Why are these electric vehicle conversions becoming popular? Many classic cars have large, inefficient powertrains that make them hard to justify on the road today. If you want the look of a classic vehicle with a modern powertrain, one of the best ways to get this is to choose EV electromods. A company can remove the combustion engine and replace it with an electric vehicle powertrain to revitalize the older model.

Here are a few popular choices.

Volkswagen Camper/Microbus

Volkswagen already created an electric version of the Microbus, which is sold on the modern vehicle market as the ID.Buzz. The original VW Camper hit the market in 1949 and was popular through the 1970s. If you want to revitalize the nostalgic feeling but enjoy the zero-emissions driving of an EV, a typical EV conversion uses a 53-kWh battery offering up to 140 miles of range and 90 horsepower. The free-living feeling of this VW adds green power to the vibe, allowing you to be a modern hippy.

Mini Cooper

The original Mini Cooper came with a small combustion engine but can still be one of the best EV electromods. The small size and recognizable style makes it the perfect city car. The electric conversion uses a 19-kWh battery, providing up to 100 miles of driving range and 75 horsepower. That small driving rang means you should probably keep this car in the city. Still, an electric Mini from the 1960s is a pretty interesting way to get around.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Another small car that works great with an electric conversion is the original Mazda Miata. This car arrived on the scene in 1989 and is a lightweight car with incredible handling. The Miata could be one of the most enjoyable EV cars you drive, especially with the instant torque offered that allows it to take off in a hurry. Some kits for this car include a 25-kWh battery that gives the car 100 miles of driving range and 120 horsepower. Adding this electric kit is a great way to have the driving prowess you want in a small electric convertible.

Porsche 911

If your classic Porsche 911 is on its last legs and you want to give it a new life, make it one of the EV electromods on the road. The Porsche 911 hit the market in 1964 and has been a top choice for drivers over the past 60 years. The traditional EV conversion gives this car a 62-kWh battery pack, 200 miles of driving range, and 320 horsepower. This allows you to give your classic car a new life while also ensuring it can be a zero-emissions vehicle.

Rolls-Royce Phantom V

Imagine this incredible car silently sneaking up on people. This Rolls-Royce could be great to drive with an electric powertrain, which is accomplished with a 120-kWh battery that delivers 300 miles of driving range and more than enough power for a glorious ride down a country lane. This might not be what you have in mind for your Phantom V, but it could be a great way to enjoy the car without rebuilding the massive V8 engine.

Land Rover Defender

The Defender has a range of powertrains, and this car dates back to 1983. This Land Rover SUV could be an excellent model for becoming one of the EV electromods for your green driving pleasure. The typical EV conversion uses an 81-kWh battery pack, which gives the SUV 180 miles of driving range and 270 horsepower. You can still enjoy off-roading and might think it’s better when you convert your 4WD SUV to an electric model with instant torque, which helps you get out of trouble more easily.

Volkswagen Beetle

The VW Beetle is the second model from the brand on this list. It was first introduced in 1938, with an incredible push for high production numbers coming after the end of World War II. More Beetles were made than any other vehicle in history, which makes a classic model perfect for an EV conversion. A typical conversion consists of a 26-kWh battery pack, giving the car 120 miles of driving range and 120 horsepower. Imagine silently driving a classic VW Beetle on the roads in your local town.

These seven cars are just a few examples of EV electromods that turn classic cars into electric vehicles, blending the old with the new for the classic style and a modernized powertrain.

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More drivers are switching from conventional gas-burning cars to EVs every year, and Chevrolet is doing a great job of keeping up with their changing demands. Let’s look at the top EVs found at your local Chevy dealer.

The Equinox EV Is Capable and Affordable

The Chevrolet Equinox EV is one of America’s most affordable EV SUVs. With 319 miles of range and speedy DC fast-charging times, it offers a fantastic value to drivers shopping on a budget.

The Equinox EV features GM’s innovative new battery platform, which allows it to add around 70 miles of range in just ten minutes on a fast charger. The EV SUV has 57.2 cu ft of flexible cargo space and comfortable seating for up to five people.

Drivers who don’t mind spending extra money can use an impressive range of available features, from Super Cruise to front and rear lighting animations. Customizable ambient lighting, heated front seats, and flush door handles round out your options further.

The Blazer EV Offers Top Performance and Style

Larger than the Equinox EV, the Blazer EV is a midsize SUV that offers maximum performance. With an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles, the Blazer EV can really go the distance. One Pedal Driving and Regen on Demand provides the best range for longer drives.

Inside the Blazer EV, drivers will find a standard 11-inch diagonal driver information screen, a 17.7-inch diagonal display screen, and wireless charging. Google built-in compatibility makes it easy to access apps directly from the center display.

Every Blazer EV comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, so drivers can have the peace of mind of knowing their families will be protected. From automatic e-braking to lane keep assist, the suite of driver assistance features makes piloting this EV a breeze.

The Silverado EV Gets the Job Done Right

The Silverado EV is one of the most impressive EV pickups on the market. With a GM-estimated range of up to 460 miles and up to 12,500 lbs of max available towing, it’s more than capable of putting in a good day’s work.

Drivers looking for impressive power can enable Wide Open Watts to harness up to 760 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque. Those more interested in maneuverability often cite Sidewinder as their favorite feature of the Silverado EV, as it enables the truck to move diagonally at low speeds.
The Silverado EV is more than just an impressive EV pickup truck. Drivers who invest in a GM Energy PowerShot Charger and Vehicle-to-Home Enablement Kit can also use their trucks to power their homes during blackouts for up to 21 days of reduced energy use.

Find the Best EV for Your Lifestyle

With three excellent options for electric vehicles, drivers have no trouble finding what they need at the Chevy dealer. The Equinox EV and Blazer EV are excellent family SUVs, while the Silverado EV is one of America’s most impressive electric trucks. There’s something for everyone in Chevrolet’s electric vehicle lineup.

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Hyundai has done more than simply add electric powertrains to some of its traditional gas and hybrid vehicles. The brand has developed a global electric platform, which is the basis for the growing electric car lineup from this Korean brand. Like Volkswagen, Hyundai shares its platform and technology with other brands, namely Kia and Genesis, which also offer electric models.

Here’s what Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup offers.

Hyundai Kona Electric

If you’re looking for a small electric SUV, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one of the top choices. This little SUV is the vehicle that launched Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup. It gives you an enjoyable drive and up to 261 miles of driving range on a full battery. The Kona Electric is great for your commute and its small enough to fit in every parking space along crowded city streets, giving you a great vehicle to drive and enjoy.

In addition to the small size and good driving range, the Kona Electric is relatively spacious, despite its small footprint. It also has an attractive interior package and excellent warranty coverage to keep you driving for a long time. There’s a new N Line trim which gives you a sportier look than the rest of the lineup.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been awarded the Best Buy Award from Kelley Blue Book, and it is one of the most incredibly useful EVs on the market. This electric SUV is easy to live with on a day-to-day basis, which is exactly what you expect out of your EV. The most popular choice in the Ioniq 5 lineup is the SEL model with AWD, which has two electric motors to send 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque to the wheels.

The battery capacities have been expanded for both batteries in the Ioniq 5 for 2025. This ensures it has up to 20 additional miles of driving range. The XRT grade is new for 2025, giving this compact electric SUV the off-road credibility desired.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

The Ioniq 5 N is the high-performance version of the Ioniq 5. This exciting and fun small SUV makes it easy to admire and enjoy the electric platform that makes it easy to rocket down the road. This is the most powerful production car from the brand, using two electric motors to generate 641 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque in boost mode. When the boost isn’t being used, it still makes 601 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. The Ioniq 5 N is fast and exciting, showing how much fun an EV can be.

Hyundai did more than add power to this EV to make it more exciting. Part of Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup includes making performance-oriented models more fun to drive. The Ioniq 5 N has wider tires and additional performance upgrades to keep the power harnessed and under control.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The growing electric car lineup from Hyundai includes a sedan. That sedan is the Ioniq 6, which is stylish, exciting, and extremely competitive. This EV can drive for up to 361 miles on a full charge. The battery can be recharged to 80% in only 18 minutes, which is pretty quick. The most popular choice for this electric sedan is the SEL with AWD, which has two electric motors sending 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels, giving you the power and performance to be fun on any road.

The SE model with the RWD setup and single motor has only 149 horsepower, but it can be had with a longer-range battery, which increases the power to 225 ponies. This might be the Ioniq 6 that’s right for you, but the AWD models are much more compelling.

Hyundai Ioniq 9

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 was known for a short while as the Ioniq 7, and it enters the current model year as a new vehicle and a three-row electric SUV. You can take up to seven passengers along for the ride and enjoy the experience together. This SUV is expected to have two powertrains, one that sends power to the rear wheels using only one electric motor, and the other with two electric motors sending power to all four wheels.

The Ioniq 9 is one of the first three-row electric SUVs that comes from a mainstream brand. This means you can have the seating you need and pay a lot less than you will if you shop for a Tesla Model X, Rivian RS1, or Volvo EX90. This makes the Ioniq 9 a great choice.

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As electric vehicle adoption surges, one major concern remains—can the U.S. charging network keep pace? With more EVs hitting the road, the demand for reliable, fast, and accessible charging stations is skyrocketing. While federal and state initiatives aim to expand infrastructure, challenges like slow charger deployment, inconsistent coverage, and outdated grid capacity pose serious roadblocks. This article explores whether the current charging network is enough, what improvements are needed, and how this issue could impact EV ownership in the coming years.

An EV surge

Electric vehicles have become increasingly popular and more widespread in recent years. The increased demand for EVs means a greater need for more public charging stations and a much better electric grid that can handle greater capacity. There may be some serious roadblocks that will keep the number of EV owners from growing, causing automakers to rethink their investment into electric vehicles. How could these challenges impact the need for improvements in the coming years? Could we see more reliable, fast, and accessible charging systems in the future?

A Band-Aid Fix

Tesla came to the rescue, to some degree, of the charging infrastructure. Previously, only Tesla-branded vehicles could use the company’s Supercharging network, but once a deal was struck, many vehicles could use these charging stations. This meant drivers with NACS-compatible charging plugs could pull up at a Teal Supercharger and plug in. Tesla allowed access by updating the software in most stations, but non-Tesla vehicles still charged at slower speeds than Tesla models. Still, adding these charging stations increased the number of available public charging stations significantly, but this only provides a band-aid fix at best.

The original plan thwarted

When the decade began, President Joe Biden drafted Presidential Orders to increase the number of public charging stations to 500,000. This project, funded by the federal government, was a good start, but most experts could not have predicted the demand for EVs that would grow furiously over the next few years. As emissions regulations became stricter, more drivers began to choose EVs. Automakers have dumped billions of dollars into developing electric vehicles, and the need for more than one million charging stations has become evident. Unfortunately, the growth of this network has already hit another major roadblock.

A huge roadblock

The political climate in the United States is tenuous at best. Unfortunately, when one party succeeds another in the Oval Office, the work of the previous administration can sometimes be in jeopardy. This is exactly what happened beginning on January 20 of this year. Immediate orders were put in place when the newly elected official took office, and Joe Biden’s term was over. This mean the billions that had already been spent on the EV charging infrastructure would go to waste unless plans continued, but that wasn’t the order given.

Why the stoppage of EV charger growth?

When parties fundamentally disagree and are extremely opposed to each other, the country can sometimes suffer. Despite the growing demand for EVs, which should translate immediately to the need for more public charging stations, the latest administration paused billions of dollars that were already allocated to states to build fast electric car chargers. Some states halted work on Inauguration Day, but some continued on. Many of those have since stopped building chargers due to the stoppage of federal funding coming from the most recent orders of the White House.

The power grid could be problematic

Although the current EV climate has cooled, especially since January, it’s expected that nearly half of all vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2030 will be electric. This means half the drivers will switch from using fossil fuels to renewable electricity, but there might be a serious problem. The current electric grid isn’t likely capable of keeping up with the demand required to fuel this many EVs. The electric grid is an aging system that’s built for a world that uses fossil fuels for many things.

Some automakers have produced more band-aid solutions including using EVs as battery backups for the electric grid. Part of the issue is the grid isn’t made to store energy, only supply it at an on-demand basis. This electric grid needs to be updated with storage facilities to back up the on-demand portion.

The EV charging infrastructure might be in jeopardy of failing miserably thanks to much higher demand than originally expected, the halting of federal funds, and an aging electric grid. Can anything be done to save this part of the automotive industry?

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The challenge drivers face when using electric vehicles is the time spent recharging the batteries. Many EVs can now drive longer than ever before, but that doesn’t reduce the charging time. Despite the improvements in charging, when drivers want to take long road trips, it’s more time-consuming in electric vehicles because of the time it takes to recharge. Thankfully, the top five longest-range EVs give you the driving range to avoid charging for longer than other vehicles.

Tesla Model S: 402 Miles

The Tesla Model S is the original long-range EV, proving electric cars could drive for several miles without recharging. This amazing car has been a leader in the luxury electric car industry for many years, giving the world several high-powered models, including the Plaid edition.

The electrified powertrain of the Model S makes it an instant hit on the road, ensuring it can sprint to 60 mph in a hurry. The base powertrain hits the top levels of the driving range, ensuring you have up to 402 miles of range on a full charge. If you choose the high-performance Plaid trim, you’ll still have 348 miles of driving range.

Rivian R1S: 410 Miles

Rivian is a relatively new company, but this EV startup is proving to be a top performer in the industry. Rivian vehicles are made for adventure, with both the R1S and R1 T ready to hit the trails for some fun. The R1S is one of the longest-range EVs available, and it’s made for some fun on the trails, ensuring you can have the driving experience desired.

You’ll find up to 104.7 cubic feet of cargo space in this electric SUV, but it also delivers up to 410 miles of driving range on a full charge with the Max pack and dual-motor powertrain. The 14.9 inches of maximum ground clearance and standard AWD help check off more boxes for your driving adventures.

Rivian R1T: 420 Miles

When the SUV from Rivian doesn’t have everything you want, the truck can give you more for your adventures. The R1T is impressive and capable, giving you the versatility desired in a truck that can haul and carry what you want and go anywhere. This truck is an outstanding off-roader with impressive ground clearance and the ability to wade through three feet of water.

The R1T delivers the desired driving range, offering up to 420 miles wen you have the Max pack. This means you’ll have a truck that can go all day and take you everywhere you want to go, even when you’re several miles from the nearest charging station.

Chevrolet Silverado EV: 492 Miles

Chevrolet promised an impressive driving range in its electric truck, and the bowtie brand delivered. The Chevrolet Silverado EV is one of the longest-range EVs available, and it’s one of the most capable electric trucks you’ll find. This Chevy can tow up to 12,500 pounds and carry up to 1,800 pounds in the bed.

The 2025 Silverado EV received a generous price cut, making it more accessible than ever. The model with the most driving range gives you 492 miles, and the battery can be recharged at 100 miles per ten minutes using a DC fast charging port. This makes the electric Silverado one of the most useful and capable electric trucks available.

Lucid Air: 512 Miles

The Lucid Air continues to be the top choice when you want the best driving range. Since it arrived on the market, the Lucid Air has been the longest-range EV available, ensuring drivers don’t need to stop to recharge the batteries very often. The Lucid brand didn’t waste any time becoming the leader in the luxury EV market, offering the Air in several configurations.

This incredible car can give you up to 512 miles of driving range on a full charge, but it can also be exciting to drive. Some versions can sprint to 60 mph in 1.89 seconds, which is lightning-fast and only limited by the tires used.

The longest-range EVs remove most of the range anxiety you might feel when you drive an electric vehicle. These five models hit the top spots and offer various vehicle types for your driving needs. Will you drive one of these EVs and let them keep you happy and on the road for more miles than other EVs?

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Under the Hood of the New EV Battery Study

A new study was recently done by scientists in the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center. This center is a joint venture between Stanford University’s Precourt Institute for Energy and the SLAC National Accelerator Lab.
They found that batteries used real-world conditions such as heavy traffic, short trips in the city, and even long highway trips lasted longer than the batteries that were originally tested in the lab. In the lab, they simulated use by creating a constant rate of discharge and then recharging.

What Did the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center Do?

The SLAC-Standford Battery Center conducted their test differently than the previous battery tests. They replicated real-world conditions and driving patterns by designing different discharge patterns based on real data. They tested 92 lithium-ion batteries for over two years using a variety of different scenarios such as electronic starting and stopping, to mimic real conditions.

What Did They Find?

Once batteries were being used out in real driving conditions, including long periods of being parked, they realized that the way they were testing the batteries in the lab was not a good way to predict the life expectancy. Other driving habits such as frequent acceleration, braking the charges the battery, and letting the battery rest for several hours such as overnight, helps them last up to 40 percent longer.

So What Does This Mean for EV Drivers?

What does this pleasant surprise mean for people who already drive electric vehicles or are looking into buying electric SUVs? It means that EV drivers could save a significant amount of money in the long run.
One of the things that was holding some car buyers back from choosing an EV over a gas vehicle was the idea that they would have to replace the battery, Now, they can feel more comfortable with the idea of an EV, knowing that the replacement is many years down the road. Batteries that last longer help reduce the overall cost of owning an EV.

What Affects Battery Life

EV batteries can last 10 or 20 years, but there are many things that can have an effect on how long they last. One of the biggest factors is battery chemistry. There are two main types of batteries found in EVs: lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride. Most EVs have lithium-ion batteries.
In addition to the type of battery, the environmental conditions can impact its lifespan. Extreme heat and cold can affect the chemical process. DC fast charging is another factor that can affect battery life. Frequent use is linked to faster degradation.

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Michigan: The Heart of American Automotive

Michigan’s identity is linked to the automotive industry, making it a key player in shaping national policies. As the birthplace of the Big Three, Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, Michigan has major political influence, with candidates often adjusting their platforms to address the needs of the state’s workforce and economy.

For a local Ford dealer, these policies can directly impact sales, manufacturing decisions, and incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). Presidential candidates frequently promise initiatives to protect and grow automotive jobs, and debates often center around subsidies for EV production, tariffs on imported vehicles, and investments in domestic manufacturing.

Michigan’s prominence in green energy discussions is also growing. Federal support for EV tax credits and charging infrastructure is not just a national issue but a local one, as Michigan workers stand to benefit from expanded production and innovation.

Ohio: A Manufacturing Powerhouse

Ohio, another swing state, plays a huge role in shaping automotive policies. With a strong tradition of manufacturing and assembly plants, Ohio’s economy heavily relies on the automotive sector. Policies that promote domestic production and discourage outsourcing are crucial to the state’s workforce.

Green energy policies are a growing priority in Ohio, especially as automakers shift toward EV production. A local Ford dealer in Ohio might see firsthand how incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles influence consumer decisions. Presidential candidates often use Ohio as a platform to discuss infrastructure investments, including charging stations, and how these initiatives will create jobs and modernize the industry.

Pennsylvania: Where Energy Meets Automotive

Pennsylvania’s role in automotive policy discussions often intersects with its energy resources. As a major producer of natural gas, the state straddles the line between traditional energy policies and the push for green energy. This duality makes Pennsylvania a powerful voice in debates about the future of EVs and renewable energy in the automotive industry.

For Pennsylvania’s Ford dealer locations, consumer interest in EVs depends not only on federal tax credits but also on the development of infrastructure like charging stations. Candidates frequently highlight plans to expand green energy initiatives in Pennsylvania, aiming to attract investments from automakers and drive job creation in the process.

Swing States Matter

Swing states like Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are major areas for the future of the U.S. automotive industry. The policies debated and enacted during elections shape everything from job creation to technological innovation. Whether it’s ensuring the success of a local Ford dealer or positioning the U.S. as a leader in EV production, the impact of these states extends far beyond their borders.

As presidential candidates fight for votes in swing states, the automotive industry remains a central topic of discussion. From promises of job security to investments in green energy, the policies shaped in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania will continue to steer the future of American manufacturing and mobility.

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Do you remember the RSX name? It was used for a short time for a car that was sold in the United States from 2002 to 2006. In what has become a popular tradition, the brand is bringing back the RSX name to be a new compact electric SUV that will slot below the ZDX. The new RDX will feature a sloping coupe-like roofline and should be the first all-electric Acura model developed without the GM Ultium battery platform.

What will this mean for the Acura brand?

Acura is focused on the future, with EV models heading to market to follow the ZDX. This new electric crossover was revealed at the Monterey Car Week last year as the Acura Performance EV concept. It will become the first vehicle to use Honda’s new EV platform, which is expected to be the platform used for the Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV models. These electric Hondas were on display at the Consumer Electronics Show that opened the 2025 show year, giving us a look at the future of Honda’s EV plans.

Where will this Acura be built?

The new 2026 Acura RSX will be built at the new Honda EV Hub in Ohio. This Honda facility has been under conversion for several months as the brand changes its Marysville and East Liberty plants into locations where hybris and EVs can be built alongside the traditional gas-powered models. The new RSX will become the first EV built at this facility , and the Honda 0-series models will be introduced next. The new RSX is likely to begin production in early 2026, but we don’t have full details about the timing or the vehicle yet.

In the meantime

Breaking through into the electric vehicle market isn’t easy for any automaker, especially one that’s reliant upon other brands to help make its vehicles possible. As the old saying goes ,“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” and that means we should talk about what Acura already offers. Currently, the only electric vehicle from this luxury brand is the ZDX. This useful five-passenger SUV is built using the GM Ultium battery platform. It shares much of the same underpinnings as the Cadillac Lyriq and Chevy Blazer EV, but it is finished at Acura to wear the brand’s personality and style.

Strangely American

You might expect everything that isn’t connected to the batteries to be from Acura in the ZDX, but that’s not the case. This SUV has some of the same switchgear as the GM model instead of using Acura-specific items. This doesn’t take anything away from the ZDX but might make those who notice this wonder why the brand didn’t use its own stuff.

The driving experience in the ZDX is much like the models from GM. Hopefully, when the 2026 Acura RSX appears, it will be a much different experience for drivers. Even the ZDX Type S isn’t as exciting as a performance model should be. That said, the power for this SUV is impressive ,giving you a range rom 358 to 599 horsepower and the choice of RWD or AWD.

The ZDX is quick

Something the new Acura EV will need to live up to is the performance of the current model. The ZDX Type S can rocket to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, which is pretty impressive for an SUV with the added weight of electric batteries. The other models are a bit slower, with the RWD base model hitting the same speed in 5.5 seconds. That’s no slouch, but in the EV world, it might not be as quick as some people would like.

Range and charging speed

Another area where the 2026 Acura RSX will need to perform is the driving range and charging speed. The ZDX has a serious advantage when using the Ultium battery platform. This current SUV provides up to 313 miles of driving range in the RWD A-Spec trim and 304 miles in the AWD version. The Type S achieves 278 miles of driving range, which isn’t bad. This Acura SUV can also add 81 miles of range in only 10 minutes when using a DC fast charging port.

The new 2026 Acura RSX is on the way, but we don’t know much about it yet. It will be the first vehicle on the Honda EV platform, which means there is pressure on it to meet or beat the current EV standards set by other models.

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Bridging the Gap with Charging Adapters

To make Tesla Superchargers compatible with their vehicles, Mercedes-Benz will offer a specialized adapter for $185, available through dealerships starting in February. This adapter will allow current Mercedes EV owners to connect to Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS) plugs. While some competitors faced delays in making adapters available, Mercedes aims to avoid the same pitfalls by offering early and clear access to the technology.

A Shift Towards NACS Integration

Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz plans to eliminate the need for adapters entirely. Starting with its 2024 production, the brand will include built-in NACS charging ports in all North American electric models. This aligns with an industry-wide shift as major automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Volvo also move toward integrating NACS into their EV lineups.

This direct access to Tesla’s Superchargers adds to the convenience of EV ownership. With charging times faster than many public alternatives, the network represents a major upgrade for those planning long trips or daily commutes.

The Current Mercedes-Benz EV Lineup

Mercedes-Benz already offers an excellent selection of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, appealing to a wide range of drivers. Here’s a look at some of the standout models:

• GLC and GLE Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: Ideal for drivers who want electric efficiency and long-range flexibility.
• EQB SUV: A compact but spacious SUV designed for urban and family use.
• EQE and EQS Sedans: Sleek and luxurious options for those who prioritize premium performance.
• EQS SUV and EQS Maybach: These top-tier SUVs offer unmatched comfort and cutting-edge technology.
• Electric G-Class: An all-electric version of the iconic G-Wagon, bringing off-road power to the EV world.

Expanding its EV charging capabilities helps Mercedes-Benz ensure that these models remain competitive in an evolving market.

What This Means for EV Owners

The inclusion of the Tesla Supercharger network is a game-changer for Mercedes-Benz drivers. The convenience of fast-charging infrastructure reduces range anxiety and makes road trips more feasible.

For current owners who don’t want to wait for built-in NACS compatibility, the adapter provides an immediate solution. Though some may not like the $185 price tag, it’s a small price to pay for access to one of the most extensive and reliable charging networks available.

Driving Toward a Fully Connected Future

As the EV market continues to grow, Mercedes-Benz’s partnership with Tesla’s Supercharger will make a real difference. Whether you’re exploring the latest models at a Mercedes-Benz dealership or planning a long-distance trip in your EQS SUV, the integration of NACS ports and access to Tesla’s Superchargers improves electric mobility. By prioritizing convenience and expanding charging access, Mercedes-Benz is ensuring its drivers stay charged.

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Electric vehicles aren’t brand new to the market and actually date back much further than you might expect. That said, it wasn’t until the last dozen years or so that EVs have become popular enough to require an infrastructure for recharging the batteries or the development of faster charging capabilities.

Here are some important things to know about EV charging that will help demystify the confusion surrounding these vehicles.

How many levels of charging are there?

Currently, there are three distinct levels of charging that can be used for most electric vehicles. In many cases, modern EVs won’t charge quickly or effectively using Level 1 charging, but its still part of the available charging network. Let’s take a look at all three charging levels to understand what they offer.

Level 1

The most basic form of EV charging is Level 1. This means using a regular household 120V outlet to charge your electric vehicle. This is the slowest way to charge any vehicle, but it is the most widely available and convenient way to replenish the batteries, especially if you only drive your vehicle a few times per week. The charging rate using a Level 1 plug is about two to four miles of additional range per hour. This is the least efficient way to charge your EV, but it could work for some drivers who don’t drive often.

Level 2

The most useful type of charging is what you can use at home. Level 2 charging utilizes a 240-volt outlet, which is the same power as your clothes dryer needs. In most cases, in order to effectively charge your EV at home, you need to have a Level 2 charging plug installed in your home that can be used when you need to replenish the batteries. Most automakers offer an included Level 2 charger with the purchase of an EV, but they don’t include installation of a new 240-volt plug that operates separately from your clothes dryer.

The movement toward electric vehicles is extremely dependent upon EV owners adding a Level 2 charging outlet to their homes. In general, a Level 2 charging system can replenish EV batteries overnight. You’ll need to consult an electrician to ensure your home’s electric panel can support your new EV charging setup.

You may also find Level 2 chargers in many public spaces, such as parking garages and parking lots. Other public chargers are Level 3, and you need to know the difference.

Level 3

Level 3 chargers are the quickest of all three systems and they are also known as DC fast-chargers. These chargers are extremely useful on long trips and make it possible to take EVs on road trips because of the fast charging time. The speed at which these chargers operate depends on the setup, which can add between 100 and 250 miles of additional range in 30-45 minutes. The higher voltage means you can’t charge to 100% of the battery’s capacity while attached to the Level 3 charger.

These DC fast chargers operate at as little as 50 kW and as much as 500 kW, depending on the EV and the charger. Once an EV battery reaches 80% of the full charge, a Level 3 charger changes and slows down considerably. This is done to prevent overheating and overcharging.

Most automakers advise charging only to 80% when using Level 2 and Level 3 chargers.

What about the connectors?

Most EVs come with different connectors that you can utilize based on the speed of the EV charging being done. Level 1 and Level 2 charging uses a standard round port, which is called a J1772 connector. There are a few different types of connectors being used for Level 3 charging, including CCS and NACS connectors. The NACS connector is becoming the standard across the industry.

Some EVs use the CHAdeMO connector, but this plug is becoming obsolete. Soon, the CCS will also be obsolete, and all EVs will utilize the same connector.

Is the infrastructure ready?

You’ve probably seen more EV Level 3 charging stations along your route, especially during road trips, but the infrastructure growth hasn’t kept up with the increased number of EVs on the road. Still, most electric vehicles charge at home using Level 2 chargers, which makes them useful for most driving needs. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, now you know a little more about how to charge it and the various types of charging available to you.

The post EV Charging 101: Demystifying Charging Levels, Connectors, and Infrastructure first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post EV Charging 101: Demystifying Charging Levels, Connectors, and Infrastructure appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.