The Reality of Free Electric Vehicle Charging vs. Gasoline in the USA

While the United States offers various incentives for electric vehicle (EV) adoption, the question arises: Are there many public places where you can get an electric vehicle charged for free? Let's explore the current landscape and the reasons behind it.

Free Electric Vehicle Charging: A Common Sight

One significant shift in the automotive landscape is the expansion of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. Many public places, from shopping malls to hotels, offer free charging to EV owners. These free charging stations are particularly prevalent in areas serviced by Tesla. Tesla provides free charging for its higher-tier models, though it comes with a catch: using these stations may attract ads or influence users to engage with the brand.

In addition to Tesla's network, there are other public spaces that offer free charging. For instance, in the small town where I reside, a local coffee shop provides one free charging station for its visitors. Similarly, an outdoor gear store in a larger nearby city also offers free charging to its customers while they are shopping.

Why Not Free Gasoline?

The situation is quite different when it comes to gasoline. Despite the occasional promotions that include free gas station gift cards, it is rare to find anywhere in the USA that offers free gasoline refueling. This is due to several factors.

First, gasoline is a flammable and smelly substance that would be very difficult and potentially hazardous to distribute freely. Unlike electricity, it is not something that can be easily stored in large quantities or distributed at a community level without significant infrastructure challenges.

Second, selling gasoline involves strict regulatory requirements, including permits and compliance with environmental regulations. Without the proper licenses and permissions, it would be illegal to simply hand out fuel to the public.

Lastly, the cost of gasoline cannot be recouped through the same amenities as electricity. While electricity costs may be relatively low and can be passed on to merchants in the form of consumer charges, the same cannot be said for gasoline. The cost of fuel is directly tied to market prices, which fluctuate frequently, making it difficult to provide free refueling without significant financial repercussions.

Electricity as an Amenenity

Electric vehicle charging stations are often perceived as a convenience or amenity, much like free peanuts at a bar or free internet in a coffee shop. These stations are frequently placed in locations where people are likely to be, such as shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants. The cost of EV charging is often negligible compared to the revenue generated by the surrounding businesses.

For example, a typical level 2 charger can charge an EV at a rate that is very low, costing about $1 per hour at average US electric rates. This minimal cost is often seen as a way for businesses to attract EV owners, enhancing customer loyalty and spending. In effect, the cost is distributed across the entire business rather than being a direct cost to the customer.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is common to find public places in the USA where you can get an electric vehicle charged for free, finding similar places for free gasoline is rare. The nature of gasoline and the stringent regulations surrounding its distribution play a significant role in this disparity. However, the trend towards embracing electric vehicles suggests that more free charging stations will continue to be developed, providing EV owners with convenient and cost-effective charging options.