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Electric Vehicles

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Electric Vehicles

As a part of our Comprehensive Plan’s Environmental Survey, the City of Hickory Hills is preparing for the expected increase in electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging stations by participating in the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’ EV Readiness Program. We are reducing barriers to EV infrastructure investment and making it easier for residents and businesses to install EV charging stations. Hickory Hills has also pulled together information from many sources to help you learn about EVs and EV charging stations, decide if they are right for you, and move through the EV charger permitting and installation process.

About Electric Vehicles

All-electric vehicles (EVs) run on electricity only. They are propelled by one or more electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs.
Benefits of EVs

EVs have several advantages over conventional vehicles:

  • Energy efficient. EVs convert over 77% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels. Conventional gasoline vehicles only convert about 12%–30% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels.
  • Lower emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions caused by on-road transportation account for 25% of total emissions. EVs do not emit tailpipe emissions, which makes them a cleaner option to operate compared to gasoline or diesel vehicles, especially if charged with renewable energy.
  • Improved air quality. Lower emissions lead to better local air quality.
  • Performance benefits. Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration.
  • Reduced maintenance costs. EVs have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes, tune-ups, cooling system flushes, and other common maintenance services needed for traditional vehicles.
  • Reduced energy dependence. Electricity is a domestic energy source.

How Do EVs Work?

Thinking about Buying or Leasing an EV?

Drivers are increasingly transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs). To learn more about EVs and if switching to electric is right for you, use these helpful resources:

Rebates and Incentives

  • Federal Tax Credit for Vehicles: Use the federal government’s federal tax credit tool to learn about the credit amount available for various EV makes and models. The maximum credit is $7,500 for new vehicles and up to $4,000 for used vehicles.
  • New and Used Clean Vehicle Tax Credits, Energy Saver webpage– This Department of Energy webpage describes the new and previously owned clean vehicle tax credits. The page includes a checklist to determine if a vehicle is eligible for either credit. You may also want to contact a tax professional.
  • Illinois EV Rebate Program: A rebate application cycle is not currently open. When funding is available, residents may apply for a $4,000 rebate on a new or used all-electric vehicle. Purchasers must apply for the rebate during an open rebate cycle and within 90 days of vehicle purchase.
  • Federal Tax Credit for EV Charging Equipment– Residents who purchase qualified residential charging equipment may receive a tax credit of 30% of the cost, up to $1,000. Find out more at the above website, or consult a tax professional.
  • Electric Vehicles Rebate Program – Deadline January 31, 2024

For other updates on incentives, please visit:

Public EV Charging

Publicly available charging stations can easily be located using PlugShare’s interactive map, by downloading the free PlugShare app, or by using the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center Alternative Fueling Station Locator.

Parking Regulations at EV Charging Stations

A person may park only an electric vehicle in an electric vehicle charging station space designated for use by electric vehicles. Unauthorized use of EV-only parking by non-EVs at both public and private properties is prohibited.
Illinois Vehicle Code (ILCS 625 ILCS 5/11-1308)

Installing EV Charging Stations

The City of Hickory Hills is available to assist applicants who wish to install EV charging stations.

Installing EV Chargers

The City of Hickory Hills residents and business owners are welcome to install EV charging stations at their property, however a permit is required.

For more information on the permitting process to install an EV charging station, please call 708-237-4140.

Additional EV Charger Resources

Review Process Timeline

The City of Hickory Hills is committed to providing a timely review of solar EV Charger permit applications. Best efforts are made to review completed EV Charger permit applications within ten (10) business days. Complete EV Charger inspections will generally be complete within (5) business days after the installation request. These turnaround times are typical, not guaranteed since unforeseen delays may influence turnaround time.

Certain circumstances can prolong the permit turnaround time including:

  • Application does not submit all required information
  • Contractor applying for permit is not a licensed contractor

For EV Owners

EV Safety Information

Other EV Resources