Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Washington DC
Visit Ourisman Automotive to Find Your EV!
Within today's automotive market, there are more EV options available than ever before! You can purchase an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid, and start reducing your carbon footprint, while also saving money in the long run. Switching to electric power, either partially or fully, will help lessen your dependence on gasoline in favor of the cheaper and more wallet-friendly electric charge! As an EV owner, one of the biggest changes in your driving habits will be making the switch from gas stations to electric charging stations. Luckily, these stations are becoming more and more popular throughout the country. In addition to the at-home chargers that you can install in your very own driveway or garage, you can also visit a public charging station to charge your vehicle on-the-go. Read on to learn more about the EV charging stations in the Washington, DC area!
Where are the EV Chargers Near Washington DC?
If you're living in or around Washington, DC, then you're in luck when it comes to EV charging stations! In and around Washington, DC, you can find over 500 charging stations available for public use. Having so many stations within a relatively small area makes it easy and convenient for drivers to charge up their vehicles while also navigating their busy schedules. The majority of the stations in the DC area are Level II chargers, which offer fast-charging options for most EVs. In terms of location, you'll find a high concentration of EV charging stations in Downtown Washington, DC, near Connecticut Ave or K Street. This makes sense, given the amount of traffic that tends to flow through this centralized area!
How Can I Use a Public EV Charger?
Using a public EV charging station is a simple and streamlined process, and will feel very similar to using a gas station! To use a public EV charger, start by learning what kind of charger your car can use. Public charging stations are compatible with most EVs, but it pays to be sure of what your vehicle needs while charging. Drive up to an empty charging spot, and plug the cable into your vehicle's charging port. It should make a clicking sound when it's fully plugged in. Your vehicle will communicate its SoC, or State of Charge, to the charging station, which tells the charger how much energy the vehicle needs. In general, your vehicle will charge fastest between 20-80%. When you're done charging, you'll pay for your purchase using the pin pad and touchscreen, just like you would at the gas pump!
How Can I Optimize My Charging Time?
If you're driving around throughout your day, you might be wondering how you can optimize your charging experience. It's unlikely that you'll be using a public EV charging station to fully charge your battery from 0-100%. However, it's still helpful to keep a few things in mind while you charge, so that you can make your charging pit-stops as efficient as possible. As we mentioned above, your vehicle will charge more quickly between 20-80%. Within that range, your battery will charge more efficiently when you start with a lower SoC. You can also optimize your charging time by charging in moderate temperatures, and avoiding extreme heat or cold. By using these simple tricks, you can help speed up your charging times, and keep your battery ready to go without slowing down your day.
What are Some EV Options?
For those who are currently exploring the models available on the EV market, you're sure to be met with lots of great options! One of the best parts about the emerging EV market is that many of the models currently available are updated versions on vehicles you already know and love. One great example of this is Jeep's selection of PHEVs. The first model they debuted was the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, which is a plug-in hybrid version of the classic Wrangler. The Wrangler 4xe has all the off-road capabilities you could ask for, as well as up to 21 miles of all-electric range. Similarly, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe offers a huge number of features both inside and out, with three selectable drive modes, and blue-painted 4xe badges. Another great option is the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, which is a plug-in version of the 7-person family minivan!
Visit Ourisman Automotive of Alexandria for New EV Inventory!
Have you been thinking about purchasing your very own EV or PHEV? We here at Ourisman Automotive are more than happy to help! Come and visit our dealership here in Alexandria, Virginia to check out all of our new inventory, and find great electric options such as the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, and more. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team members will be more than happy to help you test drive all of your favorite options, and we can also answer any questions you might have about our EV inventory, or any of the other vehicles on our lot. You can even get started right away by viewing our new inventory here on our website. From all of us here at Ourisman Automotive of Alexandria, we look forward to working with you soon!