As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, many people are questioning how gas stations and EV charging stations compare, especially when it comes to their density and availability. Does it matter how many charging stations there are compared to gas stations? Let’s explore why density is a critical factor in the widespread adoption of EVs and how it impacts drivers.

The density of EV charging stations¹ plays a crucial role in making electric vehicles more convenient, but the comparison with traditional gas stations is more complex than it seems.

I’ve often heard people say that EVs are “too inconvenient” because they don’t have enough charging stations. But in reality, it’s not just about having enough stations—it’s about having the right distribution of charging points. Just as you wouldn’t want to drive long distances without knowing there’s a gas station nearby, EV drivers need to feel confident that there’s a charging station within reach. Density matters, and here’s why.

What is the 80% rule for EV charging²?

The 80% rule refers to the concept of charging an electric vehicle (EV) up to 80% of its battery capacity instead of charging it fully. This is because charging an EV battery from 80% to 100% takes significantly longer than charging it from 0% to 80%. By following the 80% rule, you can save time, reduce battery wear, and improve the overall efficiency of the charging process.

The 80% rule helps EV owners save time, enhance battery lifespan, and avoid unnecessary long charges.

This rule is especially important for those who need to charge quickly. Many fast chargers will charge an EV’s battery from 0% to 80% much faster than topping it off completely. For daily commutes, an 80% charge is often all you need. It’s a practice that not only maximizes convenience but also extends the long-term health of your battery.

What is the ratio of gas stations to charging stations?

The current ratio of gas stations to EV charging stations³ is still heavily tilted toward gas stations, but the gap is narrowing. In the United States, there are roughly 150,000 gas stations compared to around 40,000 EV charging stations (as of 2023). However, as electric vehicles become more mainstream, the number of charging stations is rapidly increasing.

There are far more gas stations than charging stations, but the gap is shrinking as EV adoption grows.

As EV adoption continues to rise, governments and private companies are investing heavily in the expansion of charging infrastructure. With more people switching to electric cars, the demand for charging stations will only continue to increase, and the gap between the number of gas stations and charging stations will continue to close.

Which really costs more: charging an EV or filling up your tank with gas?

When comparing the cost of charging an electric vehicle⁴ to filling up a traditional gas tank, the cost of charging is generally much lower. On average, charging an EV costs about half as much per mile compared to fueling a gasoline car. The exact cost depends on electricity rates in your area, but on average, charging an EV can cost anywhere from $0.10 to $0.20 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), whereas gasoline costs roughly $3 to $4 per gallon.

Charging an EV is typically cheaper than filling up a gas tank, making it more cost-effective in the long run.

While the initial cost of purchasing an EV may be higher than a gasoline car, the ongoing costs are significantly lower. Over time, the savings on fuel can add up, making electric vehicles an appealing option for cost-conscious drivers. Additionally, many electric car owners benefit from home charging, where electricity rates can be more affordable.

How many EV charging stations⁵ compared to gas stations⁶?

As of recent reports, the number of EV charging stations is growing at a rapid pace, but gas stations still outnumber them by a significant margin. However, the availability of charging stations is not as widespread in rural or less populated areas, whereas gas stations are often much more ubiquitous. While there are roughly 40,000 charging stations in the U.S., this number is expected to continue growing as more EVs hit the road.

The number of EV charging stations is growing, but gas stations still far outnumber them.

In areas with higher EV adoption, the number of charging stations is typically much higher, but in rural areas⁷, the gap remains wide. Over the next decade, we can expect the density of EV charging stations to increase as governments and private companies expand infrastructure to meet the rising demand.

Conclusion

The density of EV charging stations is a key factor in the future of electric vehicles. While gas stations still dominate the landscape, the rapid growth of charging stations is closing the gap. By improving the availability and accessibility of EV chargers, we can make electric vehicles more convenient and practical for everyday use. The future of transportation is electric, and the infrastructure is evolving to meet the demand.