Electric Vehicle Charging
Electric vehicles (EVs) have transformed the automotive industry by offering a cleaner and more sustainable means of transportation. As interest in EVs grows, understanding EV charging and its role in promoting an environmentally friendly future becomes essential.
This guide will outline the key principles of EV charging, describe various charging methods, and clarify the charging process. Whether a new EV owner or someone interested in this technology, this article will provide the knowledge necessary to navigate the field of EV charging effectively.
What is EV charging?
EV charging refers to electric vehicle charging, which is essential for powering vehicles that require electricity for operation. This infrastructure, consisting of various types of charging stations, plays a crucial role in promoting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. It enables EV owners to charge their vehicles at home, at work, and in public places. There are two distinct types of EV charging available.
Types of EV charging
There are two different levels of EV charging. They are different based on their charging speeds and power capabilities. Let’s dive in together.
Level 1 Charging
Level 1 charging is the most basic way to charge your EV as your charger plugs into a standard 120V wall receptacle and does not require any power upgrades to your home. Level 1 is the slowest method of charging as it could take several days to achieve a full charge on your EV. If you have your EV for casual use or don’t require a fast overnight charge, level 1 charging may be right for you.
Level 2 Charging
These chargers are much faster compared to level 1. These chargers can be installed at home, workplaces, and public charging stations, as they offer higher power output. If you require fast overnight charging, this is the right solution. A level 2 charging station runs on 240 V and can add significant load to your home’s electrical service. When installing a level 2 charger, your electrician will be required to obtain an electrical permit and will likely need to provide a load calculation for the inspection authority to review. Depending on the capacity of your electrical service, you may require an service upgrade or an energy management system to have your level 2 charger operate safely and pass electrical inspection.
Factors that Affect EV Charging
There are multiple factors that affect the EV charging, mainly like charging speed, time, infrastructure power level, grid capacity, etc.