- Home
- Government
- Departments
- Community Services
- Sustainability
- Electric Vehicles
Electric Vehicles
Discover the Benefits of Driving an Electric Vehicle (EV)
There are many reasons drivers make the switch to electric vehicles. EVs are fun and safe to ride and drive, can save you money, and promote cleaner air quality. Plus, with the increasing number of EV charging stations, range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past! Below you'll find helpful information and resources to take the next steps toward an EV future
Trade in Your Vehicle for an Extra $9,000
Colorado's Vehicle Exchange Colorado (VXC) program helps income-qualified Coloradans recycle and replace their old or high-emitting vehicles with electric vehicles. The VXC rebate will partially cover the upfront cost of the EV at the time of purchase or lease from an authorized automobile dealer up to $6,000.
Learn more about the VXC program
EV Resources for Residents
- Have fun - With more EV and hybrid models available now, you have a wider selection to choose from. EV drivers get high performance, quick acceleration, and a quiet, comfortable driving experience.
- Convenient and Easy to Charge - Charging an EV is accessible and convenient. Eliminate trips to the gas station by charging your car at home while you sleep. Need to top off your charge during the day? There are approximately 35 charging stations within Westminster's city limits!
- Breathe cleaner air - EVs produce fewer air pollutants from tailpipe emissions than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, contributing to a healthier community and cleaner air. Fueling with EVs can reduce emissions by two-thirds, versus a gas-powered vehicle; and powering your EV will only get cleaner over time as the electrical grid transitions to more renewable energy.
- Save money - EVs don't require as much standard maintenance as ICE vehicles, saving you money on things like oil changes and tune-ups. And if you charge your EV when electricity demand is low, it can cost you less to re-fuel! EV owners can save up to 50% on maintenance and operations costs. With low, off-peak energy prices, driving electric equates to spending less than $1 per gallon of gasoline. You can also receive federal and local tax incentives to help make EVs even more affordable.
Plugging in your EV is as simple as it sounds. Visit the Xcel Energy website to decide which option is best for you.
At-Home Charging
Most EV owners re-charge with a Level 1 or a Level 2 charger at home. Level 1 uses a standard outlet, so you can start charging right away if there is an outlet near your parking area. Level 2 chargers may require an electrician and usually require a building permit to install. Some newer homes are being built to support EV charging, either by including the pre-wiring to support a 240-volt outlet, or even by installing a 240-volt outlet in the garage or home exterior. It's important to choose an electrician who is licensed, insured, and knowledgeable about the charging equipment. Visit the Home Charging Advisor to learn more about home charging.
Multifamily Charging
If you live in an apartment or condo, ask your property management company to explore EV charging station programs from Xcel Energy. You can also view Electric Vehicle Charging Resources for Businesses and Multifamily Property Owners.
Public Charging
Worried about finding a charger? Websites and apps like Plugshare and EVHype can help you conveniently locate charging stations, leave reviews, and connect with other plug-in vehicle owners.
Additionally, the City of Westminster has installed multiple EV charging stations throughout the City. Residents and visitors can charge their electric vehicles for up to four hours at the following locations or can find other options for charging on the go by using the following station locator.
- Downtown Westminster Parking Garage (8855 Eaton Street)
- Downtown Westminster on-street (5862 W Central Ave)
- Westminster Station Parking Garage (6995 Grove Street)
- Westminster City Hall (4800 W 92nd Avenue)
Electric vehicle charging is currently available free of charge for users with a ChargePoint membership. This policy is subject to change to address customer demand and station availability. Visit ChargePoint for more information on charging fees and creating an account.
Steps to Purchasing an EV
- Know Your Range - An EV's range defines how far your vehicle can travel between charging. It's important to match the range of your vehicle with how far you plan to travel between charging. Most EVs on the market today offer a range of between 200-400 miles. If your commute is less than 250 miles per day, there is likely an affordable EV model that will fit your needs!
- Select your EV - In addition to range, there are several factors to consider when picking an EV, such as fuel type and price. Every electric vehicle has a plug and runs on electricity but there are two main types. Use Xcel Energy's EV Catalogue or the PlugStar Shopping Assistant to find the vehicle that best suits your needs.
- Find an EV Dealer - Once you've found a car you like, use Xcel Energy's dealership map or the Find Electric Car Dealers page from PlugStar. If you are interested in buying a used EV, consider browsing the Used Electric Vehicle Buyer's Guide from Plug In America.
- Access Financial Resources and Rebates - You can lower the upfront costs of an EV with state tax credits, federal tax credits, and rebates. Learn more about savings at the Xcel Energy website.
EV Resources for Business and Multifamily
- Attract customers and retain residents - Offering EV charging stations can distinguish your business or building from others. Lack of access to convenient EV charging stations could be a deal-breaker for new and existing customers or residents who own an EV.
- Prepare for the Future - Be a leader and differentiate your business or property with EV charging amenities. As EVs become more common so will charging infrastructure. Stay ahead of the trend by installing chargers now.
- Show your commitment to sustainability - You can help your community achieve their sustainability goals by promoting sustainable transportation.
There are many charging options for your business or multifamily property. Some key considerations include:
- Who will use the charging stations?
- Will a form of payment be required?
- Who will be responsible for maintaining the stations?
Wondering Where to Start
Consider reaching out to a coach at Drive Electric Colorado who can walk you through the different options for your business or residential property. You can also contact Colorado Energy Office or Xcel Energy for advisory services as you walk through the following steps.
Types of Charging
Payment Options
Once you select your EV charging equipment provider, you can work with them to select different payment structures like free charging, charge by electricity use, charge by time, or charge by a flat rate .
Charging Programs
Xcel Energy offers several charging programs for businesses and multifamily units. See below to learn more and begin the process.
- EV charging at work/for employees
- EV charging for customers (public fast-charging)
- EV charging for small businesses
- EV charging for residents (multi-family)
Financial Resources and Rebates
- Grant funding: Your building or property might qualify for a Charge Ahead Colorado grant which can cover up to 80% of charging station costs. The Colorado Energy Office can help you with the grant process by offering free advice and application review.
- Utility Rebates: Check with your electric utility provider to see what types of EV charging infrastructure resources are available. Visit the Xcel Energy EV Solutions page to learn more.
Permitting Resources:
Benefits of Electrifying Your Fleet
- Lower operating costs: Electricity costs are more stable than gasoline prices.
- Reduced maintenance costs: EVs don't require oil changes, transmission service, or new spark plugs; their brakes last longer; and batteries are typically covered by a warranty of up to 8 years or 100,000 miles.
- Meet sustainability goals: EVs will help you lower your overall emissions and meet your organization's sustainability goals.
Financial Incentives
You may be eligible for federal and state tax credits, as well as state grants to help offset your transition to EVs. Resources include:
- Charge Ahead Colorado grant program for leased vehicles.
- Denver Metro Clean Cities maintains a list of incentives available in Colorado.
- Colorado Energy Office provides support in identifying and applying for funding opportunities.
Learn more about resources and information on Xcel Energy's Business Services EV Solutions page.
Installing a Home Charging Station? Make Sure You're Making the Most of It with These Three Steps
If you're looking to reap the benefits of riving electric and installing your own efficient EV charger, here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Find out which type of charger best suits your needs: To determine what type of charger is right for you, you'll need to consider how many miles you drive daily as well as whether your vehicle is fully electric or a gas and electric hybrid. If you have a plug-in hybrid car that only goes roughly 15-30 miles on pure electricity, you can rely on a standard 120V outlet and won't need to upgrade your electrical panel as these cars can be served by a charger (provided with the car) that plugs directly into a standard electrical outlet. Fully electric vehicles, however, have large batteries and ranges of 100-400 miles and require a more powerful, 240V charger. These provide much faster charging and will allow for daily use of your EV, without worrying about running out of charge. Look for an ENERGY STAR certified EV charger to maximize your savings
- Make sure your home is electric ready: If you're looking to charge your vehicle at home, you'll want to make sure your home is electric ready and able to handle the new electrical demands from charging your EV. The extent of the electric upgrades your home might need varies depending on your circumstances, but getting ahead of the game and upgrading your electric panel and making sure you have the necessary wiring will prepare you to install an efficient EV charger at home.
- Take advantage of incentives to lower costs: There are lots of incentives to take advantage of that will help lower the cost of driving electric. Whether you need to upgrade your home's electric panel, install an energy-efficient EV charger, or save on purchasing an electric vehicle, there are multiple incentives you can take advantage of that will make driving electric more affordable.
Did you know....all electric vehicles produce about 1/2 less tailpipe emissions than conventional internal-combustion vehicles do in Colorado?!
Learn how EVs compare to gas fueled and hybrid vehicles
Learn More and Get Involved
Drive Electric Colorado
Drive Electric Colorado is dedicated to helping you make decisions that bring about cleaner air in Colorado through a variety of clean transportation and efficient mobility choices like electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and connected mobility.
Learn about how to get involved, events, and more!
EV CO
Learn about the new electric vehicle education initiative from the State of Colorado that is designed to highlight how driving electric fits the needs of any Coloradan lifestyle.
Check Out "EV CO"
City EV Action Plan
The City of Westminster promotes and encourages the use of electric vehicles. In 2020, Westminster developed its first EV Action Plan through Xcel Energy Partners in Energy. The plan outlines a goal to improve air quality through EV adoption by cost-effectively electrifying the City's fleet, increasing public charging, and encouraging private adoption.
Electric Bikes (E-Bikes):
Westminster is home to plenty of trails and parks widely used by residents and visitors. E-bikes are a popular clean and healthy mode of transportation.
Benefits of E-Bikes:
E-bikes have a range of benefits. They help people:
- Run errands and make shorter trips quicker while reducing air pollution
Provide first- and last-mile connections to public transit.
Live healthier lives. They get users moving outside as they travel from one place to another.
Use their car(s) less and save money on gas.
Bike longer distances and on tough terrain, like hills and dirt roads.
Safety and Rules of the Road: Please ride responsibly and make sure you know the different classifications and rules.
All E-Bikes are allowed on roadways and must follow the rules of the road. The City only allows Class 1 & Class 2 E-Bikes which are limited to motor assist up to 20 mph on sidewalks, trails and in parks.
Currently, the City of Westminster does regulate E-Bikes consistent with Colorado Revised Statutes 42-1-102 (28.5).
Learn more about e-bike safety and regulations on the Community Safety webpage here