AAA Expands Fuel Gauge Report to Include Electric Vehicle Charging Costs in South Dakota

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly mainstream, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has taken a significant step to keep consumers informed by expanding its weekly Fuel Gauge Report to include the cost of electricity for public charging. This update is particularly relevant for South Dakota, which has recently been highlighted as one of the top 10 states with the most expensive public charging rates.

The Rising Cost of Public Charging in South Dakota

According to the latest report, South Dakota ranks among the top 10 states for public charging costs, with an average price of 41 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). This places the state alongside others such as Hawaii (57 cents), West Virginia (45 cents), and Idaho (43 cents). The report indicates that the costs of charging can vary significantly across the country, with some states like Kansas (22 cents), Missouri (24 cents), and Delaware (26 cents) offering much lower rates.

The inclusion of electricity costs in the Fuel Gauge Report reflects the growing importance of EVs in the automotive landscape. As more consumers consider making the switch to electric, understanding the financial implications of charging becomes essential.

A Timely Update for National Drive Electric Week

Shawn Steward, spokesperson for AAA South Dakota, emphasized the significance of this update, particularly as it coincides with National Drive Electric Week, which begins on September 27th. “This is a fitting time to recognize that electric vehicle ownership, once reserved for the rare auto enthusiast, has become mainstream enough to prompt AAA to add electricity to its weekly consumer report,” he stated. This acknowledgment underscores the shift in consumer attitudes toward electric vehicles and the need for comprehensive resources to support potential and current EV owners.

The Surge in Electric Vehicle Sales

The timing of this report is further underscored by recent data from Cox Automotive, which indicates that U.S. electric vehicle sales in the second quarter of 2024 increased by nearly 23% compared to the first quarter and were up more than 11% from the same period last year. This surge in sales highlights the growing acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles across the nation, including in South Dakota.

AAA’s Resources for EV Owners

In response to the increasing interest in electric and hybrid vehicles, AAA offers a variety of resources designed to assist consumers in making informed decisions. These resources include:

• EV.AAA.com: A dedicated website providing information to help consumers with buying decisions, ownership, and used electric vehicle sales.
• Data Analysis by Recurrent: AAA partners with Recurrent to provide insights into the best and worst states for purchasing electric vehicles.
• Your Driving Costs Report: A tool that compares the costs associated with EVs, hybrids, and traditional gas-fueled vehicles.
• TripTik Travel Planner: This planner helps EV owners map out travel routes that include charging stations, ensuring a smooth journey.
• AAA Mobile App: The app features a gas finder section where members can filter for nearby charging stations, making it easier for EV owners to locate charging options on the go.

Navigating the Transition to Electric Vehicles

As South Dakota continues to adapt to the rise of electric vehicles, AAA remains a valuable resource for motorists navigating this transition. The expansion of the Fuel Gauge Report to include electricity costs is just one of the many ways AAA is supporting consumers in understanding the evolving landscape of automotive energy consumption.

In conclusion, as electric vehicle ownership becomes more prevalent, the need for transparent and accessible information regarding charging costs is paramount. AAA’s commitment to providing comprehensive resources and data reflects its dedication to supporting all motorists, whether they are considering an electric vehicle, have already made the switch, or are looking to sell their EV. With the right information at their fingertips, consumers can make informed decisions that align with their driving needs and environmental goals.