What home charging costs

The cost of charging at home is the energy you use times your electricity rate. A typical EV uses about 37.0 kWh per 100 miles. At the US residential average of 18.3¢ per kWh, that is about $6.77 per 100 miles, against about $16.01 in a 28 mpg gas car with gas at $4.48.

Your cost can be lower or higher than the average. State averages run from 12.7¢ to 48.0¢ per kWh. Many utilities offer a cheaper off-peak or EV rate, so charging after midnight can cost much less than the average.

• Level 1 costs nothing to set up but is slow.
• Level 2 needs a 240-volt circuit and an installer. Costs depend on your panel and the distance to it, so get a quote from a licensed electrician.
• Ask your utility about EV rates and rebates. Federal and state incentives change, so check the current rules before you buy.

Try the calculator for your car and state.

General information. Equipment, rates and incentives change; check your car's manual and your utility.