Purchases of hybrid or electronic cars already receive financial benefit such as tax credits, across various states in the United States.  Residential settings that have properties with electronic car charging stations installed also get a tax break. There are other perks too, like free parking for electronic cars in the city of Sacramento as well as the free charging that comes with it. In some cities “car pool” lanes now share privileges with other hybrid or electric cars.

Starting 15 July 2016, a portion of California homes will be subjected to the new legislation that requires newly built homes to be wired for EV charger.

For commercial constructions, newly built projects with four or more off street parking spaces are now legislated to have one charging station for every four off street parkings.

Cities such as New York, Boston and Atlanta also plan to roll out legislation requiring electric car charging infrastructures soon.

Notwithstanding the recent change in regulations, the demand for electronic car charging stations was already on the rise. Just as having a Nest is a selling point for higher priced residential properties, an electronic car charger on the property is deemed a nice-to-have luxury item. This was particularly the case for houses averaging $713,500 (R10 900 745,98) amidst US national median of $194 560 (R2 972 458,50).

The social demand and legislative demand continues to funnel the path to electronic car ownership.

By: Carol Lin

Image credit: Avda