Hello,
I am picking up my new RAV4 EV today (VIN# 3458). I also own a Leaf. My question is whether it is worth installing a second charger. Those of you who have two EVs, do you have two chargers or swap time between one charger?
I have the Blink unit that was free including installation in 2011 (I have read many negative comments on the Blink unit in this forum, but I have not experienced any problems). I was thinking of possibly getting a Jesla or a JuiceBox to have the portability and increased charge rate. I was also thinking of potentially upgrading my electric panel to have two chargers and take maximum advantage of the low midnight to 7 am PG&E TOU rates. However, in thinking about it more, perhaps I can get by using one charger. My wife and I typically both work at home two days a week (mostly the same days, but not always). Our commutes are roughly the same distance. Although the Leaf's range means it must be charged after every commute day, the RAV4 can make two round trips. Thus, it could potentially be recharged during the nights following the days we work at home. It seems like these are my options:
1) Use the existing charger (40 amp circuit, but Blink recommends charging the RAV4 at 24 amps due to previous heat issues) and swap between cars. Some coordination needed to make sure each car has enough charge when needed.
2) Buy a Jesla or JuiceBox and use the existing 40 amp plug (charging at 32 amp) instead of using the Blink. Some coordination still needed, but charge times are faster, which will help.
3) Upgrade electrical panel and have two chargers. No coordination needed and fastest charge times.
Which option do you suggest? Thanks for your input.
Ron
I am picking up my new RAV4 EV today (VIN# 3458). I also own a Leaf. My question is whether it is worth installing a second charger. Those of you who have two EVs, do you have two chargers or swap time between one charger?
I have the Blink unit that was free including installation in 2011 (I have read many negative comments on the Blink unit in this forum, but I have not experienced any problems). I was thinking of possibly getting a Jesla or a JuiceBox to have the portability and increased charge rate. I was also thinking of potentially upgrading my electric panel to have two chargers and take maximum advantage of the low midnight to 7 am PG&E TOU rates. However, in thinking about it more, perhaps I can get by using one charger. My wife and I typically both work at home two days a week (mostly the same days, but not always). Our commutes are roughly the same distance. Although the Leaf's range means it must be charged after every commute day, the RAV4 can make two round trips. Thus, it could potentially be recharged during the nights following the days we work at home. It seems like these are my options:
1) Use the existing charger (40 amp circuit, but Blink recommends charging the RAV4 at 24 amps due to previous heat issues) and swap between cars. Some coordination needed to make sure each car has enough charge when needed.
2) Buy a Jesla or JuiceBox and use the existing 40 amp plug (charging at 32 amp) instead of using the Blink. Some coordination still needed, but charge times are faster, which will help.
3) Upgrade electrical panel and have two chargers. No coordination needed and fastest charge times.
Which option do you suggest? Thanks for your input.
Ron