Types of EV Charging

Recharging an EV is similar to filling up with gas, and you will insert your charging connector like a gas nozzle. You will start by removing the charging station connector from the dock and inserting it into the car's charge port. The touchscreen will inform you of the charge percentage and estimated time remaining. When complete, you will push the connector button to stop charging, remove the cable and return to the charging station.

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt household outlet. Every EV or PHEV comes with and can be charged with a Level 1 charging unit. You plug your connector into a regular wall outlet. However, Level 1 Charging is the slowest way to charge your EV. It adds between 3 and 5 miles of range per hour. This charging level is suitable for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles as their batteries are smaller.

Level 2 charging is the most commonly used level for public charging. Level 2 charging equipment can be installed at your home or workplace by an electrician. Level 2 chargers can deliver up to 80 amps of power. But that requires a 100-amp 208-240V dedicated circuit, like the outlet you have for your dryer. Level 2 charging units typically replenish between 12 and 80 miles of range per hour, depending on the unit's power output and the vehicle's maximum charge rate. Most BEV owners choose to install Level 2 charging equipment in their homes because it charges the car up to 10 times faster than Level 1 charging. Generally, when you charge with a Level 2 unit, your vehicle will be completely charged overnight, even if plugged with a nearly empty battery.

DC Fast Chargers are the quickest chargers currently available and will recharge an EV at about 3 to 20 miles of range per minute. These chargers require a direct current which is much higher than Levels 1 and 2's AC. Unfortunately, residents cannot access this level of high-voltage charging, so you will only find Level 3 charging units at public charging stations.

If you have any questions about how EVs work or would like to take one for a test drive, please call one of the knowledgeable sales members at Gillman CDJR. We pride ourselves on being your trustworthy dealer. From sales to financing to service and parts, we are committed to long-lasting relationships with every one of our customers. Visit us today!