If you are planning to buy an electric vehicle, finding the right charging solutions is crucial. Notably, higher-level chargers are chosen for more efficient and faster when required. Let us delve deeper into the blog to learn about the different types of EV chargers and charging stations to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Types of EV Chargers and Charging Stations
Generally, there are 3 types of EV charging available at the stations.
- Level 1 – Slow Charging
- Level 2 – Fast Charging
- Level 3 – Rapid Charging
Various chargers are designed for different levels to meet EV owners’ diverse needs. The charging process has two main types:
- Alternating Current (AC) – It includes slow and fast charging. It is time-consuming and is managed by the on-board charger.
- Direct current (DC) – It is known for its rapid charging capabilities, as it it converts the energy at the charging station itself.
Also See: Can You Use DC Fast Charger at Home for EV?
Level 1 Charger
Also known as slow charger they help electric vehicle owners to charge their vehicles at home. They are available in 120 volts power. Level 1 EV charging is ideal for users who travel less frequently and prefer overnight charging.
1. Convenient for Home: They are a convenient option if you prioritize home charging. Not practical for frequent home as a trickle charger use without Level 2 or 3 charging stations.
2. Power Output: With a 120 volt car charger, it requires 8-12 hours to fully recharge through a standard AC outlet, making them suitable for overnight charging.
3. Connectors Compatibility and Features: They are compatible with all 4 types of AC connectors and provide options for tethered or untethered cables, with a focus on home charging.
4. Specifications for North America: It uses a standard 3-prong household plug and J1772 (Type 1) EV connector. It is compatible with common 120-volt residential electricity. Europe’s 230V standard electricity doesn’t support this charging level.
5. Vehicle Compatibility: It is versatile and frequently included with new electric vehicles and are suitable for all BEVs and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs).
6. Caution: To avoid the risk of overheating and equipment failure, it is better not to use an extension cord with Level 1 chargers. Prioritizing safe charging practices is crucial.
Level 2 Charger
Also known as fast chargers, they play an important role in the increasing electric vehicle (EV) facilities by efficiently charging vehicles. Among all types of EV charger, Type-2 are commonly available in public places and can conveniently charge most electric vehicles.
1. Compatibility: Level 2 car charger chargers are compatible with almost all EVs, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
2. Charging Speeds: Provides speeds ranging from 3 kW to 22 kW to accommodate various EV models. Offers diverse charging capacities like 7 kW, 22 kW, and 11 kW, and charging times ranging from 2 to 13 hours.
3. Notable Features: They have tethered or untethered cable options, RFID cards, load balancing, along with OCCP networking.
4. Power Infrastructure: Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1, using 208-240V AC outlets and reaching a maximum of 19.2 kW in North America and 22 kW in Europe.
5. Connectors Compatibility: These charging stations use J1772 (Type 1) connectors in North America and Japan. Moreover, in Europe they use IEC 62196 Type 2 connectors, popularly known as Mennekes connectors.
6. Range Extender: Level 2 electric car charger operates at 240 volts, making it 3–4 times faster than Level 1, effectively increasing an EV’s range using a range extender.
Also See: A New Test Reveals Electric Cars are Practically Unusable in Winter – How and Why
Level 3 Car Charger
Also called DC fast charging or rapid charging, they significantly enhance the speed of charging EVs. Their quick current conversion technology makes them the fastest among all. Their notable features are mentioned below:
1. Fast and Smart Charging: They can charge an EV up to 80% in about 20 minutes. However, charging slows near 80% capacity to prevent overheating or overcharging. They efficiently add approximately 100–250 miles of range in just 30–45 minutes, making them highly efficient for on-the-road charging.
2. Power Capacity: They are available in both single and dual-gun configurations for simultaneous recharging. Depending on the electric vehicle’s capacity, they can deliver charging speeds ranging from 30 kW to around 360 kW. They feature tethered cables, 50 kW rapid charging, and 100 kW ultra-rapid charging.
3. Infrastructure and Connectivity: Level 3 charging stations utilize 3-phase power supplies, delivering over 360 kW of power, with voltage variations from 480 volts in North US to 400 volts in Europe.
They incorporate dynamic power distribution, multi-charging protocol cables, and networking capabilities through the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). Both stationary and portable options are available, adding to the versatility of charging infrastructure.
4. Connector Compatibility: They use flexible and compatible connectors such as CCS, CHAdeMO, and Tesla Superchargers.
5. Versatile Applications: Level 3 car chargers are important for long-distance travel, electric vehicle fleets, car dealerships, and other high-use locations. Moreover, you can find them at service stations near highways.
6. Tesla’s Supercharger Network: Earlier only Tesla vehicles had access to the company’s proprietary Level 3 Supercharger network. But now most automakers are able to use Superchargers. However, is Supercharging bad for Tesla battery?
Cross-Reference: Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Ultimately, there are 3 different types of EV charger available to meet diverse needs and preferences. If you are in search of a home charging station, Level 1 is an ideal choice due to its ease and convenience. However, Levels 2 and 3 are more suitable for public places. To access more intriguing topics on EV, stay tuned!
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