Driving electric is more important than ever

Even if you’re spending more time at home and less time on the road, you can still continue to enjoy the numerous benefits that come with owning an electric vehicle (EV). 

Check out and follow our best practices to make sure you're getting the most out of your EV.

EV best practices

EV Time-of-Use (TOU) Pricing Plans Help You Save

  • EV drivers benefit from special Time-of-Use pricing plans that have lower pricing periods throughout the week. Learn more. 
  • You can set up the charge timer in your car or WiFi-enabled EV charger to benefit from cheaper off-peak pricing. Consult your owner’s manual for guidance. 
  • Managing your home energy use is easy on an EV plan; just program your car to charge during Super Off-Peak hours and use your clothes washer/dryer, dishwasher, pool pump, etc. during the same lower-cost hours.

Use EV Chargers Safely

  • Just like gas pump handles, take reasonable precautions when using public EV chargers. Remember to wear disposable gloves or use paper towels when touching a public charger. And, if you don’t have either, make sure to keep hand sanitizer in your vehicle.
  • Chargers are safe to use, even during rainy weather. They are weatherproof and are designed to protect both your car and you from electrical shock.
  • Beware of “vampire drain” for your EV – which may lose energy if it is not plugged in and/or used for long periods of time. Make sure to check your car’s manual for more information.

Integrating Chargers Throughout San Diego

  • There are thousands of chargers available across the county, including more than 3,000 that SDG&E installed at workplaces and apartment/condo complexes. So, you’ll never have to worry about your next charge.
  • SDG&E has recently unveiled 88 fast and level 2 chargers that will be conveniently located in Park & Ride lots across the county.
  • With charging at home being the most convenient and preferred way to charge, don’t forget to charge during Super Off-Peak hours when costs are the lowest. Sign up today for a special EV Time-of-Use rate if you’re not already on one.

Tackling Air Pollution Together

  • Approximately 41% of California’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation. In San Diego, that percentage is even higher — about 50%.
  • The current shelter in place directive has given us significant drops in air pollution with less vehicles on the road.
  • Thank YOU for already being environmental stewards and committing to cleaner air year-round. As life turns back to normal, let’s keep up the green momentum and continue to drive electric. Encourage your friends and family to join the movement too!