how fast is level 2 charging (EV charger)?
Level 2 chargers are a popular choice for electric vehicle (EV) owners who need faster charging compared to the standard Level 1 chargers. They run on a 240-volt power supply, which is typically found at homes, workplaces, and public charging stations. Thanks to their higher power output, Level 2 chargers are the go-to option for most EV owners who want to cut down on charging time.
Knowing how fast your vehicle charges can make a big difference in planning daily trips and long journeys. It helps you manage your time better, ensuring your EV is ready when you need it. Also, understanding the charging speed helps you choose the right charger for your needs.
What Affects Charging Speed?
Several factors influence how long it takes to charge your EV, from the size of the battery to the charger itself.
- Charger Power Output
Level 2 chargers typically provide power between 3.3 kW to 22 kW. The higher the power, the quicker the charging. With a faster charger, your EV can gain more miles of range per hour.
- EV Battery Size
The capacity of your EV’s battery, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), plays a major role in how long it takes to charge. Bigger batteries take longer to charge. For example, a 40 kWh battery will charge faster than a 100 kWh battery, even if both are using the same Level 2 charger.
- Charging Levels
There are three main charging levels: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging (Level 3). Each one provides different speeds. Level 2 charging is a nice middle ground—faster than Level 1 but not as fast or expensive as DC fast chargers.
- Charger Quality
The quality of the charging equipment (like cables and connectors) also affects how quickly your car charges. Good equipment ensures better power transfer and faster charging.
Understanding Level 2 Charging
Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt AC power source, which is then converted to DC by the car’s onboard charger. This method is much more efficient and quicker than the standard Level 1 chargers that use 120-volt household outlets.
Typically, Level 2 chargers deliver power between 3.3 kW and 22 kW. This means that you can add anywhere from 20 to 60 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the specific charger and your EV’s specs.
Comparing Charging Levels
Level 1 Charging
Level 1 chargers plug into a regular 120-volt outlet and add just 3-5 miles of range per hour. This is fine for overnight charging but not enough for daily use unless you don’t drive much.
DC Fast Charging
These chargers are much faster, offering 50-350 kW of power, which means your car can get up to 200 miles of range in around 30 minutes. While DC fast chargers are great for long road trips and quick top-ups, they are more expensive and not as commonly found as Level 2 chargers.
How Fast Does a Level 2 Charger Actually Charge?
A typical Level 2 charger adds about 20-60 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the power output and the EV model. This makes it fast enough for most everyday driving needs.
Here’s what affects your charging speed:
- Charger Power Output: A higher output gives you faster charging.
- Battery Size: Bigger batteries take longer to charge.
- State of Charge: As the battery fills up, charging slows down.
- Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures can slow down the charging process.
For example, using a 7.2 kW Level 2 charger, it will take about 8-9 hours to fully charge a 60 kWh battery, while a 20 kWh battery might take only 2-3 hours under the same conditions.
Types of Connectors and Plugs for Level 2 Charging
Level 2 chargers use specific connectors to ensure compatibility with different EVs. Some of the most common ones include:
- SAE J1772 (Type 1): This is the standard connector in North America. It works with nearly all EVs, except Teslas (unless you use an adapter).
- Mennekes (Type 2): This is the standard connector in Europe, and it supports both single-phase and three-phase AC power. It’s widely used across the EU.
- GB/T: This is the connector used in China. It typically supports up to 7.4 kW of power and is gaining popularity due to the rapid growth of EVs in China.
- Tesla NACS: This is Tesla’s proprietary connector, mainly found in North America. It supports both AC Level 2 and DC fast charging.
Public Level 2 Charging Stations
Public Level 2 chargers are becoming more common in cities, shopping malls, workplaces, and other public spaces. They offer a convenient way for EV owners to charge while they’re out and about. Many cities and businesses are installing Level 2 chargers to support the growing number of EVs on the road.
Charging time at these stations depends on the power output of the charger and the size of your vehicle’s battery. For example, with a 7.2 kW charger, a 60 kWh battery can gain about 50 miles of range in one hour. This makes public Level 2 chargers ideal for long-term parking or overnight charging, where you can easily charge your car while you’re not using it.
What to Consider When Using Public Level 2 Charging Stations
- Cost: Public charging stations may charge either by the hour or based on energy usage (kWh). Some stations offer free charging, typically funded by local businesses or governments.
- Availability: These chargers may be busy during peak times, especially in densely populated areas. You can check real-time availability using mobile apps or make reservations in advance.
- Charging Speed: Make sure the charger is compatible with your vehicle to ensure the best charging speed. Some public chargers offer faster power outputs, which can reduce your charging time.
- Accessibility: When choosing a charging station, consider its location. Make sure it’s in a safe and well-lit area, especially if you’re charging at night.
In summary, Level 2 charging is a solid choice for efficient and convenient EV charging. It strikes the right balance between speed, cost, and availability, making it suitable for both home use and public locations. Whether you’re charging at home, work, or on the go, knowing how fast your EV charges can help you plan your day more effectively.