Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as people are more conscious of their impact on the environment. With the increasing demand for EVs, the need for efficient charging systems is also growing. In 2023, there are several EV accessories that you must have to ensure that your EV remains charged and ready to go. Buckle Up! As we take you on a ride to the world of EVs – with stops set at EV Charging Accessories and more.
What is an Electric Vehicle(EV)?
In simple terms, it’s a type of vehicle that runs on electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. EVs are powered by an electric motor and a battery pack, which means they don’t produce any harmful emissions or greenhouse gases from the tailpipe. There are different types of EVs, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs are entirely powered by electricity, while PHEVs have both an electric motor and a gasoline engine that can work together to power the vehicle.
Why are EVs becoming so popular? For starters, they have some pretty impressive environmental benefits. Since they don’t produce any emissions, they can help reduce our carbon footprint and improve air quality. Plus, they offer a smooth and quiet driving experience that’s hard to beat. And let’s not forget that they can save you money on fuel costs in the long run. As technology continues to improve, so do the range and performance of EVs. With advancements in battery technology, EVs are becoming a more viable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. So, if you’re looking for a way to reduce your environmental impact and enjoy a sleek, futuristic driving experience, an EV might just be the way to go.
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Best 10 EV accessories in 2023
1. Level 2 Charging Stations
As an EV owner, you know that having a reliable and efficient charging station is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s battery life. That’s where a Level 2 charging station comes in – this must-have accessory can take your EV charging game to the next level. Compared to a standard Level 1 charger, a Level 2 charging station can charge your EV faster, cutting down on the time you spend waiting for your battery to charge up. This is especially important for those with busy schedules who can’t afford to spend hours waiting for their vehicle to charge.
One of the best things about a Level 2 charging station is that it can be easily installed at your home or office. This means you can charge your EV while you work or while you sleep, so you can wake up to a fully charged vehicle without having to stop at a charging station on the way to your destination. Overall, if you want to maximize the convenience and efficiency of your EV charging experience, a Level 2 charging station is a must-have accessory. It can help you save time and hassle, while also providing you with the peace of mind of always having a charged battery ready to go.
2. Charging Cable Organizer
When it comes to owning an electric vehicle, one of the biggest challenges can be managing the charging cables. They can be bulky, difficult to store, and can create tripping hazards if not properly managed. That’s where a charging cable organizer comes in – it’s a must-have accessory for any EV owner who wants to keep their charging cable neat, tidy, and safe. A charging cable organizer can help you keep your cable in check by providing a dedicated space to store it. This can help prevent it from getting tangled, knotted, or damaged, which can extend the life of your cable and ensure it works properly every time you need to use it.
In addition, a charging cable organizer can help prevent tripping hazards in your home or office. By keeping your cable off the ground and out of the way, you can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that everyone stays safe while you charge your EV. Overall, a charging cable organizer is a simple but essential accessory that can make a big difference in your EV charging experience. It can help you stay organized, reduce the risk of accidents, and ensure that your charging cable is always in good condition and ready to use. So, if you want to make your life easier and your charging experience more efficient, a charging cable organizer is definitely worth considering.
3. Portable Charging Cable
As an electric vehicle owner, you rely on having a charged battery to get you where you need to go. However, what happens when you’re away from home and your battery starts to run low? That’s where a portable charging cable comes in – it’s an essential accessory that can keep you charged up and ready to go no matter where you are. A portable charging cable is a compact and lightweight cable that you can easily carry with you in your car or bag. It allows you to charge your EV at any public charging station or outlet, making it a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to be prepared for unexpected charging needs.
Whether you’re traveling on a road trip, running errands around town, or simply exploring new areas, having a portable charging cable can provide peace of mind that you won’t be stranded with a dead battery. It’s also a great way to save time, as you won’t have to spend hours waiting for your battery to charge at a public charging station. Another benefit of a portable charging cable is that it can help you save money on charging costs. Many public charging stations require a membership or a fee to use, but with a portable charging cable, you can take advantage of any available outlet, including those at hotels, restaurants, or even friends’ houses.
4. ChargePoint app
The ChargePoint app is a user-friendly and intuitive app that allows you to search for charging stations in your area. The app provides real-time information about available charging stations, including their location, type of charger, and availability. You can also filter your search results based on the type of connector, charging speed, and payment method. It’s available on both Android and iOS.
Once you find a charging station that suits your needs, you can use the app to start a charging session. This means you can begin charging your EV without having to use a physical key or card. The app also allows you to monitor your charging progress and receive alerts when your charging session is complete.
One of the most significant advantages of the Chargepoint app is that it provides access to thousands of charging stations across the country. This means you can use the app to plan long-distance trips, knowing that you’ll be able to find charging stations along the way. Additionally, the app provides information about the cost of charging at each station, so you can budget accordingly.
5. Smart Charging Timer
If you want to save money on your electricity bill when charging your electric vehicle, a smart charging timer is a must-have accessory. This device allows you to set a schedule for when your EV will charge, so you can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. Off-peak electricity rates typically occur during overnight hours, when demand for electricity is lower. By charging your EV during these hours, you can save money on your electricity bill. However, it can be difficult to remember to plug in your EV at the right time each night. This is where a smart charging timer comes in.
A smart charging timer allows you to set a schedule for when your EV will charge. You can program the device to start and stop charging at specific times, so you can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates without having to remember to plug in your EV each night. One of the most significant benefits of a smart charging timer is that it can help you save money over the long term. By charging your EV during off-peak hours, you can reduce your electricity bill and offset the cost of owning an electric vehicle.
6. Solar Charger
If you’re an environmentally conscious EV owner, a solar charger is a must-have accessory. This device allows you to charge your electric vehicle using clean, renewable energy from the sun. A solar charger typically consists of a solar panel that is installed at your home or office, along with a charging controller that manages the flow of electricity from the solar panel to your EV. During the day, the solar panel absorbs sunlight and converts it into electricity, which is then used to charge your EV.
One of the main benefits of a solar charger is that it allows you to power your EV using clean, renewable energy. This can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally, a solar charger can help you save money on your electricity bill since you’ll be relying on the sun’s energy instead of traditional electricity.
Another advantage of a solar charger is that it can provide a sense of independence and self-sufficiency. You won’t have to rely on public charging stations or worry about finding a place to charge your EV when you’re on the go. Instead, you can simply plug in your vehicle at home or at your office and let the solar charger do the rest.
7. RFID Card
If you frequently use private or restricted charging stations to charge your EV, an RFID card is a must-have accessory. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification, and these cards use radio waves to communicate with the charging station and authorize access. When you have an RFID card, you can simply hold it up to the charging station’s RFID reader, and it will automatically unlock the charging station and allow you to start your charging session. This eliminates the need to enter any passwords or codes and makes the charging process quick and easy.
RFID cards are often used by businesses or organizations that have their own charging stations, and they are a great way to ensure that only authorized users can access the charging station. Some EV charging networks also offer RFID cards to their members, which can provide access to a wide range of charging stations across the country. In addition to providing access to private or restricted charging stations, RFID cards can also help you keep track of your charging sessions. Some charging networks and charging stations are equipped with RFID readers that can record the details of your charging session, such as the amount of energy consumed and the length of the session.
8. EVSE Adapter
Different EV manufacturers use different plug types for their charging cables, which can be a problem if you encounter a charging station with a different plug type than the one you have. An EVSE adapter can help you overcome this problem by allowing you to connect your charging cable to the charging station’s plug.
EVSE adapters come in various types and configurations, depending on the type of plug you need to convert to. Some common types of EVSE adapters include:
- J1772 to Tesla adapter: This adapter allows Tesla owners to charge their vehicles at charging stations with a J1772 plug.
- Tesla to J1772 adapter: This adapter allows EV owners with a J1772 plug to charge their vehicles at Tesla’s proprietary charging stations.
- CHAdeMO to CCS adapter: This adapter allows EV owners with a CHAdeMO plug to charge their vehicles at CCS charging stations.
- CCS to CHAdeMO adapter: This adapter allows EV owners with a CCS plug to charge their vehicles at CHAdeMO charging stations.
By having an EVSE adapter, you can ensure that you can charge your EV at any charging station you come across, regardless of the plug type. This can be particularly useful if you’re traveling to different states or countries, where different plug types may be more common.
9. Cable Lock
One of the concerns that EV owners may have when charging their vehicles in public places is the possibility of theft or tampering with their charging cables. A cable lock is a simple but effective accessory that can help prevent these issues and provide peace of mind while charging. A cable lock is a flexible cable that can be looped around the charging cable and secured with a locking mechanism. This cable can then be attached to a fixed object such as a pole or a rack, preventing anyone from unplugging or stealing your charging cable.
Cable locks come in different lengths and thicknesses, so you can choose one that fits your needs and preferences. Some cable locks also come with a combination lock or a key lock, which can provide additional security. Aside from preventing theft, a cable lock can also help you keep your charging cable organized and prevent tripping hazards, especially in public charging stations where multiple cables may be lying on the ground.
10. Charging Station Weather Cover
A charging station weather cover is a useful accessory to have if you want to protect your EV charging station from the elements. These covers are designed to fit over your charging station and provide protection from rain, snow, and other weather conditions. When exposed to the elements, charging stations can become damaged or malfunction, which can be costly to repair. A weather cover can help prevent this by keeping your charging station dry and protected from any potential damage.
In addition to protecting your charging station, a weather cover can also protect your charging cable from the elements. Wet or damp charging cables can be a safety hazard and may cause damage to your EV or charging station. A weather cover can help keep your charging cable dry and prevent any potential hazards. Weather covers come in various sizes and shapes, so it’s essential to choose one that fits your charging station correctly. Some weather covers also come with added features such as UV protection or ventilation to prevent overheating.
Do not forget to share with us your pick of best EV accessories.
