For Sustainability and a Greener Future – Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of tomorrow, so it’s important to talk about EV charging – a key part of an EV.
Switching from topping up gasoline to charging EVs has sparked some concerns among new EV drivers, especially those used to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Some myths about EV charging are that one has to take a long time to charge a car, the charge only provides limited kilometres, it is costly, and that it may harm the environment.
But are these concerns justified? Let’s debunk these myths and uncover the truth.
Myth 1: It takes a long time to charge an EV.
One of the biggest misconceptions regarding EV charging is the fact that it takes ages. The charging time differs with the charger and the battery, but the advancement in technology has made charging quicker.
Just like our phones have fast and slow charging, EVs also come in with varying charging capabilities. There exist two types of charging, which include; an AC charging and a DC charging. AC chargers range between 7.4 kW to 43 kW and typically takes 4 to 8 hours, this can be done during the night or while at work. DC chargers, however, are relatively much faster, with charging duration taking approximately 30-45 minutes to charge 80%. This means that charging is very fast and simple for anyone on the go.
For example, Tesla Superchargers can take a Model 3 from 10% to 80% charge in roughly half an hour. The BYD Seal can regain 80% of its capacity in 26 minutes, while the Polestar 2 recharges to 80% in as little as 35 minutes.
Myth 2: I’m afraid that my EV runs out of battery before reaching my destination.
Almost all the current EVs, including Tesla and BYD, have a battery capacity of 400-500 km in consistent use but which may slightly differ depending on a driver’s behaviour and cycles. At the very least, most electric vehicles are capable of travelling roughly 350 km which is adequate for multiple trips around Singapore.
In addition, the availability of charge points in parking lots is continuously increasing and that ensures that you can plan for long rides without worrying about the charging points.
Myth 3: Driving an EV is expensive and hard to maintain.
Surprisingly, the cost of recharging an EV is usually significantly lower than that of the comparable gasoline car. Furthermore, automobiles such as EVs are cheaper to maintain and repair when compared to ICE vehicles hence being cheaper in the long run.
To encourage a greener future, there are government incentives in Singapore for owning an to help to ease the burden of owning one:
- EV Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI): From January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025, new fully-electric cars and taxis will get a 45% rebate on the Additional Registration Fee (ARF), up to $15,000.
- Enhanced Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES): From January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, the VES Band A1 rebate for cars will stay at $25,000, while the Band A2 rebate will decrease to $5,000.
For more information about such incentives and grants, do check out the website here.
Myth 5: EV charging is bad for the environment.
Myth 5: EV charging is bad for the environment. People think that pollution from power plants makes EVs worse for the environment than gas cars. But EVs still have a smaller carbon footprint than gas vehicles even when you factor in the energy used to charge them. In areas with lots of solar and wind power, the benefits are even bigger. What’s more, a lot of charging stations these days use smart energy management to include renewable energy, like solar power. This further cuts down the carbon footprint of EV charging. So why not make the switch to an EV and help create a greener future?
Myth 6: I’m stuck parking in a specific spot because many EV chargers are fixed in place.
EV chargers aren’t all fixed in place. While many public chargers are stationary, Kelle Energy’s EPLVS charger is different. This charger uses movable energy storage and efficient charging, so you don’t need to stick to one parking spot.
The EPLVS comes with quick DC60 charging and stores 184 kWh of power. It can automatically move to where you are in the car park. Also, it integrates with solar panels to create eco-friendly energy for charging.
All in all, the EPLVS charger is highly convenient as it allows EV drivers to use chargers without being stuck in one place. Furthermore, it fulfills the purpose of being eco-friendly and supports sustainable driving.
Take a look at the Kelle Energy blog to stay up-to-date on the newest offers and news. Start your electric vehicle charging experience with Kelle Energy now.
