The Kia e-Niro is one of the most popular electric vehicles on the market today. With its long range and affordable price point, it’s a great option for both daily commuting and road trips. However, when traveling long distances in an electric vehicle,access to fast, reliable charging is essential. Choosing the best EV hotel chargers for your Kia e-Niro will ensure you can keep your car powered up on the go. In this article, we’ll go over the key factors to consider when selecting hotel EV chargers and recommend some of the top options currently available.
Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating hotel EV chargers for your Kia e-Niro, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Charger Power Output – The e-Niro supports both Level 2 AC charging up to 7.2kW and DC fast charging up to 50kW. Hotels should ideally offer chargers with power outputs that match these specs so you can charge at the maximum rate.
Charger Connector Type – The e-Niro comes equipped with a CCS/SAE Combo plug for DC fast charging and a Type 2 connector for Level 2 AC charging. Make sure any hotel chargers also have these connector types.
Number of Charging Stations – More charging stations means less likelihood you’ll have to wait to charge your EV, so prioritize hotels with multiple chargers available.
Charging Speed – Given travel inherently involves spending time on the road, faster chargers will minimize the time needed to recharge at a hotel. Seek out 50kW+ DC fast charging when possible.
Charging Network – Choose hotels that are part of large charging networks like ChargePoint, EVgo, and Electrify America. This gives you access to more charging stations.
Charging Rates – Confirm what a hotel charges to use their EV charging stations. Some offer complimentary charging while others charge hourly or session rates.
Top Hotel EV Chargers for the Kia e-Niro
With the key factors above in mind, here are some of the best EV charging options currently available at hotels across the US for Kia e-Niro drivers:
ChargePoint Chargers
One of the largest charging networks, ChargePoint has installed DC fast chargers at major hotel chains like Marriott and Hyatt. Many locations have multiple 50-150kW chargers to minimize wait times. The ChargePoint app makes it easy to locate stations and pay for charging sessions.
Tesla Destination Chargers
While designed for Tesla vehicles, Kia e-Niro owners can use Tesla’s widespread Destination Charging network with the purchase of a low-cost CHAdeMO adapter. These 72kW DC fast chargers are found at hotels like Best Western and Holiday Inn Express.
Electrify America Chargers
Electrify America is rapidly expanding its network, often with multiple 150-350kW DC fast chargers at hotels. Their stations can provide approximately 20 miles of range per minute of charging to the e-Niro. Compatible hotels include Hilton and Marriott brands.
EVgo Chargers
EVgo focuses heavily on DC fast charging, with 50-350kW stations available atSelect DoubleTree, Hilton Garden Inn, and Hyatt Place locations. Their charging map makes it easy to locate stations along your route.
Volta Chargers
Volta has installed free Level 2 chargers at boutique hotels and resorts across the country. While charging is slower, it’s an affordable option. Participating brands include Joie de Vivre and Pendry Hotels.
Tips for Using Hotel EV Chargers
Once you’ve selected a hotel with suitable EV charging, keep these tips in mind to ensure an easy, smooth charging experience:
Confirm charger availability in advance and make charging part of your reservation request whenever possible.- Arrive with lower state-of-charge so you can take advantage of the full charging capacity.
- Park as close to the charger as possible and review station instructions before plugging in.
- Bring adapters like a J1772-CCS adapter to access more charging stations.
- Ask the front desk if there are any access codes or fees required for charging.
- Be courteous and move your vehicle once charging is complete.
- Provide feedback to the hotel on your charging experience to improve their EV amenities.
With the rising popularity of EVs like the Kia e-Niro, more hotels are installing on-site charging capabilities. Following the tips above and looking for hotels equipped with high-powered DC fast charging will keep you powered up and enjoying your road trip adventures. What EV charging networks or hotel brands have you had the best experiences with during your travels?