Greentech Lead America: AeroVironment has launched a dealer program that provides turnkey residential charging packages to consumers purchasing new electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).
The new program also allows dealers to finance the charger in combination with the vehicle at the time of sale.
The program, which is the first of its kind, makes dealerships one-stop-shops for EV drivers and expands dealers’ F&I product offerings.
EVs and PHEVs typically come equipped with a Level 1 120 Volt charger. Through AeroVironment’s dealer program, new owners can now purchase an EVSE-RS Level 2 240 Volt residential charging station that reduces charge time by more than half, from up to 22 hours to between 3 and 8 hours.
Wahid Nawabi, AeroVironment senior vice president and general manager of its Efficient Energy Systems business segment, said, “With our new dealer program, AeroVironment is putting the second half of the EV equation – the home charger – at the vehicle’s point of sale. This makes it easier for drivers to purchase, and for dealers to participate more actively in the evolution toward clean, electric transportation.”
Dealers can offer various warranty options that match the financing terms of the vehicle. Chargers bought through the dealer program are installed by a licensed electrician certified in EV charging installation. If needed, AeroVironment also provides at-home, in-person support.
As part of the program, AeroVironment provides dealers with one-on-one and online training and point-of-purchase marketing support including home charging displays, window stickers and consumer brochures. The company also offers both Level 2 and DC “fast” charging stations for use in dealer service bays and customer parking areas.
AeroVironment is the preferred home charging supplier of the Nissan LEAF, BMW ActiveE, and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. The company’s broad line of home charging systems includes the standard Level 2 home charging system and a do-it-yourself wall-mounted “plug-in” unit that is available for dealer stock.