Wire New Building With 220 Volt for Electric Cars?

[Mike L.]

I'm looking into building a new multifamily building with separate garages (and electric meters) per unit and the idea dawned on me that while doing it, running 220v to each garage stall might be smart in the event a tenant wanted to charge an electric car as it seems like it would mostly just cost the circuit breaker, wire, outlet and a little bit of extra time. Can anyone think of any reasons NOT to do this? Only thing I could think of was someone using it for something I didn't want like running an oven, dryer or welder down there that could create a fire hazard. 

[Matt Devincenzo]

The two reasons are 1) initial cost which creates no return unless you get an EV tenant 2) the still somewhat evolving EV and EV tech landscape.

What clients building new MF are doing in some cases is to install a conduit and/or box to the garage today. If a tenant leases the unit and needs that amenity then they can pull wire and install the breakers etc at that time. It also allows for them to install what may be a better or more efficient system later again when a tenant is ready to use it. 

[Mason Hickman]

@Mike L.

I think it's a great idea. Do it during the build stage while it will be easier. Plus it would be one more reason for tenants to rent longer if they have an electric car. 70% of all cars are projected to be electric by 2050 so it is probably a good bet on the future.   

[Bjorn Ahlblad]

@220 volt is pretty common already. Dryers, stoves, hot water heaters, wall heaters etc use 220 volt. Providing for ecars will make tenants stay longer especially if they pay for the unit install.

[Francis Louis Vogel Jr]

Check to see if the EV manufacturer has charging stations for home use and what the requirements are concerning installation. And state and local fuel tax laws. Here is Michigan there is a fuel tax for EV's.

Great question.

[Matt Devincenzo]

The two reasons are 1) initial cost which creates no return unless you get an EV tenant 2) the still somewhat evolving EV and EV tech landscape.

What clients building new MF are doing in some cases is to install a conduit and/or box to the garage today. If a tenant leases the unit and needs that amenity then they can pull wire and install the breakers etc at that time. It also allows for them to install what may be a better or more efficient system later again when a tenant is ready to use it.