it costs to charge your EV? It’s simple—just multiply the cost per kWh by your car’s battery capacity. For example, the 2022 Nissan Leaf has a 40 kWh battery. With the national average electricity rate of 13 cents per kWh, it costs about $5.20 to fully charge the Leaf. While EVs vary, the formula stays the same: cost per kWh x battery capacity = your charging cost.
Charging at a Public Station
Public EV charging stations are popping up everywhere, giving drivers the freedom to hit the road without worrying about finding a place to recharge. While charging at these stations can cost more than plugging in at home, the convenience is hard to beat. Most stations come with user-friendly apps that make paying a breeze. Interestingly, many charge based on time spent recharging rather than the electricity used, offering a unique approach to keeping your EV powered up.
Many EV manufacturers now offer free subscriptions to at least one public charging network with every new purchase. Some networks go a step further, providing customers with discounted fees or unlimited access. As EVs become more popular, public charging stations are expanding rapidly to meet the demand—this trend shows no signs of slowing down.
When to Recharge Your EV
Did you know the time you charge your EV can impact costs? Charging during “off-peak” hours—typically between midnight and 6 A.M.—could save you money. In contrast, electricity demand peaks around 6 P.M., when people are back home and powering up their devices. Timing your EV charging right can make a difference!
Many utility companies offer reduced rates during off-peak hours, meaning big savings if you can optimize your charging schedule. Look for EVs with programmable charging capabilities, allowing you to precisely track and adjust charging to fit your needs.
Charge Your Way Into an Electric Future With BMW Niello of Sacramento Today
Experience the future of driving with electric cars—more advanced, convenient, and affordable than ever. Visit our dealerships in Sacramento, El Dorado Hills, or Carmichael, CA, and take one for a spin today.
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