Get answers to everything you want to know about electric car chargers

With the number of electric vehicles on the road expected to increase over the coming years, more loyal Chevy and Cadillac buyers are getting curious about the EV offerings. According to the team at Les Stanford Chevrolet-Cadillac, buyers are excited about features available in electric vehicles – but they do have questions. While Michigan had over 10,000 registered electric vehicles in June 2021, they are still relatively new for many people.

And, while an EV might be the perfect fit for someone who lives in a dense urban area, buyers who drive farther and longer need to be sure their vehicle will get there – plus where and how to charge along the way.

Here’s a look at common questions folks have about EV chargers (but maybe didn’t want to ask).

How far can I go with an electric vehicle?

“How far can I go?” is usually the biggest question on potential buyers’ minds. Will I have to charge every day? Can I go to all the places I want to go in a day or a week? While the precise answer depends on the make and model, the range on most newer EVs is quite good.

The 2022 Bolt EUV – featuring Chevrolet’s first hands-free driving assistance feature for compatible roads – boasts about 250 miles of range. That’ll get you to the western outskirts of Chicago or past Cleveland to Youngstown, Ohio, from the center of Detroit. The Bolt EV can take you that far, too.

The forthcoming (and much anticipated) 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ is estimated to have a range of over 300 miles with a full charge.

How do the chargers work?  

Learning to charge an EV is comparable to learning how to pump gas for the first time – electric car chargers are designed to be easy to use. Pop open the panel covering the charging port and plug it in. Always follow the instructions on the charger, but it’s quite simple overall. Think of it like plugging in your phone.

Even better? You can keep the car running, so you won’t freeze while waiting for your car to charge during frigid Michigan winters.

How long does it take?

It depends on the charger. There are three basic types:

• Level 1 charging can happen anywhere with a three-prong outlet. This can give you enough to cover an average daily commute of 40 miles with an overnight charge.
• Level 2 is the fastest way to charge at home with a 240V outlet. Chevrolet offers simple 240V outlet installation exclusively provided by Qmerit. This can cover an average daily commute of 40 miles in under two hours, and you’ll get a full charge.
• DC Fast Charging is accelerated charging while you’re away from home. This is usually only available at public charging stations. Use your energy assist feature in the myChevrolet app2 to find charging locations in the US. (All 2022 Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models have standard DC fast-charging capability.)
• Can I charge my car at home?

You sure can. More than 80% of charging happens at home, according to Chevrolet. The easiest way to charge is overnight at your home. Chevrolet’s partner Qmerit will find you home charging installers in your area to handle everything from outlet installation to permits (in some areas). Curious about the cost? Don’t be – Chevrolet will cover it for you!

Where can I find a charger?

Chargers are more common than ever! Many employers and towns now offer them, and you’ll find them in parking lots at shopping malls, grocery stores, hotels and other convenient locations near highways.

How can I find a charger on a road trip?

The easiest way is by using your myChevrolet mobile app. The app will tell you the location of public chargers. You can also enter “electric car chargers” into Google Maps or other maps apps to find chargers close to you.

The team at Les Stanford Chevrolet-Cadillac is leading the charge in the Metro Detroit area, so trust the electric vehicle authorities when choosing your vehicle.