There are numerous ways to charge an electric vehicle! You’ll be given a standard Level 1 charger when you purchase an EV. This is compatible with a 120-volt plug in your home. A Level 1 charger, according to the Department of Transportation, can take up to 50 hours to fully charge a battery-electric vehicle to 80 percent from empty, while it takes about six hours for a plug-in hybrid to fully charge.*

For faster at-home charging, consider a Level 2 charger. These chargers are typically purchased as add-ons and require professional installation. They are compatible with outlets over 208 volts. You can also use DC fast chargers, which are public charging stations and can charge about 10 to 20 miles of range per minute.

In a roundabout way, you are paying to charge your EV when needed. Charging it at home consumes energy, which will be tacked onto your electric bill. Public chargers can be paid by card or through an app. You may also have a monthly charging subscription that can bill you.

It will depend on charging times, location, utility company, and other factors. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to charging an EV.

It’s recommended that you only charge your EV when necessary. However, that varies from person to person. Driving habits, your car’s range, and how far you drive will all play a role. Ideally, you want to always keep your vehicle charged between 20 and 80 percent.

J.D. Power defines range anxiety as the fear EV drivers have when their vehicle's batteries are low and they don't have a reliable source of power.**

While battery range is improving, many EV drivers can eliminate range anxiety in several ways. Having a home charging setup is a great way to do this, as you can charge your vehicle daily if needed.

Consider joining a national charging station network. If you plan a trip and know you’ll need to charge your vehicle during it, you can easily find open stations on your route. Alternatively, you could rent a gas-powered car for long journeys.