Can You Own an EV if You Live in an Apartment?

Yes, you can own an EV if you live in an apartment, but it may require planning and planning and considerations.

One of the major perks of owning an EV is the ability to refuel passively, assuming you have access to a charger at work or home. And while some apartment complexes are beginning to install chargers for residents, the majority of apartment dwellers will not have access to charging at home. 

If your apartment complex has charging infrastructure in place, you’re in luck! If charging infrastructure is missing, however, careful planning may be required. In some cases, you may be able to access a standard 120V outlet for slow, L1 charging. The more likely case is dependence on public charging, with a mix of standard L2 charging, DC fast charging, and possible destination chargers (i.e. stations which you can use while going about your regular activities). 

Depending on where you live, these options may or may not be feasible. The ability to own an EV without access to home charging is not impossible, but can be challenging and costly. As EV adoption continues to grow, it may be possible to petition for charging infrastructure, joining forces with other apartment residents who own or are interested in owning EVs to request the installation of charging stations. Additionally, many programs exist today that offer local incentives, which may help persuade property managers to consider adding charging infrastructure. 

Dive Deeper:

• Can You Own an EV if You Live in an Apartment?
• Step by Step: Get Ready for Your First Electric Car
• Electric Car Owners Guide to Charging an EV

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