How Convenient Are Electric Vehicle Chargers?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular as people look for eco-friendly and efficient modes of transportation. As the number of EVs on the road increases, so does the need for EV charging infrastructure. The Biden administration has set a goal of installing 500,000 chargers on American roads, and while California leads the way in charging infrastructure, many other states still lag behind.

EV charging convenience can vary greatly depending on where you are. While it may be easy to charge your car in California, it can be a major inconvenience in other parts of the country. In this article, we’ll explore the convenience of electric vehicle chargers and what it takes to make EV charging more accessible.

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California: The Model for EV Charging

California is a leader in EV adoption and charging infrastructure, with an estimated 2,900 places to charge within five miles of the route from Los Angeles to San Diego, according to the Department of Energy. This means that it’s easy to find a place to charge wherever you need to, whether it’s at the grocery store while getting coffee, or catching the sunset at the beach.

To demonstrate how easy it is to charge an EV in California, a reporter borrowed a Bolt from Chevrolet and drove 120 miles from Los Angeles to San Diego. She found charging stations quickly and arrived in San Diego with 95 miles left in the battery.

The Challenge of EV Charging Infrastructure

While California has made great strides in making EV charging infrastructure accessible, other states have a long way to go. In Houston, Texas, for example, finding a charging station can be a major inconvenience. A reporter driving from Houston to Austin found charging stations scarce, and the trip turned out to be more challenging than expected.

Texas is one of the most charging-ready states, but there are still many areas where EV charging infrastructure is lacking. The situation is even worse in other parts of the country, where charging stations can be few and far between.

The Need for More EV Charging Infrastructure

As more people switch to electric cars, the demand for EV charging infrastructure will only increase. The Biden administration’s plan to install 500,000 chargers on American roads is a step in the right direction, but there is still much work to be done.

To make EV charging more accessible, more charging stations need to be installed in more locations. This includes public charging stations like parking lots, shopping centers, and rest areas. In addition, businesses and homeowners can install private charging stations to make it more convenient for EV owners to charge their cars.