How can electric vehicle charging systems be made more accessible, affordable, and equitable?

1 Charging levels and standards

One of the factors that affects the accessibility and affordability of EV charging systems is the level and standard of charging. There are three main levels of charging: Level 1, which uses a standard 120V outlet and provides about 5 miles of range per hour; Level 2, which uses a 240V outlet and provides about 25 miles of range per hour; and Level 3, which uses a high-voltage direct current (DC) fast charger and provides about 200 miles of range in 30 minutes. The level of charging determines the speed, cost, and availability of charging stations. Additionally, there are different standards of charging connectors, such as SAE J1772, CHAdeMO, and CCS, which affect the compatibility and interoperability of EVs and chargers. Electrical designers need to consider the optimal level and standard of charging for different scenarios, such as residential, commercial, public, or fleet applications.

2 Smart and wireless charging

Another aspect of electrical design that can enhance the accessibility and affordability of EV charging systems is the integration of smart and wireless technologies. Smart charging refers to the use of software, sensors, and communication devices to optimize the charging process, such as adjusting the power output, scheduling the charging time, or managing the demand response. Smart charging can reduce the peak load on the grid, lower the electricity costs, and increase the reliability and efficiency of charging stations. Wireless charging refers to the use of electromagnetic induction or resonance to transfer power from a transmitter to a receiver without a physical connection. Wireless charging can eliminate the need for cables and plugs, increase the convenience and safety of charging, and enable dynamic or in-motion charging. Electrical designers need to explore the potential and feasibility of smart and wireless charging for different use cases, such as parking lots, highways, or urban areas.

3 Equity and inclusion

A third dimension of electrical design that can improve the accessibility and affordability of EV charging systems is the consideration of equity and inclusion. Equity and inclusion refer to the fair and inclusive distribution of benefits and opportunities for EV drivers and communities, especially those who are underserved, marginalized, or disadvantaged. Equity and inclusion can be achieved by addressing the barriers and gaps that prevent some groups from accessing or benefiting from EV charging systems, such as income, location, mobility, or awareness. Some of the strategies that electrical designers can implement to promote equity and inclusion are: providing subsidies or incentives for low-income or rural drivers; installing chargers in diverse and accessible locations, such as multifamily housing, workplaces, or public transit hubs; designing chargers that are user-friendly, accessible, and culturally sensitive; and engaging with stakeholders and communities to understand their needs and preferences. Electrical designers need to adopt a holistic and human-centered approach to ensure that EV charging systems are not only accessible and affordable, but also equitable and inclusive.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?