Levels of Charging
Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers are classified according to the speed with which they recharge an EVs battery. There are three main levels of charging and EV:
Charging at Level 1 means plugging in with a cord set which uses a standard 120-volt outlet. You may see these at w+D5:D13orkplaces or in public, too. This provides 2-5 miles D5:D13of range per 1 hour of charging (120V/1.6 kW).
Pros: It's the low cost option that may provide a full charge overnight for drivers with an average commute to work. No professional installations or upgrades required.
Cons: Most BEVs will require longer than a night of charging if their battery is completely drained.
Level 2 charging stations can be used residentially and commercially. This level requires a charging station with a J1772 connector connected to a 240-volt circuit. 10 to 25 miles of range per 1 hour of charging (240V/3.3 kW to 19.2 kW)
Pros: Faster charging than Level 1. It takes about 2-4 hours for a full charge with a rate of up to 25 miles per hour.
Cons: Level 2 requires professional installation of a 240V circuit. This may require an upgrade your existing electrical panel.
Level 3 (DC fast charging) is typically available at commercial premises and publicly accessible parking lots. Heavy-duty EVs (ex: electric buses) require DCs. DCs provide an estimated 80% battery charge in 30 minutes or less to light-duty EVs(ex: Tesla). Provides 60-80 miles of range in a 20 minute charge (480V/50kW or more).
Pros: DC is ideal to charge quickly while on the go or for longer road trips since it's the fastest charging option available.
Cons: DC fast charging is not compatible with every EV port. Level 3 has higher deployment and electricity costs than Level 2 charging.
Where to Charge
