We know you have plenty of BMW dealerships in Florida to choose from, which is why we try to make our location stand out. One way we distinguish ourselves from competing dealerships is by acting as an information resource for area drivers and answering their questions.
With luxury models like the BMW iX and the BMW i4 making EVs more compelling than ever, it's time for the team at Fields BMW Orlando to answer some frequent questions area drivers have about electric vehicle charging stations. If you don't see your question on our list of FAQs, don't hesitate to contact our BMW dealership.
What Are the Charging Options for an EV?
When drivers contact our Orlando, FL BMW dealership to inquire about electric vehicles, many ask us about the charging options that are available for an EV. In general, there are three options:
- Level 1 charging with a 120-volt outlet
- Level 2 charging using a 240-volt outlet or private charging station
- DC fast charging or level 3 charging at one of the thousands of public charging stations located throughout the U.S.
What Is the BMW Wallbox?
As you look through the BMW EVs on our lot, you might hear someone mention the BMW Wallbox. An optional feature, the BMW Wallbox is a level 2 charger that can be installed in your garage or outside your home. This charger can typically charge a BMW EV's battery from zero up to 100 percent capacity in less than 12 hours.
Do I Have to Pay to Charge an EV at a Public Charging Station?
If you get a new BMW vehicle from Fields BMW Orlando, you'll enjoy two years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations. Electrify America is the biggest open DC fast-charging network in the United States, which makes it convenient to charge your EV just about anywhere. After your complimentary term is over, and anytime you charge at a different public charging station, you'll need to pay to charge your EV.
How long does it take to charge an EV's battery?
It depends on various factors, such as the weather, the size of your EV's battery, and the charging capacity of the charger you're using. Low-voltage charging adds about 4 miles per hour of charging, while Level 2 charging works at about 40 miles per charging hour.
Do I have to charge an EV every day?
Generally, your driving habits and your EV's estimated driving range will influence the frequency with which you'll need to charge your vehicle's battery. If your commute is short, you'll be fine skipping a day or two, and even with longer trips, you may be in luck - all-electric BMW EVs have a range of up to 324 miles per full charge.
Now that you know all about EV charging stations, are you ready to get a BMW EV? If so, look over our BMW lease offers or schedule a test drive today!