Electric Vehicle (EV)
A vehicle propelled entirely by one or more electric motors, powered by a rechargeable battery pack. Includes battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Why It Matters
EVs consume 25-35 kWh per 100 miles, adding 30-50% to a typical home electricity usage. Planning for EV charging is essential when sizing solar and upgrading electrical panels.
Related Tools
Related Terms
EV Charger (EVSE)
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment — a device that safely delivers electricity to charge an EV battery. Level 2 (240V) chargers are most common for home use, adding 25-30 miles of range per hour.
Level 2 Charging
EV charging using a 240-volt circuit (same as a dryer or stove). Provides 12-60 miles of range per hour depending on the charger amperage (typically 20-80 amps).
DC Fast Charging (DCFC)
High-power EV charging (50-350+ kW) that converts AC power to DC before delivering it directly to the battery, bypassing the vehicle's onboard charger for much faster charging.
V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid)
Technology that allows EVs to discharge energy back to the utility grid, potentially earning revenue and providing grid services. Extends V2H beyond the home to the broader grid.