Electric Vehicles
Plug-in electric vehicles (or PEVs) are an exciting option for drivers. With new models hitting the market, you may have questions for WPS.
- What is a PEV?
- How do you charge a PEV?
- Why choose a PEV?
- Can WPS support PEV charging?
- Do I need to contact WPS if I'm buying a PEV?
What is a PEV?
A plug-in electric vehicle (or PEV) is a car that uses electricity as fuel. Batteries in the car store electricity and use the power to operate on public roadways. When the batteries run low, the car can be recharged.
There are several types of PEVs. Battery electric vehicles (or BEVs) use only electricity to run. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (or PHEVs) use both electricity and gasoline. And extended range electric vehicles (or EREVs) have either a small combustion engine or another source to resupply the batteries when they get low.
You can learn more about PEVs and how they work from the Electric Drive Transportation Association.
How do you charge a PEV?
PEV owners have two choices when charging their vehicles:
- Level 1 charging uses a regular 120-volt house outlet. A 15- or 20-amp rated circuit is needed on the outlet where the car will be charged. Most PEVs can be charged this way in 8 to 10 hours.
- Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt circuit like the kind used for an electric stove or central air conditioner. A licensed electrician can advise PEV owners on the electrical circuit requirements for this type of charging. Level 2 charging takes half the time of Level 1 charging.
- Rapid charging is a newer charging method in the United States. National standards for rapid charging are still being developed. But in general, this method uses higher voltage, such as 480 volts, for charging. That brings charging time down to 10-45 minutes.
Why choose a PEV?
PEVs are good for the environment, because they produce fewer pollutants than standard vehicles. They cost less to operate than gasoline-fueled vehicles. And they reduce our reliance on foreign oil supplies.
Can WPS support PEV charging?
Yes! PEVs use the same electricity we provide to your home or business now. Just be sure you have the correct electrical circuit (see "How do you charge a PEV?"). And let us know you have a PEV, so we can keep things working smoothly for you and your neighbors.
Do I need to contact WPS if I'm buying a PEV?
Yes, please contact us if you're buying a PEV. We can ensure that charging your PEV won't affect your neighbors' power in any way.