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The Cost of Charging Flex: A Buying Guide
Electric cars have come a long way since they first hit the market. With advances in technology, electric cars are now better and more affordable than ever before. However, one of the biggest factors that deter people from buying an electric car is the cost of charging. In this article, we will explore the cost of charging a Flex. We will also provide a buying guide that will help you choose the right Flex charging options for your needs.
The Cost of Charging a Flex
The amount of money you spend on charging your Flex will depend on how much you drive, the cost of electricity in your area, and the type of charging option you use. Generally, it is cheaper to charge at home than it is to charge at a public charging station.
Home Charging Options
There are two main options for home charging: Level 1 charging and Level 2 charging. Both options require a charging station to be installed in your home. Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt outlet. Level 2 charging requires a 240-volt outlet.
Level 1 Charging
Level 1 charging is the slowest option for charging your Flex. It can take up to 22 hours to fully charge your Flex using this method. However, Level 1 charging is the most affordable option. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, it costs about $0.12 per kWh to charge an electric car. This means that it would cost about $12.00 to fully charge a Flex with a 100 kWh battery using Level 1 charging.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging is faster than Level 1 charging. It can take as little as 8 hours to fully charge your Flex using this method. However, Level 2 charging is more expensive than Level 1 charging. The cost of installing a Level 2 charging station can range from $500 to $2,500. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, it costs about $0.12 per kWh to charge an electric car. This means that it would cost about $12.00 to fully charge a Flex with a 100 kWh battery using Level 2 charging.
Public Charging Stations
Public charging stations are a convenient option for charging your Flex while you are out and about. There are two types of public charging stations: Level 2 charging stations and DC fast charging stations.
Level 2 Charging Stations
Level 2 charging stations are similar to the Level 2 charging options for home charging. They require a 240-volt outlet and can take as little as 8 hours to fully charge your Flex. The cost of charging your Flex at a public Level 2 charging station can vary depending on where you live. According to ChargePoint, the average cost of a public Level 2 charging session in the United States is $0.28 per kWh. This means that it would cost about $28.00 to fully charge a Flex with a 100 kWh battery using a public Level 2 charging station.
DC Fast Charging Stations
DC fast charging stations are the fastest option for charging your Flex. They can charge your Flex up to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. However, DC fast charging stations are the most expensive option. According to ChargePoint, the average cost of a public DC fast charging session in the United States is $0.40 per kWh. This means that it would cost about $40.00 to charge a Flex with a 100 kWh battery up to 80% using a public DC fast charging station.
Choosing the Right Flex Charging Option
When it comes to choosing the right Flex charging option, you need to consider your driving habits and your budget. If you do most of your driving around town and have access to a Level 1 charging station at home, then Level 1 charging may be the best option for you. If you do a lot of driving and need to charge your Flex quickly, then a DC fast charging station may be the best option for you. However, keep in mind that DC fast charging is the most expensive option. If you drive a lot and want to keep your charging costs low, then Level 2 charging may be the best option for you.
Conclusion
The cost of charging a Flex will depend on how much you drive, the cost of electricity in your area, and the type of charging option you use. Generally, it is cheaper to charge at home than it is to charge at a public charging station. When choosing the right Flex charging option, you need to consider your driving habits and your budget. Level 1 charging is the most affordable option, while DC fast charging is the most expensive option. Level 2 charging provides a good balance between speed and cost.