Baltimore To Test New High-Speed Charging Stations For Electric Vehicles
BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Pumping up versus plugging in. That's a choice Baltimore is exploring for its fleet of city cars.
WJZ's Alex DeMetrick reports, the test includes new high speed charging stations for electric vehicles.
Working for the Department of Public Works, Mike Gallagher makes a lot of drives between Baltimore's waste water treatment plants and city hall.
These days he's doing it in an electric car, one the city is testing to add to its fleet of vehicles.
"We're interested to see how well our employees adjust to these cars, use these cars and charge these cars," said the mayor.
Department of Public Works Division Chief Mike Gallagher says, "Right now, we'll get 65 more miles out of this charge. When it's fully charged the average mid-range they do is 82 miles."
Meaning frequent re-charging, with the standard public charging station.
"On a depleted battery it will take four to six hours to charge," Gallagher says.
But this high speed charger is a game changer. It's the first in Baltimore.
"This one will charge a car from 0 to 80% in thirty minutes or less. It's something that is feasible. They can stop and get a quick coffee or something and charge and be on the road again," said Jason Mathias, Department of Public Works Energy Program Manager.
This was the most common type of charger, and at city hall it's free, but eventually there will be charge for the new high speed charge.
Officials say it will costs $9.00 to charge a 30 minute period.
As for the cars being tested by DPW?
"With my experience now, it's certainly something we'd like to have at least one or two in our fleet of vehicles," said Gallagher.
Baltimore plans to install four of the high speed chargers.
Statewide, 20 are already in service , with 10 more by the end of the year.
