I recently became the owner of an EV (electric vehicle), and I must say, it has been an eye-opening experience. As I embark on this new journey, I’ve gained valuable insights that I believe are worth sharing. So, here are the top five things I’ve learned from my initial week as an EV owner.
1. Going Full Charge: From Phone to Car Batteries
Some people keep their phone batteries topped up at all times, while others live on the wild side, hoping their phone won’t die when they need it most. I used to be in the second camp – always running on near-empty fuel. But owning an EV changed that. It’s best to keep your EV juiced up and ready. Thankfully, with a home charger, refuelling is a breeze. No more cold, 10-minute waits at the servo. Just plug in when you get home. (It takes less than 10 seconds!)
2. Driving on Sunshine: Harnessing Solar Power
My EV runs on sunshine – believe it or not! I’ve got solar panels at home and at the Bluegum office, plus a smart charger. Now, I’m charging my EV with solar power that would have otherwise gone back to the grid. It’s like I’m fuelling up for free. How awesome is that?
3. Battery Benefits for EVs
On those gloomy winter days with no surplus solar power at the Bluegum office, I simply plug my EV in when I get home and use the solar energy stored from the day in my home battery. When I get home after kinder pickup, my 2-year-old reminds me, “Plug the solar in, mummy.”
4. EVs are quick off the mark – and they need quick charging to match
My Volvo XC40, for example, would take nearly 40 hours to charge from a normal powerpoint. That’s why I use a Fronius Watt pilot charger. It charges my EV quickly at 11kW per hour on 3 phase, and it’s dynamic, so it can vary depending on how I want to charge, switching between solar, battery, or grid power automatically as required. Best of all, I just plug in and walk away – easy peasy!
5. It’s part of an ecosystem
Owning an EV is just the start of an exciting, all-electric revolution. Sun-powered, electric homes are our future, and charging your car fast is one piece of the puzzle. With solar, battery and an EV, you can control your home’s energy without sacrificing comfort and help us build a sustainable future – free from the fear of skyrocketing energy bills.
Are you ready to join the electric revolution? Call Bluegum on 1300 306 342 to book your free consult. It’s your first step towards an electrifying future!
