Is Charging Electric Cars Better Than Refueling?
With fuel prices reaching unprecedented highs, charging an electric car has become significantly cheaper. However, while you can refuel a gasoline or diesel vehicle in just a few minutes, charging an electric vehicle (EV) requires some waiting time for the battery to recharge.
Charging an EV is similar to charging a phone or laptop—it takes time. Therefore, going to public charging stations—where there's no guarantee of finding an available charging spot—and waiting for your car to charge can be somewhat problematic.
Best Way to Charge an Electric Car
The optimal solution to this issue is to charge your electric vehicle at home.
Well, I'll just plug my car into my home electricity...
Hold on! Before you take your EV charger and plug it into your home outlet, you should know that this is not a sustainable solution. Plugging into a standard outlet should only be a temporary fix, as electric vehicles require high current that can only be supplied through a dedicated charger.
Types of Chargers Available for Electric Cars
Is There a Specific Type of Charger for Electric Cars?
The answer is yes. As the electric vehicle market is still emerging, a variety of charging alternatives are being introduced. However, the alternative recommended by most automakers (and us) is the "wallbox" for two crucial reasons:
- It has a sleek design that looks great when mounted on a wall.
- It integrates perfectly with the existing electrical wiring in your home.
Can I Install a Charger Myself and How Much Will It Cost?
The simple answer is: even if you think you can, please don't attempt it. There are numerous service providers who will send trained electricians to your home to install the charger. A verified service provider, associated with major brands like Tesla, Audi, and BMW, charges around AED 1,500 and will provide you with a charger that meets the highest standards. While the installation cost may seem high, it is a one-time investment.
In the long run, it will be cheaper than paying approximately 29 fils per kilowatt to charge your car at a public station, and it also offers you hassle-free charging.
Electricity Rates for Charging Electric Cars
Once you install a charger at home and start charging your vehicle, the electricity used will be added to your regular bill from Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) at standard residential electricity rates.
