What is an EV?

EV stands for an Electric Vehicle, but there are few different types:

BEV Battery Electric Vehicle (all Electric)
PHEV+ Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (>10 kW)
PHEV Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (<10 kW)

In 2020, Austin Utilities purchased their first all-electric fleet vehicle. Look here for models available in the Midwest. Check out the Department of Energy Fuel Calculator fuel and emissions comparisons and savings.

Why Switch?

Because they use little or no gas, these vehicles minimize or even eliminate trips to the gas station. With a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) or Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), you can instead enjoy the convenience of plugging in at home overnight while you sleep. Click here for fuel comparison calculator.
Because they are like a breath of fresh air. PHEVs (in all-electric mode) and BEVs produce no tailpipe emissions and are virtually noiseless. Experience peace and quiet like never before.
Because electricity is a domestic energy source and using it in vehicles means that America relies less on imported fuels.
Because electric motors respond instantly providing full torque from standstill, electric cars typically accelerate far faster and smoother than gas-powered cars. Try it once, and you'll be hooked.
Less maintenance. Fewer moving parts mean fewer breakdowns, repairs and parts replacements.

Where can I charge my Vehicle

Most of the charging happens at home because it is the most convenient and affordable way to charge. Public charging is available when you are on the road or if your workplace happens to provide workplace charging.

CHARGING AT HOME accounts for about 85% of all charging done by EV drivers. This is why it’s important to understand the solutions available. Level 1 charging at home is available using a standard 120V plug and works well if you drive less than 30 miles per day. If you drive more miles than that, a Level 2 charger might be a better option for you. Level 2 chargers can charge up to seven times faster than a Level 1 charger depending on your vehicle type. They require a 240V source of electricity, like an electric dryer, so you may need to consult an electrician about installing a 240 volt supply near where your car is parked.

CHARGING IN PUBLIC can be Level 2 or DC Fast charging are usually used in public charging. To charge at a public charge station, you will need to know the type of charge station and plug available. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are currently more than 24,000 public electric vehicle charging stations across the country, and public charging infrastructure is growing rapidly. Drivers can use apps like the PlugShare Trip Planner feature to plan a road- trip with your electric vehicle and easily view all the best charging locations along the way. To check the availability in your area, visit these websites: Visit www.afdc.energy.gov & www.plugshare.com to learn more.

Austin Utilities has plans to install a network of EV charge stations in our community.

WORKPLACE CHARGING Some employers provide electric vehicle charging to increase the convenience of driving electric. Visit this website for ideas on ways to encourage your employer to provide EV charging if they don’t already.
Visit www.workplacecharging.com to learn more. CLICK HERE to view brochure on EV Workplace charging.

EV owners, sign up and pocket $30

If you are as charged up about electric vehicles (EVs) as we are, join Austin Utilities Electric Vehicle Owners (EVO) club and help us charge up the community. When you join Austin Utilities’ exclusive EVO club you will connect with other EVOs, help spread the word about the benefits of driving EVs, and be first to know about exclusive Austin Utilities EV offers and events.

As more Austin Utilities customers purchase EVs, the additional electric sales will be a benefit to the utility and the community, but only if cars are charging properly. We want to help EV owners learn the best time to charge their vehicles and how they can benefit from charging their vehicles at the right time of day. We also want to learn about EV owners needs and habits as we develop EV related rates and programs.

Benefits for club members:

Help Austin Utilities understand EV owner needs and habits as we develop EV related programs and rates
Be the first to hear about special utility EV charging rates and offers
Connect with other EV owners
Share your EV experience
Have the option to participate in Austin Utilities EV events

Club qualifications

Must be an Austin Utilities residential account household
Own or lease a qualified electric vehicle*
Complete this form
Submit a copy of your Minnesota automobile registration

*Only vehicles that are licensed EV (all electric) or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) that can travel on the freeway at highway speeds are eligible. Austin Utilities reserves the right to determine eligibility. ** Award Bucks will be paid in Chamber Bucks, usable at over 100 participating businesses.