Utilizing Electrify America 330 times over two years, I managed to charge my 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 without any cost, but now it's about time to switch to home charging.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Owner Shares Two Years of Electric Vehicle Ownership Experience
In a post on the r/Ioniq5 subreddit, user zpoon, an owner of a Hyundai Ioniq 5, shared their experience of charging their vehicle over two years. The user's experience provides a compelling demonstration of the benefits and practicality of electric vehicle (EV) ownership, particularly when combined with the right infrastructure and incentives.
The Ioniq 5's design language draws from pixelated LED lights and angular lines inspired by 1980s concepts, with aerodynamic elements such as flush door handles and a parametric pixel theme. This high-tech aesthetic is matched by the vehicle's advanced 800V architecture, which allows for DC fast charging capabilities of up to 350 kW. In real-world terms, this means a charge from 10% to 80% can be achieved in approximately 18 minutes at fast public chargers like Electrify America stations.
Charging at Electrify America offers rapid, on-the-go power replenishment ideal for road trips or busy schedules. The station, often located near shopping centers or convenient stops, allows drivers to use that charging time for activities like decompression, work, or entertainment. Zpoon, for example, made use of their charging sessions to relax, work, and watch media on their vehicle's head unit.
In contrast, home Level 2 charging offers the convenience of overnight charging with a dedicated charger, such as the ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2. Hyundai provides buyers with either a home charger or a credit towards one as part of purchase incentives.
However, the user's experience with free Electrify America DC fast charging provides a proof of concept for what EV ownership can look like when infrastructure and incentives align. Over two years, zpoon's charging cost savings at the EA station would have been around $9,757 compared to home charging costs of $3,354 for the same energy. With the recent changes to incentives, the 2025 Ioniq 5 no longer includes the previous two years of free Electrify America DC fast charging, unlike the 2024 model. Instead, Hyundai now offers a $400 credit or a home Level 2 charger, incentivizing owners more for home charging setups than public fast charging usage.
Zpoon's experience with the Ioniq 5 and the EA charging station shows that electric vehicles can deliver peace of mind, with no noise, no fumes, and a reliable charger. The EA charging station the user frequently used was located 15 seconds off their daily commute, ensuring a hassle-free charging experience. The station was often unoccupied, with zpoon being the only one charging 90% of the time.
The Ioniq 5's quick-charge capabilities and design make it a versatile EV for both daily commutes and spirited drives. The vehicle's high-performance N variation, featuring up to 641 horsepower, sport-tuned suspension, N-specific modes like drift and boost, and retro-futuristic design features, further enhances its appeal.
In summary, the user's experience highlights the potential for real-world returns when incentives like Hyundai's free two-year EA charging plan are leveraged smartly. Real-world EV ownership isn't always about range anxiety, charger meltdowns, or the latest over-the-air update. Instead, it can provide a commute that pays dividends, as shown by the two years of charging cost savings. The Ioniq 5's advanced 800V architecture maximizes fast charging efficiency in public settings while supporting practical home charging for everyday use.
The user's two-year experience with the Ioniq 5 demonstrates that the right finance incentives, such as Hyundai's free two-year Electrify America charging plan, can significantly impact the overall cost of electric vehicle (EV) ownership. On the flip side, adopting a lifestyle that incorporates technology-driven solutions, like utilizing public charging stations during downtime, can lead to substantial cost savings compared to home charging.
