What is the range on an Equinox EV?

Chevy’s new Equinox EV has been one of the most anticipated electric vehicles in its class. Designed for affordability, style, and efficiency, the Equinox EV offers a range that can meet the daily needs of many drivers. But just how far can it go on a single charge? In this article, we’ll explore the range of the Equinox EV and answer common questions about charging, cost, and compatibility with other charging networks like Tesla’s.

What Is the Range on an Equinox EV?

The range of an EV (or electric vehicle) refers to how far it can travel on a fully charged battery. For the Chevy Equinox EV, range can vary depending on the model, the type of battery, and other factors, such as driving conditions and temperature.

• Front-Wheel Drive: The base model of the Equinox EV offers a range of about 315 miles on a full charge. This is generally sufficient for daily commuting and errands.
• All-Wheel Drive: AWD models offer less range, reaching up to 285 miles per charge. 

With these range options, the Equinox EV is well-suited for everyday use and even some longer trips. Chevy has designed the battery to be efficient and durable, so drivers can rely on consistent range performance.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Equinox EV?

Charging an EV like the Equinox EV is generally much more affordable than filling up a gas tank, but the exact cost can depend on where and how you charge it.

Charging at Home

Charging at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective option for EV owners. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:

• Cost Per kWh: The average electricity rate in the U.S. is about $0.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), though this can vary by region.
• Battery Capacity: The Equinox EV’s battery capacity is around 65 kWh to 80 kWh, depending on the model.
• Full Charge Cost: To fully charge the Equinox EV at home, it would cost between $8.45 and $10.40 based on the average electricity rate.

This is a lot cheaper than paying for gasoline, especially with gas prices fluctuating. Charging at home also means you can plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery each day.

Public Charging Stations

Public charging stations offer different charging speeds and prices. Fast-charging stations are typically more expensive than regular chargers but can recharge the Equinox EV much faster.

• Regular Charging Stations: These usually cost around $0.10 to $0.30 per minute or a similar price per kWh. This is ideal if you have some time to wait.
• Fast Chargers: Some fast chargers can bring the battery up to 80% in about 30 minutes but may cost $0.35 to $0.45 per kWh or $0.25 to $0.50 per minute.

Using public chargers is convenient for long trips or if you don’t have a home charging station. Apps like the MyChevy app can help you locate nearby public charging stations and even estimate charging costs.

Does the Equinox EV Come with a Charger?

Yes, the Chevy Equinox EV does come with a basic charger, so you can start charging right away after you bring it home. Here’s what you need to know about the included charger and other charging options:

Level 1 Charger

The Equinox EV comes standard with a Level 1 charger. This charger can be plugged into any standard 120-volt household outlet, so it doesn’t require any special setup. However, it’s a slow charger.

• Charging Speed: Level 1 chargers can take a long time to fully charge the Equinox EV—up to 30-40 hours for a full battery.
• Best for Daily Top-Ups: While not the fastest option, a Level 1 charger is useful for daily top-ups if you don’t drive much each day.

Level 2 Charger

For faster charging, you can upgrade to a Level 2 charger, which requires a 240-volt outlet. Many EV owners choose to install a Level 2 charger at home for convenience.

• Charging Speed: A Level 2 charger can fully charge the Equinox EV in 6-8 hours.
• Installation Cost: Installing a Level 2 charger at home can cost between $500 and $2,000, depending on the type of charger and the setup.

A Level 2 charger is a good option if you drive longer distances daily or if you simply want the convenience of a faster charging time at home.

Can the Equinox EV Use a Tesla Charger?

One question many new EV owners have is whether they can charge their Chevy Equinox EV at a Tesla charging station. Tesla’s Supercharger network is well-established and offers fast charging across the U.S., but Tesla stations weren’t originally designed to work with non-Tesla vehicles. However, there are now options to make this possible.

Magic Dock Locations

Tesla has recently started adding Magic Dock adapters at some of its Supercharger locations. These Magic Docks are compatible with non-Tesla EVs, allowing vehicles like the Equinox EV to connect to Tesla Superchargers at select locations.

• Availability: Not all Tesla stations have Magic Dock yet, so it’s best to check the Tesla app or website for locations that support non-Tesla vehicles.
• Convenience: Magic Docks make it easy to access Tesla’s fast-charging network without needing to carry an extra adapter.

Using an Adapter

If you want more flexibility, you can use a third-party adapter to connect your Equinox EV to a Tesla charger.

• Tesla Supercharger Adapter: This adapter allows you to connect to Tesla Superchargers and is specifically designed for non-Tesla EVs. The Tesla adapter is generally easy to use and enables you to take advantage of Tesla’s fast-charging speeds.
• Third-Party Adapters: Other adapters, like the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex, are also available and offer compatibility with Tesla chargers. These adapters can vary in price but are useful if you often rely on Tesla’s charging network.

Limitations of Using Tesla Chargers

While it’s possible to use Tesla chargers with the right adapter or at Magic Dock locations, there are a few limitations:

• Availability: Not all Tesla stations allow non-Tesla vehicles, so you may have limited access depending on where you live.
• Adapter Cost: Buying a quality adapter can be an additional expense. Some adapters cost between $150 and $300.

Summary: Is the Equinox EV a Good Choice?

The Chevy Equinox EV offers a solid range and good charging flexibility, making it a convenient choice for many drivers. Whether you’re charging at home or on the road, the Equinox EV provides options to keep your battery topped up without spending too much. Here’s a quick recap:

• Range: 315 miles (front-wheel drive) to 285 miles (AWD).
• Home Charging Cost: Around $8-10 for a full charge.
• Charging Speed: Faster with a Level 2 charger (6-8 hours).
• Tesla Compatibility: Possible with a Magic Dock or adapter.

With its range, affordable charging, and options for both home and public charging, the Equinox EV can fit into many lifestyles. If you’re considering a switch to an EV, the Chevy Equinox EV offers both value and practicality, especially if you’re ready to embrace the convenience of electric driving. Whether you’re planning to charge at home or use public charging stations, the Equinox EV makes it easy to hit the road with confidence.