Electric Vehicle Basics

A growing number of automakers offer drivers electric vehicle options. As more of these vehicles are introduced and sold in the markets Xcel Energy serves, we are here to help our customers plug in.

There are generally two types of electric vehicles. Hybrid-electric vehicles combine a conventional gasoline engine with a battery-run electric propulsion system to help improve fuel efficiency or performance. Hybrid-electric cars have been available in the United States for about a decade. Some examples include the Toyota Prius and Ford Escape and Fusion Hybrids.

Automakers also have introduced plug-in electric vehicles that are operated by a battery that is charged or “fueled” by plugging into an electrical outlet. There are currently two types of plug-in electric vehicles—all electric and hybrid. An all-electric plug-in vehicle is dependent solely on the battery and must be recharged when the battery is depleted. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle operates on both a battery and a gasoline engine. The car initially runs on power from the battery, and when the battery is depleted, it can continue to operate on gasoline.

We expect to see the availability increase of plug-in electric vehicles. Some experts predict that by 2025 one in six households will own an electric car and by 2030 one in three will have one. How widely adopted they become depends on a number of factors, including:

• Vehicle availability, options and price
• Oil prices
• Electricity prices
• Charging convenience
• Battery costs and driving range
• Government incentives

Some benefits we see with electric vehicles include:

• Lower fuel and operating costs
• Reduced dependence on foreign oil
• Air quality and other environmental improvements because these vehicles produce lower greenhouse gas and tailpipe emissions

If you are the new owner of an electric vehicle or are considering an electric vehicle purchase, you need to think about fueling your car. It is expected that most electric vehicle drivers will charge their batteries at home in a garage or carport.

Electric Vehicle Charging Options:

Home charging

For home charging, you should designate a specific location and electrical outlet for fueling your car. There are generally three levels of charging available today. The level you choose will depend on the make and model of your vehicle and your charging and driving needs.

Home charging is the responsibility of the vehicle owner. We recommend that you consult with a certified electrician to determine if your home’s current power capacity can support home charging before you purchase a vehicle. Your car’s manufacturer should recommend the type of charging for your vehicle. Any outlets or associated equipment should be installed by a qualified electrical contractor. A building permit, along with an inspection, may be required for electrical modifications. Look for electricians and contractors with specific knowledge around electric vehicle charging.

Charging in a multiunit building

Residents of apartment, townhome, high-rise and condominium buildings have additional considerations that do not apply to home charging stations. Planning is required for safe, convenient charging. Check with your landlord or property management company about where you can charge your electric vehicle in an existing 120-volt standard outlet or the possibility of installing a 240-volt charging station.

Public and workplace charging

Besides charging at home, the number of publicly available stations is expected to grow in the coming years. Local governments and commercial operators are installing public charging stations at parking garages, shopping centers, on-street parking spaces and private locations. You also may be interested in charging your vehicle from a work location. Check with your employer about where you can charge your electric vehicle in an existing 120-volt standard outlet or the possibility of installing a 240-volt charging station. 

Calculating costs and other benefits

Switching from gasoline to electricity can significantly reduce transportation fuel costs. Use the calculator below to see a general cost and emissions comparison between electric and gasoline powered vehicles.

Time of Day Plan

Xcel Energy residential customers in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Michigan can take advantage of a Time of Day plan to significantly save on home charging costs. If you choose to charge your vehicle and run other appliances during off-peak hours—late evening and early morning, we offer a special off-peak rate that is less than half the standard rate. If you charge your vehicle or use selected appliances during peak times while on the Time of Day plan, you pay a rate that is higher than standard rates.

Here are considerations for using the Time of Day plan:

• You use at least 650 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month of electricity
• You can charge your vehicle between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. on weekdays; weekends and most holidays, 24 hours a day, are considered off peak
• In addition to electric vehicle charging, you have appliances that can run during off-peak hours; at least 65 percent of your electricity use must be at night or on the weekend to benefit from this rate
• You cannot participate in our Saver's Switch program while on the Time of Day plan

If you sign up to participate in the Time of Day plan, we will replace your meter with a Time of Day meter that records time and usage. It is not required, but you may want to hire an electrical contractor to install an automatic control devise to turn appliances (such as electric water heaters) on and off automatically, if desired.

Ready for you to plug in

The electric system is ready for you to begin charging. To ensure everything runs smoothly for you, we are proactively monitoring charging locations and electric system equipment. We are in touch with automakers who sell vehicles. You can help too by taking our online survey or contacting us if you plan to purchase an electric vehicle.