Electric Vehicles and the EV Pilot Project

Electric vehicles, or EVS, are a type of Zero Emission Vehicle, or ZEV. ZEVs are vehicles or equipment that produce no tailpipe emissions and use alternative power sources, such as electricity or hydrogen. They can include passenger vehicles, buses, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and other equipment. 

There are three main types: 

• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – run fully on electricity, with no tail-pipe emissions, and are charged by plugging in to electric chargers. 

• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – have both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. They use both electricity (charged by plugging in) and gasoline/diesel. They produce zero tailpipe emissions when using the electric motor. 

• Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) – use hydrogen as fuel, emitting only water vapor. FCEVs are less available than BEVs and PHEVs due to the lack of refueling stations and higher cost. 

For a comprehensive guide to all EV types, including costs, incentives, and benefits of EV ownership, visit CAA’s online portal. 

To help find the right EV for you, visit Plug ‘N Drive.

Charging Levels

• Level 1 charging can be done using a standard household outlet, which usually provides 120 volts. This is the slowest method, taking up to 24 hours to fully charge an EV. It can be done at home or at work without needing any extra infrastructure. This method is ideal for those who drive short distances daily and can charge their vehicle frequently or overnight at home. 

• Level 2 charging requires a special outlet, like those used for dryers or large appliances, providing 240 volts. It charges an EV faster than a Level 1 charger, taking 4-10 hours depending on the vehicle. It's suitable for both home and public charging stations, offering a good balance between speed and convenience for daily use. To install a Level 2 charger at home, contact a certified electrician. They’ll check what’s required, including the location and if your home's electrical panel needs an upgrade. Check out SaskPower’s Charging page for more information. 

• Level 3 (Fast and super-fast charging - also known as DC fast charging). Fast chargers use high-voltage direct current (DC) to charge an EV quickly. These chargers are usually found at public stations and range from 50kW to 300kW. Depending on the charger size and the vehicle, a fast charger can charge an EV to 80% in 15-60 minutes. This option is ideal for longer trips or when you need a quick charge, providing a significant range boost in a short time. There are many Level 3 chargers located throughout the province.

Use PlugShare’s EV Charging Station Map to view charging stations near you. 

Check out NRCan’s Simply Science ZEV video series to learn more about charging a ZEV, typical home charging stations, and the different options available to consumers. Charging Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEV Series – Part 2) 

Public Charging

There are many apps to help drivers find charging stations in Saskatchewan. Transport Canada also has a comprehensive map to help you get to your destination. 

These applications and charging network providers can be used to locate charging stations: 

• ChargeHub 

• ChargePoint 

• EV Connect 

• Electrify Canada 

• Flo 

• PlugShare

• Tesla 

Charger Compatibility

Level 1 and 2 connectors 

Most EV chargers and vehicles use a standard connector called the SAE J1772. Any vehicle with this connector can use any Level 1 or Level 2 EV charger in Canada and the United States. All major manufacturers support this standard. 

Tesla vehicles utilize a specific charging connector that differs from the standard plugs used at most stations. Most stations typically feature J1772 plugs, which are commonly used by various electric vehicles in Canada and the United States. However, Tesla owners have the flexibility to utilize adapters, such as the J1772-to-Tesla adapter, to enable Level 2 public charging at most other stations.

Level 3/DC Fast-Charging Connectors 

Your EV might have one of three types of fast charger connectors, but they are not interchangeable. Make sure you know your vehicle's DC fast charger (DCFC) connector type before using a Level 3 station.

For more information on charging levels and connectors, visit Natural Resources Canada website.

Charging Etiquette

To create a happy public charging experience for all, follow basic charging etiquette:  

• Leave EV spots for EVs only. Don't park in spots meant for EVs if you drive a gas or diesel car (ICE), even if the parking lot is crowded. EV drivers need these stations to reach their next destination. 

• Charge only when necessary. Unless you need a charge to reach your destination, please leave the spot free for other EV drivers who may need the charge.  

• Only park in charging spots while your EV is charging. Once you have enough range to get to your next destination, unplug and move your car. 

• Leave your contact info and other pertinent information on a note on your dashboard so other EV drivers can reach you if they urgently need a charge, and to indicate whether it’s OK to unplug your vehicle before it’s fully charged. 

• Check in on the charging app to let others know the charger is in use. Adding feedback for other users is also helpful. 

• Never unplug someone else's EV unless it’s clearly done charging, or you have the owner's permission. If you unplug a fully charged car, leave your name, phone number, and a note explaining why. 

• Don’t leave nasty notes. If the charging station you need is occupied by a non-electric vehicle (ICE) or an EV that isn't plugged in, leave a polite note explaining why you and other EV drivers need these stations.

Home Charging

Consult SaskPower’s website for information on different levels of charging, as well as how to install a Level 2 charger at home.