New York electric drivers get charger relief

Those in the New York area who want to adopt one of the upcoming electric vehicle models but are worried about the cost just got some good news.

Through a government federal grant program, home chargers – which can run upwards of $2,000 – will be given away for free to select early adopters of electric vehicles, according to the New York Times. It’s part of the government’s initiative to increase America’s fuel economy and get electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road.

Coulumb, a California-based company, manufactures the chargers for electric vehicles that will be distributed through the program to nine regions across the country, including New York.

"We’re excited about being in New York, because aside from the Mini E program and the Tesla Roadster, it hasn’t seen much E.V. action," CEO Richard Lowenthal told the news source. "We expect to have a great reception there.”

Consumers who want to be more fuel-efficient now can save money by purchasing hybrid cars from a used car dealership. In addition, New York used car dealers should have electric models in stock shortly after their release later this year.