Your guide to Electric Vehicles

EVs are now much closer to the cost of gasoline cars. For many drivers, they already cost the same or less over time and can save you up to $10,000 over the life of the car.

What does this mean for you:

• You may pay a little more on the purchase, but you often make that money back—and more—over time.
• Charging at home is usually far cheaper than filling up at the pump, and prices are more stable than gas. You can charge your EV for the equivalent of $2.16 per gallon of fuel on an EV rate plan.
• EVs have fewer surprise repair bills and less routine maintenance over the life of the vehicle.
• EVs are no longer a luxury product. They're increasingly priced like mainstream vehicles.

Explore our EV Savings Calculator

By 2025, the average EPA‑rated range for new EVs in the U.S. was 300+ miles. There are many models exceeding that and top vehicles reaching over 500 miles. Real world testing shows many long range EVs deliver 400 to 550 miles depending on conditions.

Recent data shows that modern EV batteries degrade by about 2 to 3% per year. This means most retain around 80 to 85% capacity after 8 to 10 years. Most can last 13 years or more under normal use. Large datasets from fleet and consumer vehicles indicate EV batteries often outlast the usable life of the car itself.

Yes. EVs typically require 30 to 50% less routine maintenance than comparable gasoline cars. The vehicles require less because they have 90% fewer moving parts. This eliminates services like oil changes, spark plugs, and exhaust repairs. You can save up to $10,000 over the life of the car.

Most EV owners charge at home using either a Level 1 or Level 2 charger.

• Level 1 charging uses a standard 120‑volt household outlet and typically adds 3 to 5 miles of range per hour. This charging level makes it suitable for plug‑in hybrids or very short daily commutes.
• Level 2 charging uses a 240‑volt circuit (similar to a dryer outlet). It adds roughly 25 to 40 miles of range per hour. This charging level allows most EVs to fully recharge overnight. Because of its speed and convenience, Level 2 is the most common home‑charging setup for full battery‑electric vehicles. Charging at home is usually the most cost‑effective option. This option lets drivers start each day with a full battery. You will pay residential electricity rates rather than higher public charging prices.

Most homes with 200 amp electrical service can support a Level 2 EV charger without upgrades. Homes with 100 amp service may still work, but often need a load calculation or electrical upgrades. A licensed electrician can quickly confirm whether your panel is sufficient.

Public charging has never been more accessible. California leads the nation in EV charging availability. There are more public chargers statewide than gas nozzles. Nearly 94% of residents live within a 10 minute drive of a public charging station.

Contractors can join PG&E's Trade Ally Network and be connected with customers that are interested in EV charging.