Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions on Electric Vehicles

Q: What is an electric vehicle (EV)?

A: Electric vehicles are driven by electric motors that draw energy from an on-board battery. They have no engines or gas/diesel tanks.

Q: What are some of the advantages of an EV?

A: EVs have significantly fewer moving parts than their gasoline counterparts and therefore require less on-going preventative maintenance including no oil changes and less brake wear. EVs are also quieter and cleaner, with zero tailpipe emissions, and tend to have a lower center of gravity making them more stable.

Q: What special safety considerations should I be aware of with an EV?

A: Operating an EV is similar to operating a gas vehicle. However, EVs have high voltage cables and parts that are generally well protected and out of reach. Do not tamper with any cable or connecter that is orange – these are high voltage systems and can deliver lethal voltages.

Q: How far can I drive this EV?

A: The distance an EV can go on a full charge is called its range, which is specific to each EV model. Range will also vary based on weather conditions and driving practices. Refer to the QR code in your Driver Materials for specifics on your vehicle.

Q: How do I charge my EV battery?

A: Your organization will have a charging plan that may include charging equipment at your workplace, at your home and/or that makes use of public charging. Talk to your fleet manager about your charging options. Familiarize yourselves with the location of the charging port on the vehicle & how to open it. This will allow easy charging when you are at charging location.

Q: How long will it take to charge my EV’s battery?

A: Time to charge will depend on many factors including type of vehicle and its battery size, type and power of charger and to a certain extent, climatic conditions.

Q: Where are there public chargers in my area?

A: Most EVs will have the capability to identify locations of public chargers along a route. Consult the in-vehicle dashboard displays to locate chargers. Your employer (or owner of the vehicle) may also have access to apps that can indicate where public charging is possible. Contact your fleet manager for more information.

Q: Can I charge a vehicle during rain?

A: Yes, the cables connecting the vehicle to the charger are not energized till a safe physical connection between vehicle & charger is made and automatic ground fault testing is performed to ensure safety.

Q: What should I do if I run out of charge?

A: If you run out of charge, attempt to coast the vehicle to a safe location on the side of the road and contact your fleet manager or roadside service for the next steps.

Q: What happens if I get a flat tire on an EV?

A: Tires on EVs are very similar to tires on conventional vehicles. In most cases, your road side assistance service provider will be able to replace your tire. Contact your fleet manager or road side service for next steps.

Q: Can I run my AC/heating when I am on break? Will that reduce range?

A: You can run your AC/heating when you are on a break and sitting in your vehicle. However, keep an eye on the range and be sure not to deplete the battery such that you cannot get to your destination.

Q: My EV did not charge at a charger. What should I do?

A: First step is to ensure that the charging cable is plugged in properly. Visually inspect and if necessary, disconnect and reconnect. The second step is to make certain that you have authorization to charge at that particular station. For assistance in determining if you are at the correct charger, contact your fleet manager. Most public stations will have 1-800 numbers to reach a station operator. In some cases, they will be able to remotely trouble shoot and initiate a charge.

Q: Can I plug in my EV and walk away?

A: Yes, you can. However, you should always be sure that a charging session has started prior to walking away from your vehicle. Ideally make certain that the vehicle dash is reporting that an active charging session is underway.