Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular and while most accessories are the same as gas cars, there are several must-have products that every EV owner should consider and are more specific to electric vehicles. So we have researched, tested and curated this list of ten essential items that will make owning and driving an electric vehicle even more enjoyable and convenient.
Let’s get to it with no more fluff!
1. Home Charging Station
While your EV comes with a standard charging cable, upgrading to a home charging station can significantly reduce charging time. These stations often offer higher power levels than standard outlets and can be installed indoors or outdoors. Almost all have mobile applications as well so you can evaluate metrics remotely. We recommend that you look for models with smart features such as scheduling and remote monitoring to optimize charging efficiency and lower electricity costs. This is essentially handy if you have free nights and weekends with your electric company. Right now the EMPORIA EV Charger Level 2 and ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 fit the bill with all the features you need and thousand of 4.5+ star reviews.
2. Car Charging Port Cover
Protecting your EV’s charging port is crucial, especially if you often charge your vehicle outdoors. A car charging port cover shields the charging port from rain, snow, and dust, ensuring your electrical connections remain dry and clean for efficient charging. Made from durable, waterproof materials, these covers are easy to install and fit snugly over the charging port, providing a reliable barrier against harsh weather conditions. The LZSTEC EV Charger Port Cover is a solid choice that uses magnets to secure itself. While not 100% waterproof it does provide a legitimate layer of protection compared to going without.
3. Charging Cable Organizer
To keep your charging area neat and safe, a charging cable organizer is a must. These holders prevent your cables from tangling and getting damaged. They are easy to install and can be placed in your garage or driveway. Some models even include hooks or shelves for additional storage of adapters and other accessories. Look for heavy-duty options that are weather-resistant for outdoor use. One top rated and highly compatible even with Tesla is the SEVEN SPARTA Charging Cable Holder.
4. Sunshade for Windshield
A sunshade for your windshield is essential for keeping your car’s interior cool, especially during hot summer days. By reducing the temperature inside your car, a sunshade can help conserve battery life, as the air conditioning won’t have to work as hard to cool the cabin. This simple accessory can improve your driving comfort and increase your EV’s efficiency. Covercraft is a winner over and over in both reviews and reddit threads including this one from Phoenix residents. If there is one group I would trust too on reviews, it would be people surviving in Phoenix weather where most months you can cook an egg on the sidewalk.
5. Extension Cord for EV Chargers
An extension cord designed for EV chargers can be incredibly useful when your charging setup is far from your vehicle. Ensure the extension cord is heavy-duty and rated for the power load of your charger to avoid any safety hazards. You are also going to need to find the exact extension for your 240V plug configuration. We recommend CircleCord and GearIT for brands, two heavy duty, top tier leaders in the space.
6. EV Charging Adapters
Charging adapters allow you to connect to different types of charging stations and plugs. This is especially useful when traveling, as charging infrastructure can vary widely. Adapters like the Lectron adapter make it possible to use Tesla charging stations with non-Tesla vehicles, expanding your charging options and reducing range anxiety.
7. Electric Car Jack & Electric Airpump
An electric car jack can make changing a tire much easier, especially in emergencies. These jacks are powered by your car’s power outlet and can lift your vehicle with minimal effort. Some models also include additional features like built-in tire inflators and LED lights for nighttime use. The E-HEELP Electric Car Jack Kit is a popular choice among EV owners. It also has a built in flashlight, air pump and impact wrench.
8. Heated Car Seat Covers
For those cold winter months, heated car seat covers are a must-have. These covers provide warmth quickly and efficiently, allowing you to save EV battery life by reducing the need for the car’s built-in heater. The load from HVAC vs. these covers are night and day. They are easy to install and can be used in any vehicle, making them a versatile accessory for any EV owner. Brands like SriGM offer high-quality options with multiple heat settings.
9. Disco Ball or Fun Interior Lights
Add a touch of fun to your EV with a disco ball or other fun interior lights. These accessories can transform your car’s interior into a lively space, perfect for parties or having a a goof while you wait. Look for options that are easy to install and have standard plugs. Products like the Lmaytech USB disco ball are great for adding some extra flair. Just don’t drive and disco!
10. All-Weather Floor Mats
Protect your EV’s interior with all-weather floor mats. These mats are designed to handle dirt, mud, snow, and spills, keeping your car clean and preserving its resale value. They are easy to clean and typically custom-fit for different EV models. Brands like WeatherTech and Husky Liners offer durable and stylish options. We have tested WeatherTech and can stand by the product! We can’t even count how many times these have saved us from pet, kid, paint, etc. etc. etc. accidents.
I have the power cable from my home charger routed over a hook in the ceiling so that it hangs down right at the port in the front of my Nissan Leaf.
A trailer with a diesel generator so the EV charges as I travel?