Electric vehicle prices are coming down, but the cost of chargers has always hovered in the $1,000-$2,000 range. That's changing with the introduction of a residential charger for a scant $450.
The new charging system is produced and sold by Bosch, the behemoth automotive supplier that provides car makers with everything from window switches to advanced electrical components. Currently, Bosch has a $950 charger, the Power Xpress on sale, but the company has distilled that same technology into a more affordable package with its new Power Max system.
“We believe that for the foreseeable future most EV drivers will primarily charge at home,” says Tanvir Arfi, President of Bosch's automotive service solutions. “Because many of the incentives available to offset the costs of purchasing and installing residential Level 2 charging stations are expiring, we believe it’s critical to maintain the momentum towards Level 2 by offering high quality, but lower cost charging solutions."
The Power Max offers 240 volt, Level 2 charging – the same as more expensive systems offered by other companies, as well as automakers like BMW and Ford – and comes equipped with a 12-foot cable, which is generally the most expensive part of the charging station.
The base model for $450 charges at 16 amps, but an upgraded version with either an 18-foot or 25-foot cable and 30-amps worth of juice will start at $600.
The only downside is by reducing the cost, Bosch had to lose some of its networked features, including the ability to connect with smart-home systems that keep track of overall energy use. But still, at $450, it's a steal, and ordering is available through Bosch's PlugInNow site, with deliveries beginning in June.
