As an EV owner, would I need a home charger or not?

With two young kids and a 40-km daily commute through heavy Toronto traffic, Illianna Katsikeris liked driving her powerful BMW X5 SUV, but hated the cost of constantly filling it up.
'We were spending way too much money on gas,' said the TDSB teacher. 'I wanted the same car without the same (premium fuel) cost.'
So she and her husband decided to trade in her thirsty gas-only X5 for a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the 2025 X5 in March, leasing their X5 xDrive50e as a way to dip their toe into the electric world.
After that came the key question that most plug-in vehicle owners will face: Do I need a home EV charger or not?
The general consensus seems 'yes, ideally.' Automakers, EV advocates and utilities have all noted that in North America, a healthy majority of current EV owners, who have access to a garage or driveway, have already invested in a charging station. This is especially true for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), with larger batteries, although it's less clear for PHEVs.
But it's also the pricier way to charge your electric vehicle. Depending on your house's layout and electrical panel capacity, installing a home charger may cost thousands of extra dollars, on top of the $500 to about $1,400 for the actual unit that mounts on the wall and connects with your EV.
Knowing the differences between L1 and L2 charging options can help save money. It's worth noting here the practical differences between trickle charging (also known as Level 1 charging) and Level 2 charging, which is what utility Toronto Hydro estimates is used by roughly three-quarters of its EV-driving customers.
Level 1 (L1) charging uses the cord that usually comes with your EV, and plugs into regular, three-prong, 120-volt outlets, running eight to 16 amps.
It's the simplest way to connect your EV.
It's also the slowest way to charge.
This does have a payoff: it adds roughly eight kilometres of electric range per hour of charging, according to Canadian EV advocacy and education group Plug'n Drive's website.
Katsikeris charges her BMW plug-in hybrid this way. She uses the charge cord it came with and plugs it in to an outlet in her driveway.
Rated at an official 63 km of all-electric range before its six-cylinder gas engine kicks in, her X5 is now estimating closer to 75 km in warmer weather, she says. That's very healthy range for a mid-size, luxury, all-wheel drive PHEV. But its relatively large 22-kilowatt-hour (kWh) pack also means longer recharge times on L1 charging and that can become annoying.
'It takes 24 hours to fully recharge, which is a pain in the butt,' lamented Katsikeris, who is using L1 charging at home, via a regular 110-volt plug, outdoors.
To tackle that pain, many EV drivers opt for Level 2 charging.
A Level 2 charger uses a 240-volt connection, similar to a stove or dryer outlet. In most jurisdictions, these require an electrician to install, and they involve a permit and safety inspection. Charging speeds vary much more with L2 chargers, which are known more accurately as EVSEs (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment), and come in much wider-ranging amperage levels, from 16- on up to beefy 80-amp units.
Most commonly, L2s generally range from 30 amps to 40 amps, which provide roughly 35 kilometres of electric driving per hour, estimates Plug'n Drive. These times can vary widely in colder temperatures, and, on different vehicles. Some EVs charge on L2s at leisurely 3.3-kilowatt rates, while others can blaze along at up to 19.2 kW.
Choosing a lower amperage L2 charger can save thousands in the service upgrades you avoid.
Katsikeris' dealer told her that installing an L2 charging station for her X5 would cost about $2,500. BMW Canada lists its branded Wallbox charger as a $1,100-dealer-accessory on its site, and various automakers have offered to pay for the 'standard installation' of an EV charger in Canada with a price cap of roughly $1,500 in recent years.
Toronto Hydro's director of climate action, Julia McNally, actually faced the question of whether to invest in a home-charging station, herself, last year when she bought an all-electric Mini Cooper.
'When I was shopping for it, (what I heard) from the ecosystem was 'You need a Level 2,' but I don't really need one,' said McNally, who noted that she drives relatively few kilometres per year and often bikes to work. Her older, urban home also has 100-amp service, so installing a powerful 80-amp charger would mean she'd have to upgrade to a 200-amp electrical panel. According to a recent inspection and price quote on a similar panel from R.A.W Electrical, of Keswick, Ont., this would cost another $2,900, outside of utility fees and taxes.
'So L1 is really underappreciated,' said McNally, who advises EV buyers to try L1 to see if it works for them, and, if faster charging is required, to pay close attention to the L2 charger's amperage, so they don't buy more than their panel can handle.
'We're hearing stories about being upsold on the amperage,' she said.
For her part, Katsikeris would like to have quicker L2 home-charging, but says she'll wait for now. 'We're going to renovate the house anyway, so we figured we'd wait (to install a charger) until we do the entire house,' she said.
Until then, she'll keep hunting L2 chargers near work or while out in the city whenever possible, to augment her home trickle charging.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Newsweek

31 minutes ago

• Newsweek

NASCAR Insider Proposes Races in Canada and Europe after Mexico Success

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Following NASCAR's first international points-paying Cup Series race beyond the borders of the USA in Mexico last weekend, former NASCAR driver, commentator, and analyst Kyle Petty has proposed that the sport must consider racing in Canada and Europe. The race in Mexico's Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez saw a huge crowd turnout, prompting Petty to point out NASCAR fan bases in international locations. While Canada is one option, given the close proximity to America, he suggested a one-time race in Europe, especially after NASCAR pitched a custom Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to compete in the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans. Speaking to George Howson on Motorsport Reports, Petty said: "Obviously, if we're opening up Mexico, then I think we should take a look at Canada. I would like to see that. There are so many race fans. If you go to Michigan, Watkins Glen, you're right along the Canadian border. There's so many Canadian fans that come over. ... So I look at that and I say, Yeah, those are no-brainers to me. Shane Van Gisbergen, driver of the #88 Safety Culture Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Viva Mexico 250 at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on June 15, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico. Shane Van Gisbergen, driver of the #88 Safety Culture Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Viva Mexico 250 at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on June 15, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico."I would love to see us land somewhere in Europe, at least once. I've been going to Goodwood [in England], places like that. There are so many NASCAR fans, so many stock car fans, and it's just a totally different form of racing than Formula One or sports cars or Le Mans and that type of racing. "It's just a totally different form. It's not better, it's not worse, it's just different, that's just the way it is. I think it would be interesting to see the type of crowd that we could draw over there on an oval, or on a road course, because we have opened ourselves up with this car to be in a road course-type series. I know it's never gonna go to full road courses, but there will be a lot more of them that add on." Howson added: "We saw in Le Mans a few years ago [in 2023], these cars can run around actual world endurance championship circuits, so there's no reason why we can't say I'd love to see NASCAR in Europe. That'd be awesome." Speaking of road courses, while Petty acknowledged that more would be added to the NASCAR calendar in the future, his father, Richard Petty, famous for winning seven Cup Series championships, has dismissed road courses. While addressing how Shane van Gisbergen's victory in Mexico got him a spot in the playoffs, despite being 30th in the standings, Richard targeted the sport's 'if you win, you're in' policy and road courses. Newsweek Sports reported his comments: "The way they got this thing fixed, where if you win, you're in. That can't be right. You got somebody that's 30th in points that's going to make the playoffs. Hey man, what happened to the guy that 15th, or 16th, or 18th (that's) been running good (and) finished good everywhere? "You're making a championship situation by winning a road course, which is not really NASCAR to begin with. From that standpoint, I think they're going to have to jockey around and change some of this kind of stuff."

Time Business News

3 hours ago

• Time Business News

Exploring the Rise of Local Courier Marketplaces and Courier Service Platforms in Canada

In a world where speed, convenience, and real-time updates define consumer expectations, the logistics and delivery industry is undergoing a massive transformation. From online shoppers awaiting same-day delivery to small businesses needing rapid parcel dispatch, the demand for efficient courier solutions has never been higher. In response, a powerful new trend is emerging in the local courier Canada, this model is quickly gaining traction, offering both individuals and businesses a flexible, transparent, and efficient way to manage deliveries. At the heart of this transformation is the growth of the Courier service platform in Canada, a digital solution that connects senders with local couriers in real this article, we'll dive deep into what makes local courier marketplaces so powerful, why Canada is a prime location for this disruption, and how these platforms are reshaping the courier industry across the country. A Local courier marketplace is an on-demand digital platform that connects senders — whether they're individuals or businesses — with available couriers in their area. Think of it like Uber, but for deliveries. Instead of calling a traditional courier company and dealing with long wait times, users can simply log in to a platform, post their delivery request, and select a nearby courier based on price, ETA, vehicle type, and user model thrives on flexibility. Couriers are typically independent contractors who choose when and where they want to work. Users benefit from transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and rapid delivery times. Canada is uniquely positioned to embrace the digital courier revolution. With a growing e-commerce market, a dispersed population, and urban centers that demand fast, reliable service, the rise of the courier service platform in Canada is a natural evolution. Here are a few reasons why this model is growing rapidly in Canada: Canadian consumers are shopping online more than ever. From small Etsy sellers to large online retailers, the demand for reliable and flexible delivery solutions is increasing. A local courier marketplace provides e-commerce sellers with an affordable, scalable way to fulfill orders locally without relying on national carriers with slow delivery windows. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal face high traffic congestion and logistical challenges. Local couriers who know the area well can navigate these challenges more efficiently than national couriers. The courier service platform in Canada offers real-time route optimization and allows for quick deliveries that traditional models can't match. Small businesses often can't afford to partner with large courier companies or pay premium shipping rates. Platforms that operate as local courier marketplaces give them access to cost-effective, on-demand delivery options, helping them stay competitive and retain local customers. Canada has high smartphone penetration and tech-savvy consumers. This makes it easier to adopt mobile-first delivery solutions. Couriers and senders alike can manage pickups, track packages, and handle payments seamlessly from their phones. To understand the impact of this model, let's break down how a local courier marketplace functions: Input Details : Enter pickup and delivery addresses, item size, preferred vehicle type, and any special instructions. : Enter pickup and delivery addresses, item size, preferred vehicle type, and any special instructions. Get Offers : The platform displays available couriers, estimated time of arrival, and pricing. : The platform displays available couriers, estimated time of arrival, and pricing. Track Live : Once a courier is selected, senders can track the delivery in real time and communicate directly with the courier. : Once a courier is selected, senders can track the delivery in real time and communicate directly with the courier. Pay and Rate: Payment is processed automatically via the platform, and users can leave reviews. Register on the Platform : Couriers sign up with details about their vehicle and service area. : Couriers sign up with details about their vehicle and service area. Accept Jobs : Choose deliveries that fit their schedule and location. : Choose deliveries that fit their schedule and location. Navigate with Tools : Use route optimization, live chat, and integrated GPS for efficient service. : Use route optimization, live chat, and integrated GPS for efficient service. Get Paid: Payment is direct and immediate upon completion. There are several advantages for both senders and couriers using this model: Users can choose the exact delivery window, compare prices, and select couriers based on past performance. Couriers can pick jobs based on their availability and location, making the system dynamic and efficient. Traditional courier services often come with hidden fees or vague pricing structures. Local marketplaces offer upfront pricing, allowing users to make informed choices. Live GPS tracking and integrated chat features build trust between sender and courier, and offer full visibility throughout the delivery journey. With route optimization and localized delivery, these platforms reduce unnecessary travel, making them more environmentally friendly compared to traditional delivery systems. The popularity of this delivery model has led to the rise of several platforms operating within Canada. One such platform is Sendiate, a courier marketplace that recently expanded its operations into Canadian cities like Winnipeg. The platform offers a seamless experience for both senders and couriers, with features like pricing comparison, direct chat, and diverse vehicle options — from bicycles to refrigerated trucks. By enabling real-time matching between senders and couriers, platforms like Sendiate are setting a new standard for the courier service platform in Canada. As demand for fast, local delivery continues to rise, we can expect local courier marketplaces to become an essential part of Canada's logistics landscape. Here are a few trends to watch: Many courier service platforms are working to expand their coverage to remote and rural areas. This will open up access to better delivery options for Canadians living outside of major cities. Expect tighter integration with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce. Sellers will be able to offer real-time delivery options to local customers, boosting satisfaction and reducing cart abandonment. Electric vehicles, bicycles, and carbon-offsetting options will become key selling points for courier platforms, appealing to environmentally conscious users. Machine learning will play a role in predicting demand, optimizing routes, and ensuring timely delivery. Automation tools for dispatch, communication, and customer support will further improve platform efficiency. The delivery industry is shifting from large, rigid networks to agile, localized solutions. The local courier marketplace model reflects the needs of today's economy — speed, transparency, flexibility, and you're a small business needing same-day shipping or a courier looking for a flexible way to earn, platforms that offer a modern courier service platform in Canada are bridging the gap between technology and logistics. With real-time matching, transparent pricing, and urban-focused solutions, these platforms represent the future of delivery in more users embrace this model, expect to see rapid innovation, wider adoption, and a fundamentally transformed last-mile delivery experience across the country. TIME BUSINESS NEWS

Hamilton Spectator

a day ago

• Hamilton Spectator

Don't regulate us like radio, music streamer Spotify tells CRTC

OTTAWA - Music streamer Spotify says Canada's federal broadcast regulator shouldn't impose rules meant for radio on streaming services. Appearing before a CRTC hearing Friday, company representatives compared regulating Spotify like a radio station to treating Uber like a horse and buggy operation. 'To apply yesterday's tools to today's platforms risks dulling Canada's success on the global music stage,' said Xenia Manning, Spotify's director of global music policy. 'It is essential to assess whether a real problem exists that justifies regulatory intervention. In our view, the evidence is clear. There is no market failure in audio streaming that would warrant intervention by the CRTC.' In its written submission, Spotify argued the CRTC doesn't have the jurisdiction to extend rules governing commercial negotiations and disputes in the broadcast sector to online players. Spotify said the Broadcasting Act doesn't give the CRTC the authority to 'regulate the terms of trade between online undertakings, including good faith negotiations and commercial disputes.' It said the CRTC's proposals 'would see it imposing dispute resolution and commercial negotiation requirements on online undertakings that are plainly outside the scope of broadcasting.' The CRTC is holding a hearing on market dynamics as part of its work to implement the Online Streaming Act, which updated broadcasting laws to capture online platforms. During the hearing, large telecom and broadcasting companies like Bell and Rogers called on the CRTC to loosen existing rules for traditional players. They took aim at regulations governing how cable channels must be packaged and disputes about carriage of cable channels. Bell, which appeared Wednesday, asked the CRTC to get rid of the rule the regulator implemented nearly a decade ago requiring companies to offer a $25 basic cable package. In its opening statement Friday, Rogers asked the CRTC to dramatically reduce regulation of cable companies. Colette Watson, president of Rogers' media division, said less than half of Canadian households now subscribe to cable, satellite or IPTV service. 'Canadian ownership groups cannot survive another decade of disproportionate regulation,' she said. The CRTC is holding a series of hearings as part of its work under the Online Streaming Act. Spotify, along with Amazon and Apple, is fighting in court an earlier order requiring streamers to make CRTC-ordered financial contributions to Canadian content and news. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 20, 2025.