Electric vehicle (EV) charging station networks have grown in recent years, but navigating the different types can get confusing. Here we'll explain types 1, 2, and 3, their connector plugs, and what situations they're best for. Contact online >>
Electric vehicle (EV) charging station networks have grown in recent years, but navigating the different types can get confusing. Here we''ll explain types 1, 2, and 3, their connector plugs, and what situations they''re best for.
Before we dive in, we should review some terms. Charging stations are called by multiple names, all of which mean the same thing, which can add to the confusion about which one to pick. For example, a type 2 station could also be called a "level 2" station. It still has the same power output and means the same thing. Other common terms for charging stations include:
Type 1 chargers are just regular wall outlets, the same thing you''d plug your phone into to charge. As you might expect, it takes a very long time to charge an EV''s battery with a type 1 charger --- about 20 hours for a 120-mile charge.
Type 1 chargers use AC (alternating current) power, and range in output from 1kW to 7.5 kW. They''re also called "single-phase" plugs, and type 1 connectors are standard for EVs made in the U.S. and Japan.
All EVs are sold with a cable adapter that lets them use level 1 chargers (wall outlets) and a separate cable with a J1772 adapter for use with level 2 charging stations. Teslas use their own proprietary plug for their chargers but also come with an adapter, allowing Tesla drivers to use level 2 public charging stations outside the company''s network.
Type 2 chargers also use AC power and allow for increased charging speed due to their increased power output. These chargers deliver around 240 volts of power and can charge an EV battery anywhere from five to seven times faster than a type 1 charger.
Type 2 chargers use a different type of plug to connect than a type 1 charger because they require a connector plug with additional wires to carry the additional power. That plug is called an SAE J1772 connector and is the standard for all EVs produced in North America as of this writing. Many EVs sold today come packaged with some kind of J1772 connector. If they don''t, you can usually buy one online from the manufacturer.
Type 2 chargers can also be installed in-home for faster charging without reliance on a public station. It can be expensive, but drastically reduces the hassle of at-home EV charging. The speed of an at-home type 2 charging station will depend on which charger you get installed and your local power grid, among other factors, but you can still expect the same charge time as a public type 2 charging station.
Type 3 chargers, also known as DC fast charging or DCFC chargers, will get you the quickest juice-up of any charging station out there. They use DC (direct current) energy, and require special plugs to connect that are different from the J1772 standard. There are three types of connector plugs that work with type 3 charging stations as of this writing:
Unless you have a lot of money lying around, you probably won''t be able to install a type 3 charger at home, as they can cost thousands to put in. However, a level 2 home charger is more than enough for almost any EV driver.
All three charging station types can be viable. If you own a plug-in hybrid that has a small battery pack, type 1 charging could be all you need. For all-electric vehicles, type 2 and 3 will be what you use most of if not all the time. For the typical EV owner, including Tesla drivers, level 2 charging stations will be the most plentiful and convenient to use, especially if you can get a level 2 home station installed. Level 3 stations are good for quick top-ups and to recharge on long trips, as they provide the fastest rate.
It''s understandable why 42% of EV owners favour Level 3 fast chargers, as they significantly reduce charging times compared to Level 1 or Level 2 chargers, offering convenience, accessibility, flexibility, range confidence, and technological advancements, which are pivotal in driving electric vehicle adoption.
For Level 3 EV charging, you''ll need access to a Level 3 charger at a public station. You can easily use our EV charging station map to find a Level 3 EV charger near you. While less common due to installation and hardware costs, you can opt for a Level 3 home or work charger.
As shown in the Level 3 EV charging illustrative image above, These chargers typically range from 50 kW to 400 kW in power output, making them suitable for commercial installations due to their high capacity. They utilize a 480V power supply and can add approximately 60-100 miles of range per hour of charge, with a full charge achievable in around 30 minutes.
Level 3 charging connectors commonly include CCS1, CCS2, CHAdeMO, and GB/T (DC) (shown in the image above). The charging process involves a high charging load, typically between 50-150 kW, and requires a current of less than 125 amps, typically around 60 amps.EV Charging Station Schematics
Level 3 EV charging stations integrate with the electrical grid for swift power delivery.
About Level 3 electric car charge time
As the photovoltaic (PV) industry continues to evolve, advancements in Level 3 electric car charge time have become critical to optimizing the utilization of renewable energy sources. From innovative battery technologies to intelligent energy management systems, these solutions are transforming the way we store and distribute solar-generated electricity.
When you're looking for the latest and most efficient Level 3 electric car charge time for your PV project, our website offers a comprehensive selection of cutting-edge products designed to meet your specific requirements. Whether you're a renewable energy developer, utility company, or commercial enterprise looking to reduce your carbon footprint, we have the solutions to help you harness the full potential of solar energy.
By interacting with our online customer service, you'll gain a deep understanding of the various Level 3 electric car charge time featured in our extensive catalog, such as high-efficiency storage batteries and intelligent energy management systems, and how they work together to provide a stable and reliable power supply for your PV projects.
