With the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), more drivers are looking for convenient charging options when traveling. Hotels have begun installing EV charging stations to accommodate these guests, but not all chargers are created equal. When driving the Ford Mustang Mach-e, an all-electric SUV with up to 300 miles of range, you’ll want to find hotel chargers that can fully recharge the large battery pack overnight. Here’s a look at the best EV hotel chargers for Mustang Mach-e owners.
Level 2 Chargers
Most hotels offer Level 2 charging stations, which provide around 25 miles of range per hour of charging. This level of power is suitable for smaller EVs with less than 100 miles of range. However, for the Mustang Mach-e with its large battery, a Level 2 charger may not provide a full charge overnight.
Look for hotels that offer higher powered Level 2 chargers that provide 30-80 amps and up to 44 miles of range per hour. With a 50 amp charger, you could potentially get a full charge after staying overnight. The Mustang Mach-e comes standard with a 48-amp onboard charger, so it can take full advantage of high-powered Level 2 charging. Brands like ChargePoint, EVConnect, and Tesla offer hotel charging stations with power levels in this optimal range.
DC Fast Chargers
The fastest charging option currently available is DC fast charging, which can add up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. While not yet common, some hotels are starting to install DC fast chargers with power levels from 50kW to 350kW.
For Mustang Mach-e owners who want the fastest possible charging, hotels with 150kW or 350kW DC fast chargers are ideal. You could potentially add over 180 miles of range while having dinner at the hotel restaurant. The Mach-e’s battery can charge at rates up to 150kW, taking advantage of high-powered DC fast charging.
Chargepoint, EVgo, Electrify America, Tesla Superchargers, and other networks operate DC fast charging stations at some hotels. Look for hotels along major highway routes that are aiming to attract EV travelers.
Charging Rates and Payment
When selecting a hotel EV charger, look at both the power level and the pricing structure. Many hotels offer free Level 2 charging as an amenity. Others charge by the hour or session. DC fast chargers often have per-minute billing at rates from $0.30-$0.79 per minute.
Compare the charging rate to the rate you’d pay to charge at home. For example, a 50kW DC fast charger at $0.40 per minute would equate to $24 per hour—likely more expensive than home charging. For overnight charging, Level 2 stations are typically more affordable. Apps like PlugShare and ChargeHub can help you locate hotels with chargers and compare pricing.
Hotel Charging Apps and Maps
To easily find hotels with EV chargers along your route, use apps and maps tailored for EV drivers. Apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, Chargeway, and more allow you to filter and search for hotels with chargers near you or along a planned trip. Built-in maps help you locate hotels conveniently along your drive.
You can filter hotel listings to show only those with available EV chargers. Or search for specific amenities like Tesla destination chargers, Electrify America DC fast chargers, free charging, etc. Apps will provide details on the charger type, power level, quantity of chargers, pricing info, and real-time availability.
Top EV-Friendly Hotel Chains
Certain hotel chains are leading the push to install EV charging stations at their properties. Tesla is accelerating its Tesla Destination Charger program, partnering with hotels to install Level 2 chargers for Tesla drivers. These are now available at some Hyatt, Radisson, and Best Western hotels.
Many Hilton, Marriott, and IHG properties also offer charging through networks like ChargePoint and EVgo. Upscale chains like InterContinental, Ritz-Carlton, Westin, and Four Seasons also offer charging amenities catering to luxury EV travelers. Boutique chains like Provenance Hotels and PHP Properties place chargers at select locations.
Use hotel chain apps or websites to search for locations with chargers. Chains like IHG and Marriott now have EV charging filters to simplify finding hotels with charging stations. As demand rises, more hotel brands recognize the need to accommodate EV drivers.
Questions to Ask Hotels About EV Charging
When booking your hotel, ask about the specifics of their EV charging amenities using these key questions:
- What type of EV charger do you offer – Level 2 or DC fast charging?
- How many chargers are available at the hotel?
- What is the maximum power output (for Level 2) or charging speed (for DC fast)?
- Is the EV charging free for hotel guests, or is there a fee? What is the rate structure?
- Can I reserve a charging space when booking my room?
- Are the chargers located in a secure, well-lit area close to my guest room?
- Do all of the chargers have the SAE J1772 standard connector?
- Is your charging network listed on apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub?
By getting details directly from the hotel, you can determine if their chargers are optimal for the Mustang Mach-e’s needs. Also consider asking about plans to add more/faster chargers to meet growing guest demand.
Choosing the Right EV Hotel Charger
With its extended range and fast charging capability, the Ford Mustang Mach-e opens up long distance electric road trips. But carefully selecting hotels with compatible EV chargers is key to a smooth journey. Look for future-forward hotels offering high-powered Level 2 or DC fast charging tailored to the Mustang Mach-e. As more EVs hit the road, hotels will continue expanding charging services to drive repeat business from EV owners. With the proper hotel charger, Mustang Mach-e drivers can confidently go the distance.