The ConnectDER EV Meter Socket Adapter Will Change The Way We Install Home EV Charging Equipment

Summary

The video showcases the installation of the Connector EV charger, an innovative product designed to simplify electric vehicle charging installations in homes with limited electrical capacity. By using a meter-socket adapter, the Connector avoids costly electrical upgrades, making it a more affordable solution for homeowners. The system allows simultaneous use of EV chargers and other high-demand appliances like hot tubs. The pilot program in Vermont demonstrates the product's efficiency, with plans for future expansion. This groundbreaking solution could democratize EV adoption and electrification, especially for homes with older or limited electrical systems.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Connector product offers a cost-effective solution for EV charging installations, reducing the need for expensive electrical panel upgrades.
• 😀 With an installation cost of around $1,000, the Connector makes EV home charging more accessible, particularly for homeowners with older electrical systems.
• 😀 The product's plug-and-play design allows for a simple, quick installation process, typically under one hour, saving time and money.
• 😀 The Connector can be installed in homes with 100 amp or 125 amp electrical services, addressing the common issue of insufficient electrical capacity for EV chargers.
• 😀 The installation process involves mounting the Connector near the home's electrical meter, then running conduit to the desired charging location, often taking 15-25 minutes.
• 😀 Utilities in different regions have varying regulations, but the Connector is gaining approval as more utilities, like Green Mountain Power, begin to support the product.
• 😀 The product's design includes built-in overcurrent protection to prevent circuit overload, allowing it to safely provide power to both an EV charger and other household appliances.
• 😀 Connector plans to expand to other states and regions, making the product more widely available in the near future.
• 😀 The long-term vision for the Connector includes enabling bidirectional charging for EVs, allowing cars to provide backup power to homes during outages.
• 😀 Kia has partnered with Connector to promote EV adoption, recognizing that affordable installation options will help more customers transition to electric vehicles.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Connector product?

The Connector product is designed to simplify and reduce the cost of home EV charger installations by allowing homeowners to connect directly to their existing meter socket, avoiding expensive service panel upgrades.

How much does the Connector product typically cost to install?

The installation cost for the Connector is typically around $1,000, significantly lower than traditional service upgrades, which can cost between $5,000 and $6,000.

How long does it take to install the Connector system?

The installation of the Connector unit itself can be completed in about 25–30 minutes, though this may vary depending on the complexity of the setup and any additional work required, like running conduit around the house.

What types of electrical service does the Connector support?

The Connector supports homes with 100-amp or 125-amp electrical service. The product is designed to help avoid the need for a costly service panel upgrade when installing an EV charger in homes with these service capacities.

Can the Connector product be used for homes with 200-amp electrical service?

Currently, the Connector is available in 100-amp and 125-amp versions, but the company plans to develop a 200-amp version in the future to accommodate homes with larger electrical services.

What is the key benefit of using the Connector for EV charging installations?

The key benefit of using the Connector is its ability to reduce the cost and complexity of installing an EV charger at home. It avoids the need for a full service panel upgrade, making EV charging more accessible to homeowners with limited electrical capacity.

How does the Connector product ensure safety during installation?

The Connector product is designed to be safe even during installation. The system is finger-safe and can be left installed without the charger, ensuring that no one is at risk of electric shock or injury before the charger is connected.

What role did Green Mountain Power play in the Connector product's development?

Green Mountain Power, Vermont's local utility provider, was the first utility to approve the Connector product, enabling its installation in Vermont as part of a pilot program for EV charging solutions.

What future enhancements are planned for the Connector product?

The company plans to integrate bidirectional charging capabilities, allowing EVs to power homes during outages. This would eliminate the need for separate backup power systems and simplify the process of using an EV as a home power source.

How does the Connector simplify the process of charging multiple devices at home, such as an EV and a hot tub?

The Connector makes it possible to charge an EV at home without overloading the electrical system. By using the Connector, homeowners can power multiple devices (like an EV and a hot tub) at the same time, avoiding the need for costly service upgrades to handle the increased electrical demand.