Texas has quickly become one of the hottest markets for electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Major metros lead the nation in EV registrations, with Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y along with Ford’s F-150 Lightning ranking among the state’s best selling models.
But for drivers considering an electric upgrade, questions linger regarding real-world costs, available incentives and Texas’ EV charging infrastructure plans. This guide aims to provide a helpful overview of everything involved with transitioning to an emissions-free, electron-powered ride in the Lone Star State.
The Quick Rundown on Owning an EV in Texas
Here’s a high-level summary before we get into the details:
- Charging Infrastructure: Texas currently has around 2,400 EV charging stations. Major investments to add more fast-charging ports are underway statewide.
- Battery Costs: Based on average residential electricity rates, “fueling” a typical EV in Texas costs 1/3rd as much as gas.
- Incentives: A point-of-sale rebate up to $2,500 is available for qualifying vehicle purchases. No additional Texas tax credits.
- The Future: EV interest and sales keep accelerating thanks to model diversity, expanding charging access and favorable economics versus gas vehicles.
Now let’s take a closer look at each of these aspects of the EV ownership experience in Texas.
Assessing Texas’ Current EV Charging Infrastructure
As part of the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Texas will receive $408 million over five years to expand electric vehicle charging across the state.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is taking the lead administering these funds through its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan. This ambitious roadmap aims to extend charging coverage along major travel corridors by placing new DC fast-charging ports every 50 miles on key Texas highways.
| Charger Type | Charging Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-5 miles of range per charging hour | Uses standard 120V household outlet |
| Level 2 | 10-20 miles of range per charging hour | Requires 240V input (like clothes dryer) |
| DC Fast Charge | 60-80% charge in ~30 minutes | New US standard connects to existing CCS/SAE plugs |
Texas currently ranks 4th nationally with around 2,400 public EV charging stations reported in operation statewide. The top-ranked cities include:
- Houston – 738 ports
- Dallas/Fort Worth – 649 ports
- San Antonio – 501 ports
- Austin – 528 ports
These figures account for all Level 2 chargers along with available DC fast-charging stations.
Calculating EV Charging Costs in Texas
One major factor for drivers considering an EV is how much they can save on daily commuting compared to gas vehicles. The fuel cost differences are eye-opening thanks to economical Texas electricity rates.
Based on 2022 data from the US Department of Energy, the average cost to charge an EV battery in Texas is $0.133 per kWh for residential charging. That compares very favorably to the $0.44 per kWh average electricity price nationwide.
Public DC fast-charging stations cost more at around $0.30 per kWh, but remain affordable compared to soaring gas prices.
Here’s a breakdown of charging estimates and estimated yearly fuel costs for some of the best selling EVs in Texas:
| EV Model | Battery Size | Charge Cost – Home | Charge Cost – Public | Est. Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | 60 kWh | $8 | $18 | $500 |
| Tesla Model Y | 82 kWh | $11 | $25 | $650 |
| Ford Mustang Mach E | 76 kWh | $10 | $23 | $600 |
| Ford F-150 Lightning | 98 kWh | $13 | $29 | $825 |
| Chevrolet Bolt | 66 kWh | $9 | $20 | $550 |
| Kia Niro EV | 58 kWh | $8 | $17 | $475 |
With gas prices spiking over $4 per gallon on average nationally as of March 2023, many EV models now offer fuel savings of up to $2,000 per year or more for drivers.
Texas Incentives for EV Adoption
To help accelerate EV sales statewide, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality offers a purchase incentive for eligible battery and plug-in hybrid electric models through its Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP).
The state currently provides point-of-sale rebates up to $2,500 for new EVs purchased or leased and registered with the Texas DMV for on-road use in select participating counties. Key stipulations include:
- Rebates awarded on first-come, first-served basis as long as annual funding lasts
- Individual applicants limited to 10 rebates per year
- Vehicles must have minimum 4 kWh battery capacity
- Rebate not transferrable if vehicle sold within 3 years
Unfortunately Texas does not currently extend any state tax credits or non-cash incentives for EVs, unlike leading states like California which offer up to $4,500 in combined rebates and credits.
The Outlook for Surging EV Adoption in Texas
While significant obstacles remain compared to gas-powered vehicles – namely upfront costs, model availability and lack of consumer familiarity – EV interest and adoption rates continue accelerating across Texas.
Several positive factors indicate strong continued growth statewide:
- Ongoing model diversity expansion from traditional and new automakers
- Improving battery ranges between charging stops
- Major public and private investment underway in charging infrastructure
- High consumer interest driven by innovation and favorable operating costs
The recently passed federal infrastructure bill will help Texas tremendously in expanding its charging network over the next five years. And new companies like San Antonio’s Power Electronics are advancing technologies locally that will also help improve adoption.
In summary, from an EV charging network and cost standpoint, Texas ranks favorably among all states as a solid place to own and operate an electric vehicle today. The economics and forthcoming charging infrastructure upgrades especially bode well for expediting mass adoption moving forward.
So for drivers looking to avoid soaring gas costs, reduce environmental impact and embrace the future of transportation, exciting and affordable EV options await in the Lone Star state. The future for electric vehicles across Texas looks increasingly bright!
I hope this overview has provided a helpful summary of everything involved with owning an electric car in Texas. Let me know if you have any other questions!
