I had too much coffee in the morning, so on yesterday's trip to Bellingham, I was ready to use the very first Washington State DOT Rest Stop on I-5 South. I had seen these two devices during the last trip as well. Yesterday, I snapped a picture of the two, electric charging stations. Of course, I needed to find out more about them.
Electric vehicles have long been an interest. In fact when I bought my present ride, oh so many years ago, I sort of thought that my next purchase just might plug in. Little did I know how slowly the technology would develop. I still think this has a lot to do with the premium which must be paid to enter the club. It must make economic sense as much as an emotional one for a society to make such a major transition.
Click this static image to visit the plugshare.com site.
Of course, things are a-changing, and eventually, I hope, a-charging! I had to look up to see about level 3 quick charges. At 20-30 minutes for a charge, people may be willing to modify their travel behaviours. If I could charge up while having lunch for example, I might be able to live with an all electric vehicle. Of course the infrastructure must be robust.
Out here on the upper part of the left coast, pursuing these options make sense. The weather is relatively mild and a vast amount of hydro-electricity is produced. Cars on a "smart grid" actually add to the potential energy of the region. If my car knew that I did not require a full charge until my morning commute, it'd be able to share its store of juice while my neighbour was cooking dinner. Welcome to the inevitable future.
Find out more by visiting www.westcoastgreenhighway.com.