Plug-In Electric Vehicles

Plug-In Electric Vehicles

Plug-in Electric Vehicles (PEVs) refers to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles:

  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are vehicles that run on gas and electric (or battery).
  • Electric Vehicles (EVs) run purely on electric from a battery.

Plug-in Electric Vehicles Offer Three Great Benefits

  1. Low Maintenance: Because Battery Electric Vehicles do not have a transmission or combustion engine, eliminating oil changes, fuel filters, emissions testing and other costly maintenance, there is a cost savings. A simplified drive train and braking system also means greater reliability and fewer potential repairs, too.
  2. Low Environmental Impact: About one-third of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation, and 60 percent of that is from personal vehicle use. Plug-in electric vehicles have fewer emissions than a gasoline engine. Studies have shown that a mass shift from gas-powered cars to plug-in hybrids or electric vehicles would result in lower pollution, including lower emissions of greenhouse gases.
  3. Good Fuel Economy: Electric vehicles are less costly to run because they use electricity for all or part of their power.

PEVs are becoming easier to find. Many car manufacturers now offer PEVs and many more are working on developing new models.

We’re Proud To Support Electric Vehicle Adoption

  • Learn more about why CMP is involved with electric vehicles
  • Find answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about electric vehicles below

Additional Resources and Information

Related Links

Please read the Frequently Asked Questions below for additional information.

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Normal U.S. voltage for an appliance (such as a hair dryer) is 120 volts.  Level 1 electric vehicle charger is 120V.  Higher U.S. voltage for larger appliances (such as an electric clothes dryer) is 240 volts.  Level 2 electric vehicle charger is 240V.  Level 2 chargers will recharge a vehicle at a faster rate.

For a vehicle that can be charged at 120 volts, you can use a standard outlet with an appropriate adapter. You should consult a licensed electrician to ensure your wiring will allow you to do so.

While charging a vehicle will be done typically overnight at home, public charging stations are becoming more and more available. Visit Afdc.energy.gov for a list of public electric vehicle charging stations. Charging levels, hours of operation and access vary by location. Contact your local officials to find out.

It varies by car, manufacturer and the type of charger used. For example:

  • A Level 1 charger provides charging through a standard 120V outlet. This type of charging may typically provide about 4 miles per hour of charge.
  • A Level 2 charger provides charging through a standard 240V outlet. This type of charging may typically provide about 25 miles per hour of charge.

Consult the auto and/ or charger manufacturer for more information.

Before purchasing a PEV, research where you can charge it. Contact your property management.

Numerous studies have shown that a large number of PEVs could be on the grid at one time. We are incorporating the additional usage of PEVs in our electricity load forecasting.

Consult your vehicle manufacturer on the requirements for the car. The costs for charging your new vehicle will be included in your regular monthly utility bill – just like a new appliance. We will not need to do anything differently before you can enjoy your PEV.

Consult your vehicle manufacturer on the requirements for the car and a licensed electrician for questions about your home electrical outlet needs.

CMP has two Time-of-Use rates that may be of benefit to customers charging electric cars, although they are not specific to electric vehicle use. For more information, you can read about these rates on the Pricing page, and call us at 1.800.750.4000 or email customer.service@cmpco.com.

It will be included in your overall monthly kWh usage.

Efficiency Maine Trust provides a rebate program on qualifying electric vehicles. See if the vehicle you’re interested in qualifies.

Certain plug-in electric vehicles may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit of up to $7,500. Visit Fuel Economy.gov for more information.

Resources for consumers considering the purchase of a plug-in electric vehicle:

Any questions related to a specific car or questions about car comparisons should be directed to the auto manufacturer. Specific questions about fuel cell technology or any alternative fuels can be directed to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center.

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