Lemac Power - Blog #Home Charging

EV savings: Calculate your savings here

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:10:15 +0000

Ditch Fuel Bills: Calculate Your EV Charging Savings Now!

Are petrol prices making you wince every time you fill up? You're not alone. It feels like every journey starts with a mini-budget crisis at the pump! That's why so many drivers are making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). Beyond the eco-benefits and that super-smooth, quiet ride, there's a big question on everyone's mind: Will an EV actually save me money?

The answer, in short, is a resounding YES, for most drivers. But "most" isn't good enough, right? You want to know about you. Your driving habits, your current car, your electricity costs – these all play a part.

That's why we at Lemac Power have created something really useful: an interactive EV Savings Calculator right here on this page! No more guesstimates or confusing formulas. Just plug in a few details, and you'll instantly see the potential savings of switching to electric and charging smarter with a Lemac Power home charger.

Let's face it, while saving the planet is a fantastic bonus, for many of us, the day-to-day cost is what really matters. Petrol prices jump around like crazy, influenced by everything from global events to local supply. Electricity prices? Generally much more stable and, crucially, often significantly cheaper per mile.

Think about it: powering your car from your home electricity supply is like having your own personal fuel station, with prices you can often control, especially if you switch to an off-peak charging tariff.

Want to supercharge those savings? Home charging is the answer. It's not just about convenience (although waking up to a fully charged car every day is pretty amazing). It's about smart economics:

Cheaper Energy: Home electricity is usually cheaper than public charging points. Time-of-use tariffs can slash your overnight charging costs even further.
Total Control: You decide when to charge, taking advantage of the cheapest electricity rates and fitting charging perfectly into your lifestyle.
No More Petrol Station Detours: Say goodbye to those time-wasting, overpriced petrol station visits!

And this is where Lemac Power EV Chargers come into their own. Engineered for safe, fast, and reliable home charging, Lemac Power chargers put you in command of your EV's running costs. They are designed to be user-friendly and built to last, ensuring your EV is always ready to go, without emptying your bank account.

Plus, think of it this way: those fuel savings aren't just pocket money. Over time, they can significantly offset the initial cost of installing a Lemac Power home charger itself! Imagine your reduced running costs gradually paying for the convenience and control of home charging – it's a smart investment that keeps on giving.

Ready to Calculate Your Savings? Try Our Interactive Calculator!

Enough talk, let's get to the numbers that matter to you. Use our super-easy EV Savings Calculator below. Just pop in a few details about your current car, your driving, and the EV you're considering. In seconds, you'll see a personalised estimate of your potential savings.

Switching to an EV is a win-win: better for the environment and brilliant for your bank balance. And with a Lemac Power EV Charger at home, you're not just joining the electric revolution, you're taking control of your energy costs and driving towards a future of cheaper, cleaner motoring.

Want to learn more and explore the Lemac Power range? Click here to discover the perfect home charging solution for you and start saving!

Electric Thrills Meet Italian Style

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 12:02:22 +0000

Introducing the Electrifying Abarth 600e

Abarth is turning up the heat in the EV world with the new Abarth 600e, a high-performance hot hatch that combines its racing heritage with electrification. Billed as the most powerful Abarth yet, it offers two versions: the standard 600e with 240 HP and the exclusive Scorpionissima, delivering an impressive 280 HP and just 1,949 units available. With acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in as little as 5.9 seconds and a max speed of 124 mph, this model is packed with the kind of thrills Abarth fans love—only this time, they’re electric

The Abarth 600e’s bold exterior is crafted for performance. With aggressive lines, a low-slung “shark nose” bumper, and aerodynamic enhancements like an aero spoiler and rear diffuser, this EV is as functional as it is fierce. Available in vibrant colors like Acid Green and Hypnotic Purple, the 600e cuts an impressive silhouette, especially on its striking 20-inch alloy wheels. The limited-edition Scorpionissima adds even more racing flair with unique decals and black accents.

Excited? UK orders for the Abarth 600e open in mid-November, starting at £36,975. To maximize your at-home EV experience, pairing the Abarth 600e with a Lemac Power home charger ensures reliable, efficient charging, while the Utility Warehouse EV tariff makes it even more affordable to keep your Scorpion charged and ready. With only a limited number of Scorpionissima units available, this hot hatch is poised to be a hit with fans of Abarth's electrifying evolution. Get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of speed, style, and sustainability!

Inside, the Abarth 600e is a sports car dream come true. The cabin is designed with racing in mind, featuring supportive Sabelt seats that wrap you in comfort and hold you tight through every turn. The Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel maximizes grip for precision driving, and high-end touches like aluminium pedals and a 10.25-inch infotainment system make every drive feel like a lap on the track. The Scorpionissima edition even includes a unique sound generator, providing an engine-like experience that complements its powerful electric motor.

Underneath its striking looks, the Abarth 600e packs serious power with three selectable driving modes, ranging from Turismo for smooth efficiency to Scorpion Track for maximum performance. With up to 345 Nm of torque, the Scorpionissima is always ready for action, while the standard model offers a still-impressive 207-mile range (WLTP combined). A battery cooling system keeps performance high, even under pressure, and advanced features like a limited-slip differential make cornering feel sharp and controlled.

Vauxhall's new Mokka revealed

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 13:34:25 +0000

Bold, Stylish and Fully Electrified

The Vauxhall Mokka has always stood out in the compact SUV market, and its latest update reinforces its status as a bold, modern choice. The sleek design, featuring Vauxhall's signature Vauxhall Vizor, perfectly blends style and innovation. The new Vauxhall Blitz badge takes center stage, flanked by updated LED lighting that gives the car a dynamic, uncompromising look. For those who prefer a sportier aesthetic, the Mokka GS variant enhances the SUV's appearance with sleek black accents that catch the eye on every road.

As part of the Stellantis Group, Vauxhall’s push for electrification is part of a broader trend. Other standout models include the fully electric Vauxhall Corsa-e, a practical and affordable compact EV, and the spacious Vauxhall Vivaro-e Life MPV, ideal for families or businesses. For SUV lovers, the Peugeot e-2008 offers a stylish electric alternative, while the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense brings luxury and elegance to the electric vehicle market, rounding out Stellantis’ impressive lineup.

The real star of the show is the Vauxhall Mokka Electric, a powerful and sustainable SUV offering up to 250 miles of range. With its 115 kW motor and instant torque, the Mokka Electric is both fun and eco-friendly, delivering quick acceleration and smooth driving in every scenario. Starting at €36,740, it’s a perfect option for drivers ready to embrace a greener future without sacrificing performance or style.

The new Vauxhall Mokka exemplifies the future of bold, stylish, and sustainable mobility. With its sleek exterior, modern interior, and high-tech features, it offers an exciting option for anyone looking to make the switch to electric driving. The Mokka Electric brings exceptional range, impressive performance, and cutting-edge technology to drivers seeking an eco-friendly yet thrilling experience. Explore Vauxhall’s latest innovations alongside other electrified models from Stellantis, and join Lemac Power in driving toward a more sustainable future.

Inside, the Mokka’s interior design continues to impress. Vauxhall has embraced a ‘detox’ approach, creating a minimalist, driver-centric cabin that is both functional and stylish. The flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel adds a sporty touch, while the streamlined centre console replaces physical buttons with an intuitive touchscreen. Sustainable materials, including recycled fabrics, further highlight Vauxhall’s commitment to eco-friendly design, ensuring that the Mokka is as kind to the planet as it is enjoyable to drive.

Technologically, the new infotainment system makes the Mokka a tech-savvy driver’s dream. With a 10-inch digital driver display and an equally large color touchscreen, the system offers easy-to-use widgets and voice commands. The Mokka Electric’s system goes a step further, offering electric vehicle (EV) routing and charging station integration, while wireless smartphone connectivity keeps drivers connected on the go. Vauxhall’s commitment to convenience is evident with over-the-air updates and smartphone app integration, ensuring the Mokka’s tech stays ahead of the curve.

Small SUV, Big Perfomance

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:40:12 +0000

Will Hyundai's latest EV be an INTSER(nant) hit in the market?

The EV world is buzzing with excitement as new small electric vehicles are making their mark. Whether it’s the tech-forward Hyundai INSTER, the fun-sized Renault 4, or the chic Fiat Grande Panda, there’s no shortage of stylish, efficient, and eco-friendly options for urban driving and beyond. With more options than ever, it's an exciting time for anyone considering the switch to electric—and the perfect moment to think about pairing your new EV with a Lemac Power home charger!

In this post, we’ll take a look at one of the most exciting small electric cars launched recently and discuss why having a Lemac Power 7kW home charger can make your EV experience even smoother.

The Hyundai INSTER, Hyundai's first small SUV EV for the European market. With a starting price of £23,495, the INSTER offers impressive range and charging speeds, making it ideal for both city drivers and those taking longer journeys. Its long-range version can deliver up to 229 miles on a single charge, which means you can confidently tackle longer trips without frequent stops for charging. We've covered it before, but now Hyundai have released prices and specifications for the UK.

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin packed with advanced features that make driving easier and more enjoyable. The interface is intuitive, and with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, staying connected while on the go has never been simpler.

One of the standout features of the INSTER’s interior is its clever use of space. The front row seating is designed to offer walk-through access, giving the cabin an open and airy feel, while all seats—yes, even the driver’s seat—can fold completely flat, offering impressive cargo flexibility. Whether you’re loading up for a road trip or need to make a quick run to the hardware store, the INSTER has you covered.

But it’s not just about performance—the INSTER has style in spades. From its clean, flush surfaces to its pixel-inspired front bumper and LED lighting signature, the INSTER turns heads. If you’re looking for a small EV that doesn’t skimp on design, you’ve found it. And for those who like a bit of personalization, Hyundai offers a two-tone exterior option with a contrasting black roof and a choice between 15-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim.

The design is as practical as it is stylish. The SUV's small profile makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets, while still offering plenty of space inside, with fold-flat seats that allow for maximum flexibility.

Its design? Bold and fresh. With flush surfaces, pixel graphics, and a two-tone option, the INSTER turns heads. The vehicle comes with a 42kWh battery as standard, but for those wanting more, there’s an optional 49kWh battery delivering 115PS of power. Inside, Hyundai continues its tradition of top-tier technology with a 10.25-inch digital cluster and infotainment touchscreen, offering seamless control at your fingertips. Add a customizable interior, and the INSTER isn’t just functional; it’s personalizable to suit your style.

Whether you’re drawn to the Hyundai INSTER for its impressive range, cutting-edge technology, or striking design, one thing is clear: this small SUV is redefining what it means to drive electric. And with the Lemac Power 7kW home charger at your disposal, owning an EV has never been more convenient. With home charging tariffs as low as 7p per kWh - the 43kWh model could be as cheap as 35p to recharge from 20-80%.

As more small electric vehicles hit the market—like the Renault 4 and the Fiat Grande Panda—there’s never been a better time to join the electric revolution. But having the right charging solution is key to making the switch truly seamless.

Ready to power up your EV lifestyle? Get in touch with Lemac Power today to find out more about how our 7kW home charger can keep your Hyundai INSTER (or any EV) charged and ready to go, day after day.

Stay connected with Lemac Power’s Everything EV feed for more updates on the latest electric vehicles and the best ways to charge them!

Join the Electric Revolution with Škoda Elroq

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:32:03 +0000

The Škoda Elroq: Affordable, Stylish, and Eco-Friendly

If you in the market for a stylish, eco-friendly vehicle that doesn't break the bank, then look no further than the Škoda Elroq, the brand's latest all-electric compact SUV. Starting at around £31,500 , the Elroq makes its debut as the most affordable EV in its segment while delivering impressive performance, style, and comfort.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Elroq such a fantastic option for both city living and outdoor adventures.

Sleek Design for the Modern Driver

The Elroq isn’t just about being eco-friendly—it’s about looking good while doing it. The SUV introduces Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language, which emphasizes clean lines and a minimalist approach to exterior aesthetics. The glossy black Tech-Deck Face replaces the traditional grille, giving the vehicle a bold, futuristic look.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Elroq is designed for versatility. Its spacious interior and precise handling make it just as suitable for navigating tight city streets as it is for off-road adventures. With up to 1,580 litres of luggage space and an aerodynamically efficient body, it’s a practical and stylish companion for any journey.

Loaded with Features

One of the Elroq’s key selling points is its extensive standard equipment. Even the base model comes equipped with a 13-inch infotainment system, rear-view camera, SmartLink technology, and safety features like Crew Protect Assist and Side Assist. Škoda has also introduced advanced materials and design elements that prioritize sustainability, aligning the vehicle with the brand’s commitment to greener practices.

Driving Comfort and Convenience

The Elroq doesn't just excel in performance and technology; it also ensures a comfortable driving experience. The spacious interior is crafted with sustainable materials, and the new Simply Clever features include additional storage compartments and a charging cable storage net, making it both family-friendly and business-ready.

For those long road trips or daily commutes, you’ll appreciate the Elroq's intuitive connectivity features and up to nine airbags for superior safety. The advanced assistance systems and adaptive lighting modes further enhance driving comfort and safety, giving you peace of mind on every trip.

Performance Meets Efficiency

If you’re worried about range anxiety, rest assured that the Elroq has you covered. With three different battery sizes to choose from, the Elroq can achieve a range of up to 355 miles on a single charge. Charging is fast and convenient, with DC fast-charging capabilities that can take the battery from 10% to 80% in just 28 minutes.

For those who want even more power, the Elroq 85x comes with an all-wheel-drive option, making it a capable vehicle for rugged terrains or tough weather conditions. No matter which model you choose, you’re guaranteed a smooth, eco-friendly driving experience.

Why the Elroq Stands Out

The Škoda Elroq is a game-changer in the compact SUV market. Not only does it offer price parity with its ICE counterpart, the Karoq, but it also comes at a time when the shift to electric vehicles is becoming increasingly important for drivers across Europe. Whether you're a family looking for an affordable EV, a business seeking a fleet vehicle, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Elroq delivers.

Škoda has made it easier for car buyers to make the switch to electric with flexible financing options and attractive leasing rates. And with state subsidies available in many markets, the Elroq becomes an even more affordable option.

Order Yours Soon

Interested in making the switch to electric with the Škoda Elroq? You’re in luck! Škoda will open pre-orders for the Elroq on October 2, with deliveries starting in early 2025. The First Edition model comes with exclusive features like a Light Band connecting the headlights and a black-painted roof, so don’t miss your chance to own one of the first in this exciting new line.

Whether you’re looking for sustainability, style, or cutting-edge technology, the Škoda Elroq ticks all the boxes. Keep an eye out for its launch—it’s sure to be one of the most talked-about EVs of the year!

The compact and minimalist design of the Lemac Power charger ensures that it doesn’t take up much space or clash with the overall sleek design of the Elroq, allowing both car and charger to stand out in a well-curated space. The sophisticated technology within the Lemac Power charger is housed in a modern, streamlined unit, reflecting the innovation and forward-thinking design of the Škoda Elroq.

These elements make the Lemac Power charger an ideal partner for the stylish, forward-thinking Elroq owner looking to maintain a high standard of design in all aspects of their EV experience.4o

Making the Most of EV Savings

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:43:47 +0000

Electric vehicle (EV) owners are always looking for ways to reduce their charging costs, and with the right combination of a smart energy tariff and an efficient home charger, the savings can be significant. Pairing the new Utilities Warehouse (UW) EV tariff with a Lemac Power 7kW Charger is an excellent way to drive down costs and enjoy convenient, hassle-free charging.

Off-peak tariffs allow you to charge your EV during hours when energy demand is low, often at a fraction of the standard rate. The UW EV tariff stands out with its highly competitive 7p/kWh off-peak rate, making it one of the best options on the market for cost-conscious drivers.

Pairing the Utilities Warehouse EV tariff with a Lemac Power 7kW Charger offers even greater benefits:

Cost Savings: By using the Lemac Power smart charger, you can easily schedule charging during the UW off-peak window (12am to 5am), ensuring you always benefit from the 7p/kWh rate. For most EV owners, this could mean over 75% in savings compared to standard rates and public charging.

Smart Charging Features: Lemac Power chargers are equipped with smart functionality, allowing you to set your charging sessions to start automatically during off-peak hours. You won’t need to worry about manually adjusting your charger every night—simply plug in your EV, and the charger will handle the rest.

Optimized for Home Use: The Lemac Power 7kW charger is perfect for overnight home charging, delivering a full charge for most EVs within the UW off-peak window. Whether you have a Nissan Leaf, a Kia e-Niro, or any other EV or PHEV model, this pairing ensures your car is ready to go each morning at a fraction of the cost.

Bundled Savings with UW: Utilities Warehouse doesn’t just help you save on electricity—by bundling your gas, broadband, and mobile services, you can cut costs across your household bills, making UW one of the best all-around options for budget-conscious homeowners.

For example, charging a Nissan Leaf (40kWh battery) using the UW tariff costs just £2.80 for a full charge. By comparison, a standard home tariff at 22.36p/kWh would cost £8.94, while public chargers average £20 or more. Clearly, the savings with UW and other off peak tariffs are substantial.

Tariff Provider	Off-Peak Rate	Off-Peak Window	Cost of a 40kWh charge
Utilities Warehouse	7p/kWh	5h (12am to 5am)	£2.80
Octopus Go	7.5p/kWh	4h (12:30am to 4:30am)	£3.00
British Gas Electric	9p/kWh	5h (12am to 5am)	£3.60
EDF GoElectric 35	9p/kWh	5 Hours (12am to 5am)	£3.60
Standard Home Tariff	22.36p/kWh	N/A	£8.94
Public Charging	56p/kWh	N/A	£22.40

For EV owners looking to maximize savings and convenience, combining the Utilities Warehouse EV tariff with a Lemac Power 7kW Charger is a smart move. With UW’s low 7p/kWh off-peak rate, you’ll see dramatic reductions in your charging costs. Add in the smart features of the Lemac Power charger, and you’ve got a solution that delivers cost-effective, hassle-free charging every night.

Not only will you reduce your EV running costs, but by bundling other services with UW, you can simplify your bills and enjoy savings across multiple utilities. It’s a win-win for both your wallet and your EV!

Grants for your EV charging

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:00:07 +0000

Charge Your EV at Home with Lemac Power's 7kW Charger – Get Funding with EST and OZEV

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the convenience of home charging is becoming essential for EV owners. At Lemac Power, we are proud to offer a reliable and efficient 7kW EV charger designed for home installation, giving you the power to charge your vehicle from the comfort of your driveway. But did you know that, on top of the convenience, you can also get financial help to install your charger? Scottish homeowners can benefit from both the Energy Saving Trust (EST) Domestic Charge Point Funding and the OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) Chargepoint Grant for renters and flat owners, making the installation of an EV charger more affordable than ever.

Why Choose Lemac Power’s 7kW EV Charger?

Fast and Efficient: The 7kW power output ensures your car charges faster than a standard 3-pin plug, adding up to 30 miles of range per hour.

Smart Features: Schedule charging to make the most of off-peak electricity tariffs and reduce your overall energy costs.

Compatible with All EVs: Our charger works with any make and model of electric vehicle, giving you the flexibility to switch cars without needing a new charger.

Sleek Design: The compact, modern design will complement any home’s exterior.

How the Energy Saving Trust Can Help

For those living in Scotland, the Energy Saving Trust (EST) offers a fantastic opportunity to make home charging even more affordable. This funding provides up to £400 to cover part of the cost of purchasing and installing a home charger.

What About the OZEV Grant?

If you're a renter or flat owner in the UK, the OZEV Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant is available to help with the cost of installing a home EV charger. This grant offers up to 75% of the total cost of the purchase and installation, with a maximum of £350 available per installation. It's a great way to make the move to greener, more cost-effective driving without the heavy upfront costs.

The OZEV grant is designed specifically for:

- Renters living in flats or single-use properties and Leaseholders or freeholders of a flat

How to Claim Both EST and OZEV Funding

By combining EST funding with the OZEV grant, you can significantly reduce the cost of installing a home EV charger. Here’s how you can benefit from both:

1. Check Your Eligibility: For EST funding, you must be a Scottish resident and own an EV or have one on order. For the OZEV grant, you need to be renting, living in a flat, or owning a flat, with dedicated parking at your property.

2. Apply: For EST funding, visit their website here to start your application. For the OZEV grant, speak with your installer (like us at Lemac Power), who can claim the grant on your behalf.

3. Get Lemac Power’s Charger: Once you’ve applied, our team will help you through the next steps, including installation, to ensure you maximize your savings.

4. Start Home Charging: With up to £750 in combined funding from EST and OZEV, you can have your Lemac Power 7kW charger installed at a much lower cost.

Why Act Now?

As EV adoption grows, home charging stations are becoming essential. With financial support from both EST and OZEV, it’s never been more affordable to install your own EV charger. At Lemac Power, we’re here to make the transition to electric driving smooth and cost-effective. Contact us today to find out how we can help you get your EV charger installed with all the funding options available!

Demystifying EV Jargon

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 08:17:00 +0000

A simple guide to all the terms used in the world of electric vehicles.

If you're new to the world of electric vehicles (EVs), you're probably excited about the idea of driving a car that's eco-friendly, cost-effective, and packed with the latest technology. But as you dive deeper into the EV landscape, you might find yourself tripping over a few confusing terms—like kWh, range anxiety, or regenerative braking. Don’t worry; you’re not alone!

The good news is that understanding these terms is easier than you think. In this blog, we'll break down the most common EV jargon into simple, bite-sized explanations. By the end, you'll be speaking the language of EVs like a pro and feeling more confident about your journey into the future of driving.

Drivetrain: overall term that combines the engine and gearbox combination that moves the car.

EV or BEV: Electric Vehicle and Battery Electric Vehicle. Any vehicle where the only power to the motor comes from the onboard high voltage battery.

ICE: Internal Combustion Engine. Any vehicle that produces power by burning fuel to power the motor. This can be petrol, diesel, liquid petroleum gas, or is some cases hydrogen.

Hybrid: A general term that describes a vehicle that uses a combination of an electric and fuel burning drivetrain to reduce emissions.

MHEV: Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle - hybrid that uses the engine to charge a small battery and has a limited electric motor to help drive the vehicle. A good example of this is the Toyota Prius.

PHEV: Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle - a hybrid that has a larger battery and motor than a MHEV. Can be driven further distances on its electric drivetrain, and is designed to be charged like an electric vehicle to make the most of the electric motor.

kWh (Kilowatt-Hour): A unit of energy that measures the capacity of an EV battery or the amount of energy used. It's crucial for understanding how far an EV can travel on a single charge.

Gross kWh/Net kWh: the difference between the total capacity of the vehicle’s battery. For example, an EV might have a gross capacity of 80 kWh, but only 75 kWh might be usable (net capacity) to power the car, with the remaining 5 kWh reserved for battery management. This difference is used to help protect the battery and increase its life.

Range: The distance an EV can travel on a fully charged battery. It's often the first thing potential EV buyers look at. See also WLTP

Regenerative Braking: A system that recovers energy typically lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery, extending the vehicle's range. This can be adjusted in most cars to suit the type of driving.

Charging Station: A location where EVs can be recharged. They vary in type, from home chargers to fast chargers found at service stations or other public places.

Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging: Different levels of charging speeds. Level 1 is the slowest (using a standard household outlet), Level 2 is faster (like those found at public charging stations or installed at home), and DC Fast Charging is the fastest, typically used for long-distance travel.

State of Charge (SoC): The current level of charge in an EV’s battery, usually expressed as a percentage. Similar to the fuel gauge in a traditional car.

V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid): A technology that allows EVs to return electricity to the grid, helping to balance supply and demand or provide backup power.

Charging Network: A system of charging stations provided by companies like Tesla (Supercharger network), ChargePoint, Osprey, offering EV drivers access to public chargers.

ZapMap: A UK-wide map of electric car charging points that helps electric car drivers locate and navigate to their nearest EV charging point.

Kilowatts (kW): A measure of power output or consumption. In EVs, it can describe the power of the motor or the rate of energy transfer during charging. Similar to the use of BHP (brake horsepower) in traditional engines. 1 kW is equivalent to 1.34 BHP

EVSE: Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment. The hardware that delivers electrical energy to charge an EV. It includes everything from home chargers to public charging stations.

DNO: Distribution Network Operator – see our article for more information.

WLTP: Test protocols used to estimate the range and efficiency of EVs. This isn’t always the actual range achievable and actual range will vary by conditions and the drive. While not accurate in real world conditions, this helps compare cars on a level playing field.

Miles per kilowatt-hour (miles/kWh): A measure of an electric vehicle's (EV's) efficiency, indicating how many miles the vehicle can travel on one kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity. It is similar to miles per gallon (MPG) for gasoline vehicles but applies to electric power.

CT clamp: Current Transformer clamp - a device used to measure electrical current flowing through a conductor without directly connecting to the circuit. It’s used with a home charger for load management and balancing to make sure the charger isn’t overloading the mains supply.

Energy Saving Trust helps drivers fund used electric vehicles

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 14:04:39 +0000

Unlocking the benefits of the EST's Electric Vehicle Loan

As the world continues to shift towards sustainable energy solutions, electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront of this transition. In Scotland, the government is actively encouraging the adoption of EVs through various initiatives, one of these being the Energy Saving Trust’s Electric Vehicle Loan. This program offers an interest-free loan to individuals looking to purchase a used electric vehicle, making the switch to green transportation simpler than ever. But to get the most of the benefits of your EV, it's also worth considering the installation of a Lemac Power home EV charger. Here's why.

What is the Energy Saving Trust's Electric Vehicle Loan?

The Energy Saving Trust’s Low Carbon Transport Loan for Used Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Scotland is a government-funded initiative aimed at making electric vehicle ownership easier for rural residents and eligible households. The program offers interest-free loans of up to £25,000 for purchasing used pure electric cars or vans from UK dealerships. To qualify, applicants must not already own a pure EV, must have a valid driving license, and meet specific criteria based on their residency and household income.

Rural residents are eligible if they live in areas classified as rural by the Scottish Government and there is an online postcode to help see if this applies. It’s also available for households with a combined income not exceeding £50,000. With no interest charged, the full amount you borrow goes directly towards your purchase, allowing for significant savings compared to conventional loans. The loan is repayable over up to six years depending on the age of the vehicle, providing ample time to manage your finances comfortably. Unlike many financing options that require an upfront deposit, this loan does not, making it more accessible.

While the loan covers the cost of purchasing your electric vehicle, another key consideration is how you'll charge it. This is where the Lemac Power home EV charger comes into play. With a home EV charger, you can charge your vehicle overnight, ensuring it's always ready when you need it. The Lemac Power charger offers smart features like scheduling, which allows you to set specific charging times to take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours. Compared to standard plug-in options, the Lemac Power home charger delivers a significantly faster charge. Most home chargers can provide a full charge in 6-8 hours, compared to 24+ hours with a standard 3-pin plug.

The Energy Saving Trust’s Electric Vehicle Loan provides a fantastic opportunity for Scots to join the electric vehicle revolution without the financial burden often associated with new technology. However, to truly get the most out of your new EV, installing a Lemac Power home charger is a wise decision. Not only does it offer convenience and faster charging times, but it also ensures you're getting the most efficient and reliable charge possible, making your overall EV experience better. In the drive towards a greener future, combining the benefits of the Energy Saving Trust's loan with a Lemac Power home charger is a powerful step towards sustainable, hassle-free transportation.

To find out more about the EST used EV scheme – you can find out more at the link below.

https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/grants-and-loans/used-electric-vehicle-loan/

MyBMW app adds EV advice

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:16:42 +0000

MyBMW app now offers drivers help in making switch to EV

BMW is approaching the point of replacing Tesla as the leader of the UK’s electric car market, marking a significant shift in the industry. With electric BMW sales soaring by 70% this year and nearing 22,000 units, the brand is closing in on Tesla’s 25,500 sales. This surge comes as Tesla struggles both globally in the UK, where increased competition and shifting consumer perceptions are eroding its dominance. BMW’s aggressive push, led by models like the i4, is paying off, particularly in the corporate fleet and sector where it excels.

To help this switch, BMW have expanded the features in the MyBMW app with the new Electric Vehicle Analysis. Available to drivers for most of their ICE model range released since 2019 that use the BMW Operating system 7, this tool is designed to highlight the benefit for drivers in swapping to an EV. By using the onboard telemetry data the app collects, once a driver has covered just over 1200 miles and 200 journeys, they can then compare their journeys to an EV in the BMW range using real world data of their driving habits. BMW hopes that by letting drivers see how an EV would fit personalized driving, like journeys that could have been completed in a single charge and the potential for making the most of fuel savings, that they can help aid people in choosing to drive a zero emissions car.

This is an important step in helping the next wave of EV adoption by helping show drivers that range anxiety is becoming far less of an issue with the improvements in technology. By using personalised journey data, the driver can see exactly how many of their typical trips could be completed on a single charge, easing fears about running out of power, and what charging solutions would suit them. General statistics about EV range and performance might not reflect a driver's unique patterns, such as the distances they travel, the types of routes they take, or how frequently they drive.

As BMW’s new service expands, one of the next planned features is to analyse time parked and longer journeys, combining it with charging times and charging options. Drivers still have misconceptions about EVs' suitability for their needs. Seeing concrete data that demonstrates an EV's practicality based on their own driving habits can help overcome these, and help break down barriers, giving drivers confidence that they're making a well-informed choice, reducing the uncertainty and potential regret associated with switching to a new type of vehicle.

For BMW drivers whose personalised data confirms that switching to an EV is a practical choice, investing in a Lemac Power EV charger at home or work is a smart next step. It ensures that charging is convenient, and always within reach, allowing them to fully embrace the benefits of electric driving. With a compact charger like Lemac Power, drivers can maximize the convenience of their EV, reduce downtime, and take advantage of lower energy costs by charging during off-peak hours. The sleek, stylish design makes a perfect partner for the premium feel of BMW’s range of vehicles. This investment not only enhances the overall EV experience but also solidifies their commitment to a more sustainable and efficient driving future.