Electric Revolution: Growing Number of Americans Embrace EVs in 2023
A survey we conducted in 2023 found a growing affinity among US owners for electric vehicles.
The reason for the switch to electric vehicles (or EVs) shouldn’t come as much of a shock to commuters and frequent drivers who are used to gas-powered cars.
Finally, gas powered cars have some dangers that cannot be ignored, such as:
- Rising gas prices
- Offensive exhaust fumes
- Thorough vehicle maintenance
Electric vehicles offer a new alternative. Instead of running on gasoline, EVs are charged via an EV charger that can be located at work or, more conveniently, at home.
In fact, the idea of having a handy EV charger at home could explain our survey results.
What Our Survey Says about EVs in 2023
We recently conducted a survey of over 2,000 US adults to gauge sentiment toward various electronic services.
Specifically, the survey found that electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular among American owners. According to the results, 20% are expected to upgrade or purchase electric vehicles in 2023. Unfortunately, only 15% of all respondents indicated that their workplace has electric vehicle charging stations.
Companies are slowly increasing the number of available electric vehicle chargers. But until such chargers become more widespread, many would prefer to take matters into their own hands and have one installed at home.
Around 80% of respondents did not feel comfortable installing an EV charger themselves at home – and with good reason. Electric cars have not been around for long and many consumers are unfamiliar with the intricacies of installing a one-person charging station.
In addition, many people shy away from taking electrical projects into their own hands. And installing an electric vehicle charging station comes with the responsibility of evaluating the entire electrical system to ensure proper installation.
Your local electrician at Poss Electric can simplify this process by providing a safe and efficient EV charger installation for your home.
How to Prepare Your Home for an EV
Before you jump on the savings path by buying an electric vehicle, follow these tips to prepare your home:
- Know Your Panel: Some older panel will require an upgrade to support your EV charger. A licensed electrician can assess the need for a new panel and upgrade if necessary.
- Hire an electrician to install a separate circuit for your charger: You must install a dedicated circuit for your electric vehicle charger to avoid the risk of fire.
- Find out about the types of electric vehicle chargers: There are different charging levels for your electric vehicle – literally. EV chargers come in Tier 1 and Tier 2. Which type you choose depends largely on how often and how far you travel.
- Tidy up your garage: The last thing you need is for your new vehicle to be surrounded by clutter and chaos. The saying “out with the old, in with the new” really applies here!
Other Ways You Can Amp Up Your Home in 2023
As well as carefully preparing to install your electric car charger at home, in our survey we identified four other ways you can ensure you adopt safe and energy efficient habits to save time, risk and money.
1. Invest in whole-home protection
In the survey, only 13% of respondents had comprehensive protection for their home.
Did you know that without comprehensive home protection, a power surge can potentially destroy everything plugged into your home’s electrical outlets? Whole-home protection helps protect your expensive and trendy gadgets and devices. Merely buying a surge protector for the power strip is not always enough. You could save yourself thousands of dollars and headaches by scheduling an online appointment with a licensed electrician Woodstock, GA for whole-home protection.
2. Upgrade your switchboards
In our survey, 44% said improved energy efficiency and cost savings were the most attractive benefits of upgraded switchboards.
Upgrading will save you money in the long run by reducing energy costs. In addition, the improved, more efficient panels also ensure more security in your home.
3. Get a backup generator
Only 23% of US homeowners surveyed said they had a backup generator.
Standby generators help you ensure safety and comfort in the event of a power outage. Still, we found that 77% of respondents didn’t have one, leaving them with non-functional appliances and devices in the event of a power outage.
4. Install a carbon monoxide detector
Fortunately, 80% of respondents agreed on the importance of carbon monoxide alarms in homes.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. Installing a carbon monoxide alarm is the surest way to ensure you and your family are not at risk.
FAQ About Electric Vehicles
- What are the advantages of owning an electric vehicle (EV)?
Electric vehicles offer several benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel costs, quieter operation, potential government incentives, and reduced maintenance requirements.
- Are electric vehicles cheaper to run compared to traditional vehicles?
Yes, operating an EV tends to be more cost-effective. Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, so recharging an EV can be significantly cheaper than refueling a conventional vehicle. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts, reducing maintenance costs.
- How far can an electric vehicle travel on a single charge?
The range of an electric vehicle varies depending on the model and battery capacity. Modern EVs typically offer a range between 100 and 400 miles (160 to 640 kilometers) on a single charge. Advances in battery technology are continually increasing the range and efficiency of electric vehicles.
- Are charging stations readily available for electric vehicles?
The availability of charging stations is increasing rapidly. Many public spaces, such as shopping centers, parking lots, and highways, now provide charging infrastructure. Additionally, you can install a charging station at your home, allowing convenient overnight charging.
- Are electric vehicles reliable?
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, making them generally more reliable. They require less maintenance because they don’t have components like oil filters, spark plugs, or timing belts that need regular replacement.
- Can I charge an electric vehicle at home?
Yes, you can charge an EV at home. You can install a dedicated charging station or use a regular power outlet, depending on your vehicle’s charging capabilities. Charging at home provides convenience and ensures your vehicle is ready to go when you need it.
Call Poss Electric for EV Charger Installation and More
Take charge of your and your family’s safety. Contact the professionals at Poss Electric for your residential EV charger installation or other electrical upgrade today. Give our electrician a call at (770) 741-1878 to make sure you’re safely enjoying your home
