With electric vehicles (EVs) being more and more mainstream, one important aspect of their ownership is knowing how to charge them wisely. An internal combustion engine (ICE) car is usually refueled at a gas station; in contrast, charging an EV with electricity depends on the speed, which in turn varies according to different types of charging equipment.
For the EV newbie (or switcher), you might ask, what are Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging? And more importantly, which charging level would suit your daily driving?
The following guide will detail the three principal charging levels for EVs, including how each works, their charging speed, and their best applications. At the end of it, you’ll gain an understanding of how to optimally keep your EV going.
The Three Levels of EV Charging
The levels of EV charging are classified into three groups:
- Level 1 Charging: Generally are the slowest and most basic type-charging at home with a standard outlet.
- Level 2 Charging: A faster way of charging, usually through a dedicated 240-volt circuit, found mostly at home, office, or in public charging stations.
- DC Fast Charging ( Level 3 Charging): The fastest level of charging available mostly at highway rest areas and commercial locations.
Every level has its pros and cons with charging speed, cost, and convenience. Now, let’s analyze these levels one by one.
The Most Basic Electric Vehicle Charging Level: Level 1
How It Works
Charging at Level 1 is done via a standard 120 volt AC household outlet, the same type of plug used for everyday appliances like a television or laptop. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charging cable to plug directly into any outlet without special installation.
Charging Speed
Level 1 charging provides the slowest of the three charging types. It adds an average of between 2 to 5 miles of range every hour of charging. In the case of a vehicle with a large battery, full charge can take anywhere from a time period of about 20 to 40 hours+ depending on the size of the battery and its starting charge level.
This is suitable for:
- Drivers with short commutes having a travel distance of less than 40 miles per day.
- Such people have access to overnight charging and don’t need much time for a recharge.
- Those who don’t want the hassle of a dedicated home charger and are just fine with using a standard outlet.
The Possible Advantages of Level 1 Charging
✔ No additional equipment or installation needed.
✔ Can be used anywhere that has a standard outlet.
✔ Ideal for overnight charging.
Drawbacks of Level 1 Charges
✘ Slowest charging speed available.
✘ Not feasible for road trips or long daily commutes.
✘ Not suitable for larger EV battery sizes.
Level 2 Charging in an EV: A Faster and More Practical Alternative
How It Works
A level 2 charging point requires a 240-volt power supply, similar to cooking devices and other large household appliances, such as ovens and dryers. Normally, the electric vehicle owner needs to install his or her separate charging point or a wall-mounted charger in the domestic premises to have level 2 charging at home. Public level 2 charging stations are being installed in workplaces, commercial complexes, and also parking garages.
Speed of Charging
Level 2 charges your electric vehicle much faster than level 1. This varies from adding 10 to 60 miles of range to your vehicle in an hour and can completely charge most electric vehicles in 4 to 10 hours, making level-2 charging an excellent option for at-home overnight charging or during the day at work when needing just a top-up.
Who Should Use Level 2 Charging?
Best for:
- Homeowners looking for faster and more reliable charging.
- Moderate to long-haul drivers.
- Businesses wanting to provide charging access to employees or customers.
- Public places where drivers spend a few hours consuming, such as malls, hotels, or restaurants.
Pros of Level 2 Charging
✔ A great deal faster than Level 1 charging.
✔ Available in the home and in public.
✔ Perfect for everyday EV drivers.
Cons of Level 2 Charging
✘ Requires professional installation in the home.
✘ More expensive than Level 1 charging.
✘ Not even as fast as DC Fast Charging.
For those interested in home or workplace Level 2 charging solutions, ApexCharger provides high-quality, reliable charging stations.
DC Fast Charging (Level 3 Charging): The Fastest Way To Charge
How It Works
DC Fast Charging (or Level 3 charging) is the complete opposite of Level 1 and Level 2 chargers that utilize AC. As such, DC Fast Charging does approximately charge the EV battery. These chargers demand a really powerful electrical infrastructure that are fitted to highway rest stops, commercial locations, and EV charging hubs.
Charging Speed
DC Fast Charging can charge vehicles between 100 and 250+ miles in about 30 minutes. Depending on the charge output of the charger and the battery capacity of the vehicle, an average EV needs about 20 to 45 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
DC fast charging is suitable for:
- Long-distance travelers hanging for a quick charge somewhere along the road.
- Rideshare or fleet drivers who need to charge their vehicles rapidly and become available repeatedly.
- Urban EV owners without home charging who need quick fill-ups.
DC Fast Charging Advantages
✔ The fastest EV charging method available.
✔ Suitable for long trips and heavy use.
✔ Greatly reduces range anxiety.
DC Fast Charging Disadvantages
✘ Costs more than Level 1 and Level 2 charging.
✘ Not meant for home charging.
✘ Most frequent fast charging puts strain on battery life.
For users who need to fast-charge their EVs safely, ApexCharger gives excellent solutions.
Which Level of EV Charging Works for You?
Selecting the best charging level is dependent on your driving habits, budget, and proximity to the charging stations.
- Level 1 is for those rare users who do not mind the slow charging.
- Level 2 is good for most electric vehicle owners balancing speed and price.
- DC fast charging is for those traveling long distances, who need a quick refuel.
Installing a Level 2 charger at home is the best investment an EV owner can make if he/she has a garage or a driveway. It assures that the car is charged fully by morning, without public charging station hassles.
For those who are dependent on public infrastructure, finding out where to fast charge will make owning an EV convenient and worry-free. ApexCharger has high-quality EV chargers that will set up charging at home and in public places like never before.
The Future of EV Charging
With the increase in EV charging infrastructure, owning an electric vehicle has never been more feasible. This also means that even faster and more efficient charging solutions will be around real soon, which will further decrease charge time and enhance convenience.
By understanding the different levels of EV charging, you help yourself to take the better decision for home installations, road trips, and general EV convenience. Whether you are new to EV ownership or experienced and looking for ways to optimize your charging schedule, being able to differentiate between Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging will get you the best out of your EV.
Find high-quality EV chargers at ApexCharger and discover the perfect solution to your charging needs.
