AeroVironment’s turnkey package includes its EVSE-RS Level 2 240 Volt residential charging station, along with installation by a licensed electrician.

Some EV observers believe that Level 1 charging should be adequate for most drivers’ needs. However, most buyers seem to want the security and convenience of a faster Level 2 charger, and the $1,500-2,000 cost of a unit is one of the items they’ll be putting on the “against” side of the list when considering a plug-in purchase.

With an eye towards overcoming that particular objection, charger manufacturer AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) has launched a dealer program that lets buyers of EVs and PHEVs finance a charger together with a vehicle. AeroVironment’s turnkey package includes its EVSE-RS Level 2 240 Volt residential charging station, along with installation by a licensed electrician. The charger can be covered by a dealer warranty.

“AeroVironment has decades of experience providing complete charging solutions that support the practical transition to electric vehicles,” said AeroVironment Senior VP Wahid Nawabi. “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.”

AeroVironment provides dealers with one-on-one and online training to familiarize them with the new program, as well as point-of-purchase marketing support. The company also offers both Level 2 and DC fast charging stations for use in dealer service bays and customer parking areas.

“AeroVironment offers state-of-the-art products and our customers have been extremely satisfied with the service,” said James Azzaro of John Howard Motors in Morgantown, WV. “The AeroVironment dealer program provides a complete, seamless experience for our customers. Not only does it make us a one-stop-shop, but it also guarantees support for our customers from a company that cares.”