Charging stations
Plug-in hybrid vehicles and all-electric vehicles require charging stations. Many charging stations are currently free to use, but not all. Since electric vehicle technology is relatively new, one of the biggest concerns for owners is the lack of convenient places to charge their vehicle. While most BEV's have home plug-in capability, a place to charge up outside of the home is a necessity
Here in Maine, charging stations are more prevalent than you might think. Lee Auto Malls have four charging stations for plug in hybrid and full electric vehicles and they are available to the public for free. Our charging stations are at our following dealerships:
There are also a few websites where you can view charging stations in your area:
Networked versus Non-networked charging stations
Non-networked charging stations are not tied to a specific network and are usually free. Networked charging stations are tied to a specific network (sometimes more than one) and can show if a charging stations is currently being used. They will typically be available to find and view on the network's app, or online on their website. They may also require a membership to access and often come with a monetary fee to use. All of the charging stations at Lee Auto Malls are non-networked chargers.
Expanding Maine's Charging Stations
There are also some exciting plans in the works to develop and install additional charging stations along major driving corridors in Maine. Some of the planned corridors include I-95/295, Route 1, Route 27 and Route 201 and Route 302.
In Maine, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are already a viable option for day-to-day driving, and hopefully this information has helped you better understand them. Vehicles like the Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, Honda Clarity Hybrid and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid are great plug-in alternatives to explore when making the decision of your next vehicle. Give us a call to swing into one of our local dealers to learn more.
