Generally, people thinking of switching to electric vehicles have many doubts regarding them, especially about the complex terminology associated with them. The charging level is one of the prime concerns for potential users. There are three charging levels when it comes to EV charging. Ease of charging is one of the major perks of electric vehicles.
Here in this article, we will know detailed information on the three levels of charging. However, before that, let us know a little more about the charging level terminology.
A Brief About The Charging Level
One of the most crucial variables that impact the charging time for an EV is its charging source, which is also referred to as charging speed or charging level. SAE International has introduced and established three EV charging levels, namely, Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast Charging (Level 3). You can use the charging stations map service to check all the stations in your current area and pick the one that is suitable for your car.
Now, let us get into the details of all these levels so you have a better understanding of them.
EV Charging Levels
1. Level 1 AC
The most common source to charge anything, including an EV, is a standard 15-Amp 120 Volt outlet that is available in all households. This is the Level 1 charging level for EVs. However, it takes a long time for the power source to charge the EV, especially the long-range one. You can consider some days to charge your long-range EV to its full capacity.
The level works properly for PHEVs (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles). However, if your goal is to charge the EV to its full capacity, then Level 1 charging is not a practical approach. Nevertheless, you can add some moles to your vehicle through it.
2. Level 2 AC
Generally, EV owners rely on the Level 2 AC charging level to charge their vehicles. The level incorporates a 240 Volt charging outlet to provide a sufficient amount of energy to charge the long-range EV in some hours. You can easily add up to 20 to 40 miles to your EV in a single hour through a Level 2 charging outlet.
Most of the public stations offer Level 2 charging outlets to charge the EV. It is beneficial to connect your EV to this outlet when you are working in the office or visiting a restaurant for a full meal.
3. DC Fast Charging (Level 3)
DC fast charging is the fastest way to charge your EV. Tesla Supercharger is also a type of DC fast charging. Commonly, people refer to this level as Level 3 charging. In contrast to the Level 1 and 2 charging levels which use AC (Alternating Current), this level uses DC (Direct Current) to charge the EVs.
The charging outlet lets you charge your EV to 80% in a time frame of 20 to 40 minutes. You can get a quick refill on your miles, especially if you are out on a road trip with your friends.
Final Thoughts
Here are the different charging levels of an EV. You can go through them and expand your knowledge base. By knowing all the levels, you can pin down the correct station for your EV and quickly refill your files according to your needs. It is best to opt for DC fast charging when you are out with family for some long trips.
Salman is a prolific environmental writer, and has authored more than 500 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management, sustainability and conservation all over the world.
Salman can be reached on salman@cleantechloops.com
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