If you’re considering buying an electric vehicle, our trusted energy advisors can help answer your questions. Our website also has tools to help you understand EVs, compare models and find local EV charging stations.

We regularly receive questions from members about EVs, including these:

Q: What are the different types of EVs? 
A: There are three types of EVs: 

• Battery EVs: Also called "all electric vehicles" because they have a battery and electric motor instead of a gas tank and an internal combustion engine. 
• Plug-in Hybrid EVs: Have an electric motor and a gas-powered internal combustion engine. They can be plugged in to charge the battery. 
• Hybrid EVs: Also have an electric motor and a gas-powered internal combustion engine; however, they don't plug in for charging. 

Q: Does the outside temperature affect the range of an EV? 
A: Outside temperatures, particularly colder weather, can impact the range of an EV. Unlike a gas-powered vehicle, where the heat is mostly coming from the engine, an EV must produce cabin heat and manage an optimal battery temperature with energy that comes from the battery, which can reduce battery range. 

Q: Will an EV meet my daily driving needs? 
A: If you are like most Americans and drive an average of 30 miles a day, an EV may meet your daily needs. Our website (jacksonemc.com/EV) has a tool where you can compare your daily commute’s estimated costs in a gas-powered vehicle vs an EV. 

Q: What kind of incentives are available for EVs? 
A: We offer a $250 rebate for residential members who purchase a Level 2 EV charger. There are also potential federal tax credits. Visit jacksonemc.com/EV for the latest incentives available. 

Q: How much does it cost to replace a battery in an EV? 
A: EVs require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles because they don’t need oil changes or have spark plugs to replace. They also don’t have an exhaust system, including mufflers or catalytic converters, that need repair. At some point, all batteries – including those in EVs – experience diminished performance. When it comes time to replace an EV battery, the costs range from about $5,000 up to $20,000. 
 

Q: Can I charge my EV at home using an existing outlet or do I need a special outlet? 
A: New EVs come with a 110-volt-compatible (Level 1) charging unit, which can be plugged into any standard household outlet. Charging times and range of miles added can vary greatly, depending on the type of charger used and other factors. If you typically drive longer distances or are in a hurry, a Level 2 charger takes about half the time and provides about 180 miles of range over an eight-hour charging period. A Level 2 charger uses a 220-240 volt outlet. Jackson EMC recommends members considering installing a Level 2 charger or 240-volt outlet contact a licensed electrician. Level 3 fast chargers are typically available only as public charging stations.

For more information about EVs, call us at 1-800-462-3691, or visit jacksonemc.com/ev.