The influx of EVs on the road – while a great shift to cleaner energy sources – has created the need for more EV charging stations. Thankfully, these are now available in most cities and towns worldwide! No more worrying about running out of juice on your next road trip. No more having to find a way back home if you forget to charge your car overnight. You can keep the wheels of your electric car turning, it’s usually faster than traditional gas refills, and almost always more economical.
EV Charging: How Long Does It Take?
The time it takes for a full charge depends on the type of station used. It also depends on the relevant battery capacity.
Level 1 EV charging stations
These are the most basic, providing a trickle charge via a standard 120V wall outlet. They typically taking 24 hours to fully charge.
Level 2 charging stations
These use 240V outlets, like those of a washer or dryer, and can reduce the time it takes to fully charge considerably. The level 2 charging station can fully charge an EV in 4-8 hours.
Level 3 charging stations
These are called DC fast charging stations and use a 480-volt outlet that can charge an EV in just 30 minutes.
While it still takes time to fully charge, you can rest assured that you won’t have to wait 24 hours when using a level 2 or 3 charging station. With the range of options available, you can rest assured that your EV will be ready to go when needed.
It is important to consider the charging time of an electric vehicle (EV) when deciding on a model. Most vehicles come with a level 2 charger that can be used at home. This allows owners to charge their vehicles overnight and wake up with a fully charged battery. However, the battery size in each EV model also affects charging time. Generally, smaller batteries charge more quickly than larger ones, allowing owners to get back on the road more quickly.
The option of fast charging is also available in certain EV models. This allows drivers to charge their battery to 80% capacity in less than an hour at a designated station or high-power charger. This is an ideal solution if you need to get back on the road quickly and are short of time.
At the end of the day, EV charging is an important factor to consider when choosing your EV model. With various levels of EV charging available, you can find one that works for your needs and lifestyle.