Electric Vehicle Public Charging Can Be Four Times More Expensive, Making EVs More Costly Than You Think
With growing concern about climate change, more and more people are turning to electric vehicles (EVs) as a way to reduce their carbon footprint. However, recent reports suggest that the total cost of EV ownership may be more than what most people think, especially when it comes to public charging.
According to a study by What Car?, which analyzed public charging infrastructure and pricing data, the cost of charging an electric vehicle at public stations can be up to four times more expensive than charging at home. The study found that the average cost of public charging was around 30 pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while the average cost of home charging was only 8 pence per kWh.
This means that charging a vehicle at home is not only more convenient, but also much cheaper. For example, charging a Tesla Model 3 overnight with a home charger would cost around £10.08, while the same charge at a public charging station would cost around £38.40 - almost four times more expensive.
The study also found that one of the biggest challenges for EV owners is the lack of off-street parking, which makes it difficult for them to take advantage of the cheaper home charging option. This is especially true for those who live in apartment buildings or urban areas, where access to off-street parking is limited.
The problem is compounded by the fact that the UK government’s subsidy for EV home chargers was scaled back in April of this year, making it even harder for some EV owners to afford a home charger.
In response to the findings, many experts are now calling for the government to invest more in public charging infrastructure, as well as offering more incentives for home charging. This could include providing more subsidies for home chargers, or implementing policies that encourage landlords to install chargers in apartment buildings and other shared spaces.
At the same time, there are concerns that the high cost of public charging may lead to “range anxiety” among EV owners, as they worry about running out of battery power while on the road. This fear could ultimately slow the adoption rate of EVs in the UK, erasing some of the environmental benefits that come with electrification.
In conclusion, while electric vehicles offer many benefits, including reducing carbon emissions and helping to combat climate change, the high cost of public charging remains a significant concern. As more people consider making the switch to EVs, it is important for both the public and private sector to work together to improve the accessibility and affordability of charging infrastructure, to make sustainable transportation more viable for all.