Electric Vehicles

Since being introduced in 2011, modern electric vehicles, or EVs, have greatly grown in popularity. This recent rise of EVs can be attributed to their efficiency and growing list of consumer benefits. In fact, EVs are more efficient, cleaner, and less expensive to drive than conventional cars and trucks.

As EVs become more prominent, the electric and auto industries continue to connect and collaborate to grow this new technology. BrightRidge seeks to be at the forefront of this growth by supporting the building of EV charging stations in our community. BrightRidge is working to ensure that those who are choosing to drive electric cars have an opportunity to recharge while visiting and enjoying local amenities and attractions within its service territory.

Read more about electric vehicles and their advantages below.

What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)?

EVs rely on electric motors and battery storage instead of internal combustion engine (ICE) for propulsion; therefore, they use electricity as a fuel source unlike standard fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Currently, there are three main types of electric vehicles. Each type uses electricity either as its primary fuel source or as a secondary source to improve gas efficiency.

All-Electric Vehicles (AEVs)

AEVs are powered by one or more electric motors. They receive electricity by plugging into the grid and storing energy in batteries. They consume no petroleum-based fuel and produce no tailpipe emissions. AEVs include Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
Examples: Chevy Bolt or Nissan LEAF

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

PHEVs are powered by an internal combustion engine and electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. The vehicle can be plugged in to an electric power source to charge the battery. Some can travel nearly 100 miles on electricity alone, and all can operate solely on gasoline.
Examples: Chevy Volt or Chrysler Pacifica

Hybrid Electric (HEVs)

HEVs are powered by an internal combustion engine and electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine. It does not need to be plugged in to charge.
Examples: Toyota Prius Hybrid or Honda Civic Hybrid

What are the advantages of EVs?

Lower Operating Costs EV operation can be three to five times cheaper than gasoline and diesel powered cars, depending on current gasoline and electric rates.
Environmentally Friendly EVs have no tailpipe emissions; therefore, they have a lower environmental impact.
Improved Performance Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation, stronger acceleration, and require less maintenance than gasoline powered internal combustion engines.
Reduce Dependence on Fossil Fuels EVs do not require gasoline and can be charged at home with a standard 120V outlet or 240V level 2 charger for a faster, more efficient charge.
Going the Distance EV range is typically around 80 to over 300 miles on a full charge. The average American’s daily round-trip commute is less than 30 miles.

EV Charging Stations

BrightRidge supports electric vehicles in our community by helping provide EV charging stations throughout our service territory.

	Hands On! Discovery Center at the ETSU Gray Fossil Site 1212 Suncrest Dr, Gray, TN 37615 Level 2 Charging: FREE
	BrightRidge 2600 Boones Creek Rd, Johnson City, TN 37615 Level 2 Charging: FREE
	King Commons 201 N. Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601 Level 2 Charging: $1.00 per hour
	Jonesborough Visitor’s Center 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659 Level 2 Charging: $1.00 per hour

Charging Stations in Your Community

By using PlugShare.com, you can find other charging stations in your community to make recharging easy!

FIND CHARGING STATIONS

EV Charging Basics

Electric vehicles need to be recharged regularly. They can be plugged in either at home or at public charging stations. These different types of charging situations can be categorized into 3 levels.

It’s important to note that most drivers travel less than 50 miles a day, so even a relatively slow Level 1 charger will meet the daily recharging needs of most people wanting to switch from a gasoline vehicle to an electric.

Level 1 Charging

The easiest recharging option is to plug your EV in at home. Home charging uses a grounded 120-volt outlet. Since almost all EVs include a 120-volt charging cord and 120-volt outlets are common, this is likely the cheapest and easiest option. Overnight Level 1 charging is suitable for low- and medium-range plug-in hybrids and for all-electric battery electric vehicle drivers with low daily driving usage. On average, it will take 17-25 hours to fully charge an EV with a 100-mile battery.

Level 2 Charging

For a faster recharge, Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt outlet. This will require the purchase of a home charging unit (and possibly the need for modifications to the home’s electrical system) or a visit to a public charging station. On average, it will take 4-5 hours to fully charge an EV with a 100-mile battery.
To have a Level 2 charging available at your home or business, simply purchase a charging unit and then contact an certified electrician to install. Some of the more common charging brands are ClipperCreek and ChargePoint.

Level 3 (DC Fast) Charging

Level 3 or DC charging is currently the fastest recharging method available. It can typically add 50 to 90 miles in 30 minutes, depending on the station’s power capacity and the EV make. Tesla’s Superchargers are even faster, adding up to 170 miles of range in a half hour. DC fast chargers are most useful for longer trips, cars in use most of the day (like taxis), or drivers who have limited access to home recharging.

EV Charging Costs

The cost to charge an EV varies, but recharging an EV is substantially cheaper than the cost to refuel the average new gasoline car. In the BrightRidge service territory, an EV averages 38 miles per $1.00 with in-home charging. That is significantly less than the average cost per gallon to refuel a vehicle operated by gas. *Recharging at a public charging station may have higher costs depending on unit.

Fuel Savings Calculator

Estimate your potential fuel savings from switching to an electric vehicle!

LEARN MORE AT TVA.GOV

EV Incentives & Offers

Federal Incentives

The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy offers financial incentives, including tax credits, for lowering the up-front costs of plug-in electric vehicles.

LEARN MORE AT ENERGY.GOV

TVA Incentives

TVA currently offers a rebate for the Nissan Leaf that BrightRidge customers qualify for. Click the button below to learn about TVA's EV offerings!

LEARN MORE AT TVA.GOV

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