Free Car Charger Now Open In Springfield

 There’s no charge for a charge at Springfield Ford Lincoln.
  The dealership, 50 Baltimore Pike, recently installed a Level II electric vehicle (EV) charger accessible 24 hours a day. The unit, with a universal nozzle, is available on a complimentary basis to owners of any make or model.
  “We are the first Ford dealership in the state to have one,” said President Jim Thomas. “It is for public use for anyone with an electric vehicle.”
  EVs are an environmentally friendly way to get around town. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs), they are propelled by an electric motor powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The motors convert 75 percent of the chemical energy from the batteries to power the wheels, compared to the 20 percent of the energy stored in the gasoline converted by ICEs, helping to reduce energy dependence.
  Gas-free vehicles, such as the Ford Focus Electric and Nissan Leaf, and plug-in hybrids like the Chevy Volt, were initially available in a limited number of states, including California, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and the Washington DC area, but will be displayed in local showrooms later this year.
  Production has begun on the Ford C-Max Energi, combining an eight-gallon gas tank with a battery, and the 2013 models are expected this fall. EV purchases may be eligible for a federal income tax credit up to $7,500.
  The compact cars, which typically get 100 miles to the charge, can be fully re-charged in approximately 3.5 hours. Rather than merely plug into their 120-volt home outlet, owners often opt for a 240-volt charging station, a $2,500 purchase which may also qualify for tax credits.
  The charger is similar to those behind the Media firehouse, on King of Prussia Road in Radnor and at the King of Prussia Mall. Use of the units at Springfield Ford Lincoln and the mall are free; owners can charge at the other stations for an hourly fee.
  “Drivers can put in a quarter charge or a full one,” said General Sales Manager Steve Amabile. “We have great coffee and WiFi or they can plan to come at lunchtime and take advantage of our local shuttle.”
  The charging stations, which have only become operational within the last few months, are among 30,000 to 50,000 nationwide. Most are in public spots, such as parking garages, apartment complexes, malls and movie theaters.
  “As charging stations become more accessible, the cars will appeal to a greater number of people,” said John O’Dell, green car advisor and a senior editor at edmunds.com.  “Drivers will take advantage of plugging in as often as they can.”
  Those interested in preserving the environment as they travel are the drivers Thomas is hoping to greet at the charging station.
  “This is an important step to help save gas and reduce greenhouse gases,” he said. “It is a way we can serve the community and meet like-minded people who are trying to reduce energy.”