Portable EV rescue charger compared with van-based convenience charging equipment

Rescue Charging vs. Convenience Charging

These are two very different jobs. Rescue charging gets stranded EV drivers back on the road when they are low or out of charge. Convenience charging is planned charging that drivers use when they already have time, at home, at work, or at events.

Rescue Charging

Get them moving again

For stranded or very low-range EVs
Typically delivers less than 20 miles of range
On-site, anywhere the vehicle is located
Like bringing a 1/2 gal of gas
Ideal for tow operators, roadside assistance fleets, and mobile service providers
Avoids the need for a tow

Convenience Charging

Allows driver to avoid the charging station themselves

Planned charging, not emergency charging
Common for home, work, events, and fleets
Adds significant range, typically near a full 100% charge
Driver is usually parked for a longer period, typically more than an hour
Typically uses mobile DC fast chargers

Primary useRescue: Stranded or low-range EVsConvenience: Planned charging

Typical range addedRescue: Typically under 20 milesConvenience: Typically near a full 100% charge

Time on siteRescue: Typically 20–30 minutesConvenience: Typically more than an hour

EquipmentRescue: EVroadHERO mobile charging unitConvenience: Mobile DC fast charger costing $20K+

Business useRescue: Emergency / roadside serviceConvenience: Home, workplace, event, and fleet charging

PricingRescue: Higher — around the cost of a towConvenience: Lower — probably much lower per kWh

Can a rescue charger do this job?Rescue: Yes — this is its intended useConvenience: No — a rescue charger is not designed for convenience charging