EV Charging

As electric vehicles become more common in our region, it's important to understand the charging options available and which works best for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a new EV owner or considering an electric vehicle, we’ll help you navigate the current infrastructure for owning a vehicle in Big Sky.

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How It Works

Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in electric hybrids have an electric motor that uses electricity stored in a battery. According to the Department of Energy, most EV owners do more than 80% of their charging at home because it is the most affordable and convenient option, especially if they utilize solar power.

Note that it’s always best to avoid charging during peak electric hours and that charging speed varies based on the voltage of your charging source and the current charge of your vehicle. Below are the basics of EV Charging.

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EV Charging Speed

Level 1 Charging 

• Uses a regular household outlet (120-volt plug).
• Good for overnight use, charing about 20% of batter to cover driving needs under 50 miles.
• Charging cord is often provided with the car.
• Can take over 24 hours to deliver an optimal battery charge of 80%.
• Generally used for emergency recharging and often kept in the vehicle’s trunk.
• Charges one vehicle at a time (the plug is not interchangeable with other appliances).

Level 2 Charging 

• The fastest way to charge your EV is at home.
• Can be plugged into a 240-volt plug or hardwired into the house. 
• Delivers an optimal battery charge of 80% in 4 to 5 hours.
• Convenient, easy to use, reliable, and saves money.
• The cost of equipment can range from $500 to $1200, and installation varies from $800 to $2000 depending on installation method, complexity, and experienced labor fees.

Level 3 Charging

Level 3 charging stations, also known as direct current (DC) fast charging, can deliver a full charge in about 30 minutes. They require a commercial supply that surpasses what’s available at home and can be found on highways, near gas stations, commercial businesses and in city centers.

• Requires an energy level that exceeds residential capabilities.
• Can deliver a full charge in 15-60 minutes, depending on available charging speeds, vehicle type, and current vehicle charge.
• Installation costs are typically thousands of dollars.

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Equip your home with a Level 2 charging station.

If you plan on charging your EV at home, equip your house with a level 2 charger. As more EV options become available, chargers increasingly vary. Some home charging stations are better suited for colder climates than other models on the market. It is important to choose a charging station that best suits your vehicle, needs, and lifestyle.

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Charging at Home

Plug your vehicle in as soon as you get home. Schedule a departure time and cabin temperature. Your vehicle can then optimize for preconditioning based on your departure time, minimizing power use and optimizing range and acceleration.

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Cold Weather Battery Range

Lithium ions flow through a liquid electrolyte to produce electricity to make the car run. But when it’s cold, the electrons flow slower than they do in optimal temperatures, preventing the battery from absorbing as much electricity and decreasing travel range by about 25% when driving and up to 50% with frequent stops and cabin heating. This means slower charging capabilities and more trips to the charger. How can you live in a cold climate and drive an EV?

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If you plan effectively, keep your car charged, and know where the nearest charger is, you should be able to complete your daily trips without an issue. Here are some tips for maximizing your EV’s range in the winter:

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Precondition Your Battery 

Warming up your battery before you go to charge or travel will improve the charging speed in cold temperatures, extend your car's battery life, and improve its driving range. Allow for about 20-30 minutes of preconditioning. 

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Find EV Charging Locations Near You

Need help finding charging stations near you, check out PlugShare. It includes detailed maps, user reviews, and station compatibility information. Whether you’re planning a road trip or your route to work, PlugShare makes finding the right charger easy.

If you're interested in battery source power, please check out our energy storage section here.

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