How much will an electric car add to my bill
How Much Does Your Electric Bill Go Up With A Tesla?
As of February 2023, the average residential electricity rate in the U.S. is about 23 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
Switching to an EV means charging your car at home, naturally increasing household electricity usage. Understanding this cost is crucial for financial planning and compares favorably to the ongoing costs of gasoline.
A Teslas battery capacity and your driving habits are key factors that dictate the increase in your electricity expenses.
The cost of charging an electric car can be estimated by examining the size of its battery and the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity in your area.
For instance, the Tesla Model Xs 100 kWh battery will cost a certain amount to charge from empty to full based on local electricity rates.
Your electric bill increase is not just about the cost to charge but also about the efficiency of the vehicle. Teslas are known for their energy efficiency, meaning more miles per kWh than other electric cars.
This translates to a lower overall cost per mile, affecting how much your electric bill will rise due to your new Tesla.
Comparing Tesla Models by Cost to Own
When assessing the monthly cost of ownership consider both the initial price and the long-term charging costs.
The Tesla Model 3, being the most affordable option, starts with a lower price tag compared to the more premium Tesla Model S and the spacious Tesla Model X. Heres a quick look at their battery capacities and potential charging expenses:
- Tesla Model 3: Approx. 50-82 kWh battery capacity, average cost to charge $11-$18
- Tesla Model S: Approx. 100 kWh battery capacity, average cost to charge $23
- Tesla Model X: Approx. 100 kWh battery capacity, ideal for those needing an SUV, similar charging costs to Model S
- Tesla Model Y: Falls between Model 3 & X, combines efficiency and space, cost to own similar to Model 3 due to shared components
So if you charge a Model S from empty to full 20 times a month, you are looking at $460 being added to your electricity bill. But in real life, this figure would be lower because of the 20%-80% rule.
Your actual costs will vary based on local electricity rates and how often you charge.
Calculating Electricity Usage for Tesla
When considering the cost to charge a Tesla, youll need to understand the energy usage based on battery capacity and local electricity rates. This will help you estimate the increase in your electricity bill.
Cost Per Charge Calculation
To calculate the cost per charge for your Tesla, you must consider two main factors: your Teslas battery capacity (measured in kilowatt-hours or kWh) and your electricity rate (cost per kWh consumed).
For instance, a Tesla X with a 100kWh battery will cost different amounts based on the per kWh rate set by your electric company. If your electricity rate is $0.23 per kWh, a full charge would cost you [100kWh x $0.23/kWh] = $23.00.
Factors Affecting Charging Costs
Several factors affect charging costs including:
- The efficiency of your Tesla model
- The type of charger you use, such as a High Power Wall Connector (HPWC) which might use amps ranging from 40 to 80 amps
- Weather conditions which can impact your Teslas charging efficiency
- Electricity usage during peak hours can be more expensive, depending on your electric companys pricing scheme
- The frequency of charges, which depends on your typical mileage
Using energy during off-peak hours could result in savings on your electricity bill.
Comparing Tesla Charging to Gasoline Cost
If youre driving a gas car with an average of 25 mpg and gas costs $3.50 per gallon, a 100-mile trip would cost you $14.00.
Meanwhile, the same trip in a Tesla could cost less than $5, depending on your local electricity rates and your cars efficiency.
Impact on the Electric Bill
Upgrading to a Tesla can significantly change your electricity consumption patterns. Understanding how it affects your electric bill is essential for effective budget planning.
Average Increase in Electric Bill
Your electric bill will undoubtedly go up when you start charging a Tesla at home. The exact increase depends on the model of your Tesla, how often you drive, and your local electricity rate.
Charging a Tesla Model X with a 100kWh battery at the national residential average may cost about $23 per full charge. If you charge your Tesla frequently, your monthly electric bill may see a noticeable increase.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency
Despite the initial increase in electricity costs, a Tesla offers long-term savings when compared to vehicles with an internal combustion engine.
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance costs, and the cost of electricity is often less volatile than gas prices.
Additionally, the efficiency of electric motors in converting energy into motion is typically higher than that of gasoline engines, which can translate to more miles for your dollar over time.
Budgeting for a Tesla
To effectively budget for a Tesla in your life, you should:
- Calculate the expected increase in your electric bill based on your usual mileage and local electricity rates.
- Factor in regional variations; some areas have higher rates during peak hours.
- Consider residential electricity plans that offer lower rates for electric vehicle charging during off-peak hours to maximize savings.
- Remember to include potential tax incentives and rebates for electric vehicle owners, which can offset the increased cost of electricity.
Regional Variations in Electric Bill Impact
Your state of residence is crucial in determining how much your electric bill will increase when you own a Tesla.
Electricity rates can differ drastically from one state to another, impacting the cost of charging.
Remember that the average cost of electricity nationally is around 23 cents per kWh.
Yet this rate might be lower in some states and significantly higher in others, altering the financial impact of ownership.
In Arizona, Tesla drivers experience off-peak rates for electricity that can range between 7.38-7.59 cents per kWh, this being one of the factors making electric bill variations quite noticeable when compared across different regions.
Impact of Weather on Charging
Extreme cold temperatures can lead to your Tesla requiring more energy to maintain battery performance, resulting in a higher electricity bill.
Places with mild weather are more likely to see consistent charging costs, whereas states with harsher seasons may observe fluctuations in their electricity bill due to the additional energy required for climate control and battery management during charging.
Practical Tips for New and Prospective Tesla Owners
You can minimize the impact on your costs by strategically managing when and how you charge your Tesla.
Utilizing Off-Peak Hours
Off-peak hours are when electricity demand is low; consequently, the electricity rate may be cheaper.
Check with your local utility company for off-peak times and charge during these hours.
Not only will charging during off-peak hours lessen the strain on the electrical grid, but it can also save you a significant amount of money on your electric bill if your utility offers time-based rates.
Investment in Home Charging Infrastructure
Investing in a Level 2 home charging station can be cost-efficient in the long term.
Level 2 chargers are faster and more efficient than standard charging options. Though theres an upfront investment for the charging infrastructure and installation, the convenience and lower charging costs over time can offset the initial expense.
Moreover, some regions offer incentives or rebates for installing charging equipment.
Leveraging Renewable Energy
Pairing your Tesla with renewable energy sources like solar panels can substantially reduce your charging costs.
By generating your own electricity, your reliance on the grid decreases, and this can lead to lower home electric bills.
Remember that while the initial cost of solar installation is considerable, the long-term savings and potential increase in property value are worth considering.
Navigating Tax Incentives and Rebates
Federal, state, and local governments often provide financial incentives for purchasing electric cars:
- Federal Tax Credit: Up to $7,500 credit for new EV purchases, though it phases out after a manufacturer hits 200,000 units sold.
- State Rebates: These can range widely based on your location, with additional incentives for installing solar panels or home charging stations.
In addition to government savings, Tesla occasionally offers their own promotions, like complimentary Supercharging miles. Ensure to stay updated on Teslas website or your local EV programs for the latest information.
As a new or prospective Tesla owner, understanding the cost details associated with various models and the potential financial benefits from tax incentives ensures a more informed decision-making process.
Charging Your Plug-in Electric Car
Charging Your Plug-in Electric Car
Whether you have an all-electric car or a plug-in hybrid, you have several options for charging your vehicle. Many owners will do the majority of their charging at home. Some workplaces, businesses, and multi-unit dwellings (condos/apartments) provide charging, and there are over 55,000 public charging stations located across the country.
Three types of charging are available to plug-in vehicle owners, as shown in the table below.
Loading alternative fueling station locator...
Please enable JavaScript to view the alternative fueling station locator.| Level 1(120 V) | Level 2(240/208 V) | Fast Charging(480+ V) |
|---|---|---|
| Charging Speed | ||
| 5 mi of range per hr | 25 mi of range per hr* | 100 to 200+ mi of range per 30 min |
| Charge Port (to vehicle) | ||
 J1772 | J1772 |  J1772  CHAdeMO  Tesla Combo |
| Additional Information | ||
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* This Level 2 charging speed value is an average. Level 2 charging speed varies significantly among vehicles and can range from just a few miles of range per hour of charging to around 40 miles per hour.
Note: Charge rate can vary based on vehicle model for all charging types. So, check the owner's manual for estimated charge time. Charge rate also depends on other factors, such as the battery's state of charge and the ambient temperature. Visit AFDC's Developing Infrastructure to Charge Plug-In Electric Vehicles for more information about vehicle charging options.
Common Questions
This depends on your electricity cost, your car's fuel efficiency, and the number of miles you drive on electricity in a month. For example, if you drive an EV that gets 97 MPGe (35 kWh/100 mi) 12,000 miles a year, electricity costs $0.13/kWh, and you only charge at home, it would add $45.50 to your monthly electric bill.
Many vehicles have built-in displays that show the nearest charging stations and/or smart phone apps that show you where chargers are located. Aside from vehicle manufacturer and the charging network apps, the Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center has a station locator (web-based desktop version, mobile version, Apple iPhone & iPod version).
Some public chargers are free. Others charge either a flat fee per charge, a monthly subscription, by the amount of electricity you use, or by how long you use the charger. Charging rates can vary by region and network, and the rates change as public charging develops and different pricing strategies are tested.
Most networks, such as Blink or ChargePoint, have memberships that allow members to use cards or mobile apps to activate the chargers. However, even if you don't have a membership, most allow guest charging, though it might be at a higher rate.
Most vehicles have an option to send you a text or email message once charging is complete. Public charging networks can also send you a text or email message once charging is complete if you have a membership.
Yes. Leaving a fully charged vehicle plugged in at a charger can be very frustrating for others who may need to use it. To prevent long term parking at chargers, some public charging stations will charge by the time that the vehicle is plugged in rather than by the electricity consumed.
Home charger units generally cost between about $400 and $1,000. Installation costs depend on the electrician, the complexity of the installation, and any permits or other fees that are required. Incentives may be available in your state or local area that offset some of the cost.
It depends on a number of factors, so you'll need to decide if it's economical for you. If you have a plug-in hybrid that has a small battery pack and/or you drive a limited number of miles on electricity each day, Level 1 charging may meet your needs. However, if your vehicle has a large battery pack and you drive 50 or more miles a day on electricity, a Level 2 charger may be worth the investment.
Yes. Vehicles and charging stations are designed to prevent electrical shock, even during rainy conditions.
More Information
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Locations
Developing Infrastructure to Charge Plug-In Electric Vehicles
Charging Plug-In Electric Vehicles at Home
Electric Vehicle Charging for Multi-Unit Dwellings
Charging Plug-In Electric Vehicles in Public
Blink Frequently Asked Questions
ChargePoint EV Driver Support: EV Driver FAQ
The Ultimate Guide to Electric Car Charging Networks by plugincars.com
