EV Charging Level

What Is Level 1, 2, 3 Charging?
If you own a plug-in vehicle or are considering one, you need expose to the terms Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 associated with charging speeds. Honestly, the numbered charging levels aren't perfect. Below we explain what they mean and what they don't. Bear in mind that regardless of the charging method, batteries always charge faster when empty and slower as they fill, and that temperature also affects how quickly a car will charge.

LEVEL 1 CHARGING​​
All electric cars come with a cable that connects to the vehicle's on-board charger and a standard household 120v/220V outlet. One end of the cord has a standard 3-prong household plug. On the other end is a EV connector, which plugs into the vehicle.

It's easy: Take your cord, plug it into the AC outlet and your car. You will start to receive between 3 and 5 miles per hour. Level 1 charging is the least expensive and most convenient charging option, and 120v outlets are readily available. Level 1 works well for drivers and vehicles that travel an average of less than 40 miles a day.

LEVEL 2 CHARGING
Faster charging occurs via a 240v Level 2 system. This is typically for a single-family home utilizing the same type of plug as a clothes dryer or refrigerator.

Level 2 chargers can be up to 80 amp and charging is much faster than Level 1 charging. It provides upwards of 25-30 miles of driving range per hour. That means an 8-hour charge provides 200 miles or more of driving range.

Level 2 chargers are also available in many public places. Generally the fees for Level 2 station charging are set by the station host, and in the course of your travels you may see pricing set at a per-kWh rate or by time, or you may find stations that are free to use in exchange for the advertising they display.

DC FAST CHARGING
DC Fast Charging (DCFC) is available at rest stops, shopping malls, and office buildings. DCFC is ultra-rapid charging with rates of 125 miles of added range in about 30 minutes or 250 miles in about an hour.

The charger is a gas pump-sized machine. Note: Older vehicles may not be able to charge via DC Fast Charging because they lack the necessary connector.