MYTH:EVs don’t have enough range to handle everyday needs. FACT: Most EVs offer ranges between 250–350 miles per charge and long haul EVs offer ranges of 450-550 miles.
MYTH:EVs require more maintenance than gas carsFACT: EVs can require less maintenance because there are fewer moving parts, reduced brake wear, and no oil changes.
MYTH:There is nowhere to charge.FACT: Through DLC’s Community and Fleet Charging Program we have installed over 320 charging ports or about 40% of all public chargers in our service area.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a vehicle that runs on electricity that is stored in a battery and uses electric motor to drive. EVs repower their battery by plugging into a charging station or outlet.
Check out our EV Guide to compare EVs, cost of ownership, incentives, and more.
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EV Registration Incentive
Duquesne Light customers can receive $50 of EV Bonus Cash as a gift card or direct deposit just for letting us know that you own or lease an EV.
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Assuming a Pittsburgh driver uses 38 gallons of gas each month, a 30 mpg gas vehicle would currently cost about $171/month. Powering an EV would cost around $75/month for the same distance.
The average new EV today offers a range of nearly 300 miles, which meets the daily mileage needs of most drivers.
Did you know?By 2030, Pennsylvania is expected to feature fast-charging stations every 50 miles along every major highway corridor, making long-distance EV travel easier and more reliable.
EVs use two main home charging options:
Typically included with your EV purchase, Level 1 home chargers plug into a standard 120-volt electrical outlet but only provide 3–5 miles of charging per hour.
Level 2 chargers are the most common option as they can fully recharge most EVs overnight. Installation depends on whether you already have a 240 volt electrical outlet, need new wiring, or require a panel upgrade.
Level 2 charging station equipment can cost between $300-$600 depending on brand and type of charger. The typical cost to install an EV charger ranges from $800 to $3,000, depending on your home’s electrical needs and set up. Visit our EV Charging page to learn more about installing a Level 2 charging station in your home.
Plug in your ZIP Code and see a complete list of charging stations conveniently located in your area.
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Lower Maintenance: Electric vehicles require minimal upkeep because components like the battery, motor, and electronics need little to no routine servicing.
At-Home Charging: Most EV owners can easily meet daily driving needs by charging overnight at home. Modern chargers are weather-resistant and often include remote monitoring features for added convenience. Visit our Already Own an EV guide to learn more.
Fuel Savings: In Pittsburgh, driving electric costs about $1.97 per e-gallon (gallon of gasoline-equivalent). That means EV drivers can expect to spend $3.55 - $5.90 on electricity per each full charge at-home with the average EV.
Lower Environmental Impact: EVs are more energy-efficient than gas cars and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions over their lifetime usage. EVs also have no tailpipe emissions, which helps improve local air quality.
Battery Life & Recycling: All EV batteries come with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, offering peace of mind for long-term ownership. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory of the United States predicts current EV batteries will have service lives between 12 and 15 years if used in moderate climates. At end of life, EV batteries are recyclable, and many manufacturers have programs to repurpose or recycle battery materials.
Torque: EVs deliver instant torque, resulting in quick, smooth acceleration. Performance often rivals or exceeds similar gas-powered models>
Noise: Without the noise and vibration of a conventional gas or diesel engine, you are free to enjoy a quieter drive, both in and out of the city.
Towing Capacity: If your EV is approved to tow, you can pull up to maximum weight limits just as you would with a gas car. Consider the distance you will travel while towing. Total range can noticeably decrease when towing near weight capacity, that’s still competitive with gas vehicles as the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that gas-powered vehicles lose about 1% of their fuel economy for every additional 100 pounds of load.
Climate: Extreme temperatures impact EVs range. You can expect to see depletion in range and more frequent charging in temperatures of 20 degrees and below or 95 degrees and above.