BMW Charging Guide
If you’ve begun to consider switching to a plug-in hybrid or an all-electric vehicle, you’re probably familiar with their compelling list of benefits including outstanding savings on fuel, exhilarating power delivery, and serene driving characteristics. There’s also another tremendous advantage that comes from owning an electrified vehicle that you may have not previously considered, and that is the potential tax savings that can come from plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and full electric (BEV) vehicles.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-169) amended the Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit (IRC 30D), and is now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit. This new legislation adds a new requirement for final assembly in North America that took effect on August 16, 2022. Additional provisions went into effect on January 1, 2023. Certain BMW models used to qualify for these EV incentives but the new North American final assembly requirement changed their status. Sewickley BMW is standing by to help you choose the right BMW Plug In Hybrid Vehicle or Fully Electric Vehicles for your lifestyle.
EV Charging Types Explained
Level 1
The first level of charging, known as Level 1, is certainly the most common type of charging solution available on electric vehicles with virtually all EVs coming standard with this technology. Best used as a backup solution as opposed to a primary option, Level 1 charging lets you use a standard 120V household outlet. While convenient, this method is much slower than the other types of chargers. You can expect to add approximately 4 miles of range per hour of charge time. Level 1 charging is best used in situations where a full charge isn’t necessary or as a last resort to avoid becoming stranded.
Level 2
Using 240V power at a dedicated home or public station, Level 2 charging is the perfect solution for keeping your BMW EV charged and ready to take on whatever’s on your agenda. With the available BMW Wallbox Level 2 charger, you can fully charge your BMW EV at a 9.6 kW speed in as little as 12 hours. Better still, its clever minimalist design is waterproof so you can install it either in your garage or outside of it. When used as an overnight charging solution, you’ll wake up each morning to a fully-charged vehicle. Even if you need to restore a charge with limited time, it takes just 1 hour to restore 30 miles of driving range using Level 2 charging.
Fortunately, most residential homes already have 240V electrical service for larger appliances like electric dryers and refrigerators. It’s recommended that you trust only a licensed electrician to install a dedicated home charging station. BMW has partnered with Qmerit, the country’s largest installers of electrification solutions.
Level 3
Now we’ve arrived at the fastest way to charge your BMW EV. Level 3 charging, also known as DC Fast Charging, is available at a growing network of public charging stations all across the country. This high-powered charging solution can deliver as much as 90 miles of range in just 10 minutes of charge time. In addition to complimentary charging access to Electrify America’s ever-growing network of charging stations – your BMW EV is also compatible with all open public charging networks. You’ll typically find Level 3 charging stations in high-traffic areas including rest stops, shopping centers, and office complexes. Visit the link below to find a nearby Electrify America charging station today!
My BMW App – Electric Vehicle Services
Right in the palm of your hand, you’ll have access to a wealth of information and remote services created exclusively for your BMW EV. From monitoring the charge status of your battery to planning your next road trip based on the charging network, this convenient app enhances your EV ownership experience. Below, you’ll find a list of key features that you can enjoy via the My BMW App.
- Pre-Conditioning – Before you even enter your vehicle, this feature is able to optimize both the battery and cabin temperatures so you can maximize your vehicle’s range and get comfortable for the journey.
- Route Planning – Simply choose your destination and your BMW will automatically route the trip, accounting for charge stations to maximize your range.
- Vehicle Status & Range – From virtually anywhere, you can check and monitor the charge status and remaining driving range of your BMW EV so you’re always prepared.
Find Your Local Charging Station