Learn More About Electric Vehicles and How They Work
Change is on the horizon as electric vehicles (EVs) continue to garner popularity worldwide and make an eco-friendly impact as they keep our world preserved for generations to come. With all the information relating to EVs online, it can be difficult to feel fully informed about this quickly changing landscape. To address this, we’re offering answers to some of the most common questions about driving an electric vehicle.
How do you charge an electric vehicle?
There are several convenient ways to charge your electric vehicle to ensure it’s always ready to accompany you throughout your day. Here are a few easy options:
Ford Mobile Charger:
You can purchase a Ford Mobile Charger which you can use with a standard 120-volt or 240-volt power outlet for swift charging of your Ford EV. Without this charger, using a standard power outlet significantly extends the charging time of your vehicle.
Home Charger:
You can purchase a Ford Connected Charge Station with 48 amps which allows for rapid charging of your Ford EV at home so you’re always ready for the workday ahead.
Charging Station:
If you find yourself out and about and in need of a quick charge, you can use a charging station anywhere near you. Charging stations allow you to quickly recharge your vehicle on the go so you can resume your commute without delay.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?
With a level one charger (a standard home power outlet), it may take 24+ hours to fully charge your vehicle. Upgrading to a level two charger (an advanced EV home charger) typically reduces charging time to between 12 to 18 hours for most EVs. With a level three charger (a fast-charging station), you can charge your EV to 80% battery capacity in as little as 30 minutes.
How far can you drive on a single charge?
The driving range on a single charge varies depending on your specific vehicle, as well as factors like battery size and motor configuration. For example, the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and E-Transit have an estimated range of 224 miles with a standard battery, and up to 312 miles with the extended-range battery.
How long do electric batteries last?
On average, EV batteries are estimated to last between 100,000 to 200,000 miles or 10 to 20 years, contingent upon factors such as weather conditions (such as extreme heat or cold), driving style, and charging habits. To maximize the longevity of your battery, charge your EV mainly at home and keep the battery between 20% and 90% capacity at all times. Reserve charging to 100% only for long road trips. Ford provides an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty to safeguard your battery against any issues that may arise during the first eight years.
How is the current EV charging infrastructure?
The United States currently offers over 56,000 EV charging stations and 148,000 charging ports, with plans underway to expand this infrastructure even further in the future. In Washington alone, there are nearly 2,000 charging stations and over 4,000 charging ports available. With ongoing infrastructure development, charging your EV anytime, anywhere will become increasingly convenient. However, it’s important to locate charging infrastructure and plan your route carefully, especially on longer trips.
What kinds of electric vehicles are there?
Hybrid:
Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions all at an affordable price. They utilize regenerative braking to recapture energy and recharge the electric motor’s battery, making them both a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. Hybrid vehicles are an ideal choice for drivers looking for the advantages of electric driving without the need to locate EV charging infrastructure or deal with the high costs associated with owning an EV.
Plug-In Hybrid:
Plug-in Hybrid vehicles blend elements of both hybrid and EV technology by utilizing gasoline and electric motors. They offer a longer electric range compared to traditional hybrids. Once the electric battery is used and needs to be recharged, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to using the gasoline-electric motors.
Fully Electric:
Fully electric vehicles operate solely on batteries as well an electric motor which offers driving ranges of 200 to 300+ miles on a single charge, depending on the vehicle and its setup. With their instant torque available upon pressing the accelerator, EVs typically provide enhanced performance as well as new luxury features and technology. EVs rely completely on electricity, meaning they can only be recharged at home or at a charging station near you.
What are the benefits of buying an EV?
Switching to an EV means escaping the burden of ever-increasing gas prices. With current EV charging rates, you can save up to $1,000 per year on fuel costs alone by making the switch to an electric vehicle.
Electric vehicles produce zero emissions, which is a powerful tool in the fight against climate change and sustaining our future for generations to come. Additionally, EV drivers enjoy the perk of using the HOV lane at all times which creates a shorter commute time.
The instant torque response upon pressing the accelerator pedal makes EVs an exhilarating choice for drivers seeking a thrilling adventure with every drive. Even with lower-powered electric motors, instant performance remains a standout feature. The Mustang Mach-E comes equipped with a high-powered electric motor and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, catering to those craving a bit more excitement.
With EV tax credits, buyers can save money and potentially receive a tax return of up to $7.5k, reducing the overall cost of their electric vehicle. Please note that EV tax credits are exclusively applicable for personal use vehicles and not vehicles used for business purposes. They can only be applied to new EVs, with used vehicles being ineligible for the credit.
Learn More About EV Tax Credits