EV Charging Basics

Are you ready to convert to an electric vehicle (EV) but have questions about the charging process or how long you can drive before charging again? How about home versus public charging, what are the benefits of each? Or which chargers are the fastest? And how do amps make a difference? We get it, buying any car is a major investment that requires time and research to ensure you purchase the right thing.

With this simple guide to EV charging basics, you have a head start with regard to EV charging and what you should know. Read the following, and soon you’ll be ready to hit the local dealership to look at the new models.

What Are the Three Types of EV Charging?

The three types of EV charging stations are Levels 1, 2 and 3. Each level relates to the time it takes to charge an EV or plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV). Level 1, the slowest of the three, requires a charging plug that connects to a 120v outlet (sometimes it’s called a 110v outlet — more on this later). Level 2 is up to 8x faster than Level 1, and requires a 240v outlet. The fastest of the three, Level 3, are the fastest charging stations, and they are found in public charging areas since they are expensive to install and typically you pay to charge. As national infrastructure is added to accommodate EVs, these are the types of chargers that you will see along highways, rest stations and eventually will take the role of gas stations.

For most EV owners, Level 2 home charging stations are most popular since they blend convenience and affordability with faster, more reliable charging. Many EVs can be charged from empty to full in 3 to 8 hours using a Level 2 charging station. However, there are a handful of newer models which have much larger battery sizes that take longer to charge. Charging while you sleep is the most common way, and most utility rates are also less expensive during overnight hours saving you even more money. To see how long it takes to power up a specific EV make and model, check out the EV Charge Charging Time tool.

11KW Wall Mounted AC Electric Vehicle Charger Wallbox Type 2 Cable EV Home Use EV Charger