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Steve R.
2018 Chevy Bolt
Swanzey, NH
“I was involved with alternative fuels for transportation and needed to walk the talk.”
What’s your #1 tip or piece of advice for new or prospective EV owners?
Install a level 2 charger at your house. Charging at home is great.
Read on to learn about Steve’s EV story – including buying, driving, owning, & charging his EV!
buying an ev
What main factors & considerations went into your decision to buy an EV?
I was involved with alternative fuels for transportation and needed to walk the talk. The environmental impacts are very important to use as well. Also I was tired of crawling under my vehicles to change the oil.
What factors sold you on buying an EV? Why did you pick the specific make & model of EV that you did?
We started with the Nissan Leaf which we really liked but the range of 100 miles was an issue. The bolt with its 200+ range was very helpful in New England.
driving & owning an ev
What is your favorite aspect of the EV driving experience?
Peppy, quiet, one pedal driving.
In a few sentences, summarize your favorite EV memory or anecdote.
The random conversations with the public when they see we are driving an EV. It is always a teachable moment.
What surprised you about owning an EV?
The low cost of maintenance.
What is the main downside or challenge of driving or owning an EV compared to an ICE vehicle? What tricks have you developed to adapt to that challenge?
If you travel long distances the availability of dependable charging infrastructure might be an issue.
Charging an EV
Where do you charge your EV? Do you have an at-home charger?
We have a clipper creek level 2 charger it was easy to install.
What are a few of your favorite charging resources you use?
There are several apps to locate chargers in the US and Canada so make sure you get them. Also the chargers have different ways to pay so sign up for all the accounts EV go, Semmaconnect, Electrify America and ChargePoing because there is no consistent way to bill for use when there are costs involved. Also do not worry if you do not have a card to activate a charger. They all have a number posted on the charger so call to activate the charging session.