The US already lags far behind China and Europe, but we're going too fast, dealers say.
  • Semi-Hemi-Demigod
    5•1 year ago

    I think stuff like this is why dealers are having trouble selling them. With ICE cars the only question is “do you have a parking space big enough for it.” But with EVs it’s “Do you have enough amperage in your service? Do you have 240V lines available in your breaker box? Do you have a way to get the electricity to where you park?”

    As EVs get more prevalent these will work themselves out, but switching to electric has more caveats than sticking to gas.

    • @spongebue@lemmy.worldEnglish
      3•1 year ago

      The questions aren’t totally invalid, but they are overblown. Virtually every house in the US has 240V (sometimes 208, but cars can handle that too) available - they generally just need a second adjacent slot. Technology Connections (YouTube channel) has a great video explaining it. The wiring is the same, even. Service amperage is easy to work around, especially with one reasonably-priced option that pauses charging if your whole-house is about to trip (unlikely if you charge overnight, but this works with code)

      Yes, it’s easy to stick with what you know. And I’ll admit I have a gas car too, but it rarely gets used. But I have to say, it sure is nice to have a quiet car that’s fun to drive and never needs to go to the gas station.

      • Semi-Hemi-Demigod
        2•1 year ago

        I think a good start would be to have all car dealers watch a few Technology Connections videos. The Biden administration should pay him to do a Super Bowl commercial or something. He’s just great.

        But these are all questions that require you to go home and look at your fuse box, or hire an electrician to verify that you have what you need. Or do some research.

        Now, I love doing a ton of research before I buy a car. But most people don’t need or want to know a hubcap from a head gasket, and the added of complexity of “this needs to connect to your house” is a hurdle that ICE cars don’t have, and will be a growing pain for EVs.

    • @BitSound@lemmy.worldEnglish
      1•1 year ago

      Those questions really don’t need to be asked. I charge off of a regular outlet, level 2 charging at home is nice but unnecessary. If those questions keep coming up, it’s likely from dealers that are fearmongering.