Saturday, July 28, 2012

Texas Getting Fast-Charging EV Stations

 
NRG Energy has grown its network of charging stations to include Freedom Stations, a fast-charging option for EV motorists in the Houston and Dallas/Ft. Worth areas in Texas. Freedom Stations give those EV owners who have subscribed to the eVgo network the freedom to charge wherever they find an NRG Energy’s eVgo EV Charging station. 
 
 The fast-charge stations, which feature 480V DC, can recharge 80 percent of EVs in under 30 minutes. NRG plans on having 35 Freedom Station sites in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, and 25 sites in Houston.

Founded by NRG in 2010, eVgo is the country’s first privately-funded charging network, and is the only EV network in the nation offering this fast-charging option. Two types of stations will be available. The eVgo convenience stations will offer Level 2 charging (and yummy snacks) and remain open according to the retailer’s business hours.
 
 The eVgo Freedom Stations will include Level 2 and DC charging areas, and will be accessible 24 hours a day. The stations offer charging docks for two cars at a time, and are compatible with any EV (hopefully even this mobile BBQ, if it comes to the US!), according to Tianna Robinson, a sales rep at Reliant Energy (NRG Energy is its parent company). Anyone with an interest can sign up to become a member and charge at all eVgo Network charging stations.

How quickly can you charge the battery on the EV?


According to the eVgo Network site:

     ”If your car is equipped to accept a DC charge, then a 480-volt quick-charge station can deliver approximately 160 miles per hour of charging. 220/240V (depending on amperage) can deliver up to 24 miles per hour and 110/120V provides approximately 6 miles of range for each hour of charging.”

One charge at the fast-charging station could take you up to 160 miles (more than enough!), depending on the car you drive, and other typical variables, such as road conditions, style of driving, etc… Ms. Robinson noted that a larger EV, something like Ford’s little plug-in project,  might not enjoy the same range. Keep in mind, also, that those 480V are available only at the fast-charge station

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