EV Charging 101
EV Charging Stations in Albertville, AL
We get it — upgrading to anelectric vehicleafter using a gas-powered one can seem like a big leap. But the team here atSand Mountain Toyotacan help you have a seamless switch from start to finish! While there are many perks to driving an EV, the main advantage is skipping a trip to the gas pump altogether. Electric vehicles are still rather new to the market, so we understand if you have some questions like, how and where do you charge an EV? We’ve answered all that and more down below. Keep scrolling to learn more!
What is an EV Charging Station?
When you’re considering purchasing an EV, it’s only natural that you want to seek a convenient way to charge it for your daily travels. Luckily for you, EV charging stations are more popular than ever before. Many public charging stations will require you to pay via credit or debit card (unless it’s a free charging station) similar to how gas pumps work. Don’t forget to also consider utilizing one of the helpful apps that are available that track charging progress and will send you notifications once your car is finished charging. Some apps even help you locate the closest charging station that’s in your vicinity.
Charging Options
Before you finalize your EV purchase, it’s vital that you understand the variety of charging options that are available: Level 1, Level 2 and DC Fast Charging.
Level 1 Charger
Level 1 chargers are the most common amongst residential areas and require 120-volt AC outlets. When using this type of charger, we recommend plugging in your ride overnight as it can even take up to 40-50 hours or more to charge an all-electric vehicle from zero percent to 80 percent.*
Level 2 Charger
Level 2 chargers are the more popular choice as this alternative charges faster than Level 1 chargers. In roughly four hours, your EV will be charged from empty to 80 percent with a Level 2 charger.* Plus, you can also charge plug-in hybrid models with a Level 2 charger.
DC Fast Chargers
DC Fast Chargers are also known as Level 3 chargers, and you can typically find them at public charging stations. It makes sense that these are the ones used for public charging as DC Fast Chargers can get your ride to an 80 percent charge within one hour.* This is definitely your best option if you’re ever in a pinch and need some extra juice for your ride.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Albertville, AL
There are more and more public charging stations popping up around Albertville, AL. This allows convenient access to outlets whenever you’re on the go. If you ever aren’t sure where a charging station is in your area, simply visitthis linkto find them! All you have to do is input your location and you’ll see where the closest stations are to you.
It’s no question that Toyota EVs are the way to go if you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint and reap the plethora of benefits an electrified ride provides. Are you ready to make the switch? Swing by Sand Mountain Toyota and explore our EV lineup today!
If you have any questions on EV charging stations or a new Toyota EV on our lot, contact us today or stop by our dealership at9167 US Highway 431, Albertville, AL 35950. We look forward to serving our customers near Boaz, Guntersville, Scottsboro, Rainbow City and Gadsden.
*Find more information on charging EVs at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s websitehere.