By Kamala Vanderkolk

I’m often asked “How quickly can this charge an EV?” However, when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), you need to shift your mindset from the traditional way of fueling gas cars.

Unlike gas cars that require frequent trips to the pump, EVs make the most of the time your car is parked, often charging overnight at home or during the day at work. Instead of viewing “fueling up” as another time consuming errand, think of EV charging as something that happens effortlessly in the background, just like doing laundry at home.

    • Home Charging = In-unit Washer/Dryer – Just like tossing clothes in the washer and going about your day, home charging happens while you’re busy. Plug in when you get home, and wake up to a fully charged car. It’s convenient and costs little—similar to a load of laundry.
    • On-site Charging = Shared Laundry Facilities – If you don’t have in-unit laundry, you likely use shared facilities in your building. Similarly, shared EV chargers in apartment complexes require a bit more effort but are still cost-effective and easy to use.
    • Road Trips = Laundromat – For long trips, think of charging at a DC fast charger like using a laundromat. You’ll spend about 20-30 minutes getting a charge, enough time to grab snacks or take a break. Prices and times vary depending on location and vehicle, but just like doing laundry, it’s manageable and part of the routine.

EV charging – it’s all about shifting your mindset.
If you can relate EV charging to doing laundry, you’ll discover that refueling your EV is easier than you think, because it usually happens while you’re doing something else. So instead of asking the question, how long does it take, consider the time you’re saving. Imagine never needing to wake up early for a gas station stop before work because your EV charges overnight. Plus, the financial perks are significant. EV drivers save about 60% on fuel costs, roughly $1,440 per year. And you’ll skip those extra convenience store purchases, saving you even more.

Yes, as easy as doing laundry – but with the bonus of not having to fold or put clothes away.

Kamala Vanderkolk leads VA Business Development for National Car Charging. You can reach Kamala at kvanderkolk@nationalcarcharging.com.