EV Charger Types: Plugs and Speeds Explained
A growing number of people are considering electric vehicles as their primary mode of transportation, and with good reason. Electric vehicles (EVs) are eco-friendly, provide a smooth and quiet ride, and are exceptionally efficient. However, one of the challenges of owning an EV is finding the right charger. EV chargers come in different shapes, sizes, and speed levels. This article explores the different types of EV chargers, their plugs, and speeds.
Types of EV Chargers
There are three primary types of EV chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (or DC fast charger).
Level 1 chargers: These are the slowest chargers and are often built into EVs. They require a standard 120-volt household outlet and can take several hours to fully charge an EV battery. Level 1 chargers are useful if you have access to an outlet near where you park your EV, such as in a garage.
Level 2 chargers: These chargers are more powerful than Level 1 chargers and can be used at home or any public charging station. They require a 240-volt outlet like those used for clothes dryers or electric ranges. Level 2 charging stations can fully charge an EV in 4-8 hours, depending on the EV battery size and the charging speed.
Level 3 chargers: These chargers are also called DC fast chargers and are the fastest chargers available. They are typically found at public charging stations and can charge an EV battery up to 80% in about 30 minutes, depending on the EV model.
EV Charger Plugs
There are three types of EV charger plugs: Level 1 and Level 2 use the same plugs, while the DC fast charger uses a different plug.
Level 1 and Level 2 plugs: There are two types of plugs commonly used for Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations: the J1772 and the NEMA 14-50 plug. The J1772 plug is used by most electric vehicles sold in the US, while the NEMA 14-50 is commonly used for RV charging but can also be used for Level 2 EV charging. The J1772 plug requires a matching charging station, while the NEMA 14-50 can be used with a portable EV charger.
DC fast charger plugs: DC fast chargers use a CHAdeMO or CCS plug. The CHAdeMO plug is typically used by Japanese automakers such as Nissan, while the CCS plug is preferred by American and European automakers. Some EVs have both plugs to be compatible with all charging stations.
EV Charger Speeds
EV charger speeds are measured in kilowatts (kW) and vary depending on the charging station type and the EV battery size.
Level 1 chargers: Typically, Level 1 chargers provide 1-1.4 kW charging speed, and can fully charge a small EV battery overnight.
Level 2 chargers: Depending on the EV and the charging station, Level 2 chargers can provide charging speeds of 3.6 kW to 19.2 kW. The higher the kW, the faster the charging speed. A Level 2 charger with a 6.6 kW speed can charge a 240-mile range EV in about 6 hours.
Level 3 chargers: DC fast chargers are the fastest chargers and can provide 50 kW to 350 kW charging speeds. The higher the kW, the faster the charging speed. A DC fast charger with 150 kW speed can charge an EV battery up to 80% in about 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right EV charger type, plug, and speed depends on your EV model, battery size, and location. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are great for home charging, while public charging stations provide faster charging speeds using DC fast chargers. Knowing the different types of EV charger plugs and charging speeds will help you choose the right charging station for your needs.
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