Are you considering buying an electric vehicle (EV)? Or maybe you have one already? In either case you will want to know about the different types of electric car chargers.
Historically, EV drivers have faced two problems: a limited range and a lack of places to charge. Ranges are increasing as the technology improves. But what about EV charging facilities? Are they keeping up with the pace?
The types of electric car chargers
There are three main types of EV chargers: slow, fast and rapid, otherwise known as one, two and three.
Rapid chargers (level 3) are the fastest way to charge your EV. You’ll most likely find them at motorway service stations or close to main routes. Rapid devices are rated at 43kW or above. They use either AC or DC to recharge your car as quickly as possible.
Fast chargers (level 2) are the next fastest way to charge your EV. And if your car isn’t compatible with rapid charging function, this is the quickest way to go. Fast chargers are rated at either 7kW or 22kW. And you’ll find them in public spaces such as supermarkets and car parks. Use one of these and your car will typically charge in three or four hours.
Slow chargers (level 1) tend to be 3kW. In many ways they are more practical, as they mean you can plug into a normal socket and charge your car at home or at work. But it will take between eight and ten hours to get to 80 percent.
Charging speed slows as your battery gets closer to full charge. And that’s why everyone quotes times for an 80 percent charge.
Most EV owners plug in at home, at work, or both.
Now you know the three different ways of charging your electric car, check out tomorrow’s article to discover the top five EV chargers to use at home.