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The Difference Between Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers

September 8, 2023

Hey, electric car enthusiasts! Today, I will discuss the difference between Level 1 and 2 EV chargers. If you're new to electric cars or just curious about charging options, this article is for you. So, let's get started!

Level 1 EV Chargers

Level 1 chargers, also known as trickle chargers, uses a standard 120V power outlet and are usually included with purchasing an electric vehicle. These chargers are best suited for cars parked in a residential setting for extended periods. They can provide about 1.2 kW of power to the car. However, Level 1 chargers could be faster and add about 4 miles of range per hour. This means an electric car takes 17 to 25 hours to travel 100 miles on a full charge.

Level 2 Electric Vehicle Chargers

Level 2 chargers are upgraded versions of Level 1 chargers and require a 208/240-volt power supply and specialized circuitry. These chargers are more common and work up to 6 times faster than Level 1 chargers. Level 2 chargers can deliver 6.2 to 19.2 kW of power to a vehicle, most chargers are around 7.6 kW. This means they can add about 25 miles of RPH to fully charge a 100-mile battery in as little as 4-5 hours.

Imagine you're driving a Tesla Model 3 with a 100-mile battery. If you're using a Level 1 charger, it will take about 17-25 hours to fully charge the vehicle. But if you use a Level 2 charger, you can fully charge your Model 3 in just 4-5 hours. That makes Level 2 chargers more practical and convenient for everyday use.

Why choose Level 2 over Level 1?

While Level 1 chargers can be used for occasional charging at home, they are only practical for some EV drivers due to their slow charging speed. On the other hand, Level 2 chargers offer faster charging times and are more suitable for everyday use. Upgrading to a Level 2 charger is a wise and practical investment for EV owners, as it reduces mileage anxiety and makes charging more convenient.

Stay tuned to TECOPHASE!

This article helped you understand the difference between Level 1 and 2 EV chargers. If you want to learn more about electric vehicles and charging options, follow our blog and check out our website: www.tecophase.com. Stay tuned for more informative and engaging content!