Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the auto industry. With a growing number of makes and models available as well as federal and state incentives, owning an EV is practical for many budgets and lifestyles. NRG is excited to provide resources to help guide you in your EV journey because we believe tomorrow’s roadways will look drastically different from today’s.
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Special Offers for EV Owners
EV Power Charger Plan
Put your sustainability goals in the fast lane with price security for one year and receive an Emporia Level 2 EV charger for fast, efficient electric vehicle charging when you enroll with NRG.
Electric Plan for Electric Vehicle Owners
Get 100% renewable energy, a fixed-price electricity plan to protect you from price spikes, and a lower price at night, perfect for charging your car.
EV Industry Trends
Millions of Americans have switched to driving electric and there are no signs of it slowing down. In fact, some of the world’s leading research organizations report that sales of internal combustion engines (ICEs) have already peaked. Studies estimate that electric vehicles will account for 26% of new car sales in the U.S. in 2030, rising to 60% in 2040. Major factors of the increase in EVs include falling EV battery prices and tighter emissions regulations.
Benefits of Electric Cars
Electric vehicles have many benefits for the tech-savvy, environmentally-conscious and those looking to invest in a car that will save them long-term.
Cost Effective
Electric cars cost less to operate, so the higher initial vehicle cost can be offset over its lifetime.
More Efficient
An EV electric drive system is 60-73% efficient on its own and 77-100% efficient with regenerative braking. Traditional gasoline engines are only 25-36% efficient, so not only do electric vehicles have much better fuel economies, they can produce tangible savings.
Less Maintenance
Fewer moving parts means less maintenance. Fully electric vehicles equal no more timing belts, transmission fluid, spark plugs or emissions checks.
Better Performance
EVs are quiet, surprisingly fast, produce less vibrations, and are highly responsive, resulting in a refreshingly different driving experience compared to their gas-powered counterparts.
Environmental Stewardship
Increased fuel economies and zero tail pipe emissions result in improved air qualities and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, the leading cause of climate change. See the positive impact driving an EV can have in your community.
National Security
Because electricity is a domestic energy source, using it to power vehicles rather than gasoline reduces the country’s dependence on imported fuels.
Federal and State Incentives for EVs
There are various state and federal incentives available for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and all-electric vehicles (EVs). The federal income tax credit alone may save you up to $7,500, and state incentive programs could mean even more savings for going electric.
Types of EVs
All-Electric Cars (AEV)
AEVs run exclusively on battery-powered electricity and has to be plugged in to charge.
Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEV)
PHEVs run on battery-powered electricity and gasoline in tandem and can charge via plug.
Hybrid Electric Cars (HEV)
HEVs run on battery-powered electricity and gasoline but cannot be plugged in to charge.
Shop & Compare EVs
In the market for an electric car but need help getting started? PlugStar's EV shopping tool helps you narrow down the EV market to find the best car for your needs.
Electric Vehicle Charging
EV owners have a few different EV charging options, so it’s relatively easy to find one that best suits your lifestyle and schedule. The three most common charging options have a wide range of features and costs.
| Level 1 Charger | Level 2 Charger | DC Fast Charger | |
| Charge Speed | 4 miles per hour of charging | 25 miles per hour of charging | 200 miles per hour of charging |
| Outlet type | 120 V (standard home outlet) | 240 V | 480+ V (available in public sites) |
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Level 1 Charger
Level 1 chargers are often the most const-efficient option, but also take the longest to charge at 4 miles of use per hour of charging. These are a convenient option as many EV dealers provide this connection with the purchase of an electric car and they can be used on your standard home outlets. This type of charger works best if you can charge your EV overnight or have the option to charge it during the day at home or in the office.
Level 2 Charger
Level 2 chargers can also be used in your home, but provide you with a higher charging price at 25 miles of use per hour of charging. These chargers need a 240-volt power source, which is what you’d use for a large appliance. If you have an irregular schedule or long commute, this may be a better fit for you. Many public charging stations have these available as well, so you have a little more flexibility with where you charge on a Level 2 charger.
Level 3 Charger
Level 3 chargers are by far the fastest at charging your EV, but are expensive and can’t be used with an outlet you’d normally find at home. You’ll get about 200 miles of use per hour of charging, so if you need a quick boost you can stop at a public charging station that carries them.
Connect Your EV in the My NRG App
If you’re enrolled on our EV Plan, you can register your EV in our mobile app to see your range and battery life, schedule charging, find charging stations near you, and view environmental impacts and savings easily. We currently offer this feature to owners of select EV models, but we’re expanding soon!
Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?
Electric cars produce virtually zero emissions while they’re being driven, but charging car batteries and the materials used to make these batteries have their own environmental impact. See how these effects balance out.
Are Electric Cars Cheaper in the Long Run?
The popularity of electric cars grows as manufacturers introduce affordable models that can drive farther on a single charge. While electric cars are great for the environment, is it great for your wallet?
Should I Buy an Electric Car?
Electric cars are becoming more popular among consumers and car makers for their impressive technology and positive environmental impact. When deciding whether an electric car is right for you, consider these benefits as well as the trade-offs.
