What is a Type 2 Charging Cable?
Type 2 charging cables can have a charging capacity of up to 22 kW.
You can discover more information on our website, so be sure to check it out.
Depending on the cable's coding, the charging power may vary, such as a maximum of 4.6 kW with a single-phase cable rated for 20 A.
When purchasing, ensure you pay attention to the maximum charging power of your Type 2 cable and the available phases.
For instance, if you charge your electric vehicle using a 22 kW wallbox and your car can only accept 11 kW, you won't be able to charge faster than 11 kW.
To achieve the fastest charging speeds for your electric vehicle, opt for a Type 2 charging cable that supports three-phase charging.
Understanding EV Charging Levels
Enhance Your Charging Knowledge
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, with over 10 million new EVs sold globally last year, many of which were purchased by first-time buyers.
A notable change in the shift towards electric mobility is how we recharge our vehicles. Unlike traditional gas stations, the locations for charging electric vehicles vary greatly, and charging times can differ based on the charging station used.
This article details the three levels of EV charging and describes the characteristics of each, including the types of current they use, their power output, and how long it typically takes to charge.
What are the Different Levels of EV Charging?
EV charging is categorized into three levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Generally, the higher the charging level, the greater the power output and the faster your electric vehicle will recharge.
While this may seem straightforward, there are additional factors to consider. Before exploring each level in detail, it's essential to understand the electrical currents that power EV charging stations.
How are EV Charging Stations Powered?
In simple terms, there are two types of electrical currents relevant to EV charging: Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC).
Alternating Current vs. Direct Current
Alternating Current (AC)
AC electricity, which flows from the grid and is what you find in standard home outlets, regularly changes direction, hence the name. AC's capability to transmit over long distances efficiently makes it the standard worldwide.
On the other hand, direct current is constantly flowing in one direction and is what we utilize to power electronic devices.
Direct Current (DC)
The power stored in batteries or used in electronic circuitry is direct current. When you plug an electronic device into a socket, it receives AC from the grid, which must be converted to DC by the device itself.
Electric vehicles follow a similar process, converting AC power from the grid into DC to store in the battery, which powers the vehicle.
Which Type of Current Charges My Electric Car?
Level 1 and Level 2 charging convert AC to DC inside the vehicle, while Level 3 charging delivers DC power directly. This direct supply eliminates the slower onboard conversion process, resulting in significantly higher power outputs and faster charging times.
The Distinctions Between EV Charging Levels
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Now that we understand the differences between AC and DC and know that Level 3 offers the fastest charging speed, it’s time to consider how long it takes to charge an electric car at each level.
Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 Average Charging Time Comparison
- Level 1 EV Charging: It typically takes about 19 hours to charge a medium-sized car.
- Level 2 Charging: Charging time for a medium-sized electric car ranges from approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 6 hours.
- Level 3 Charging: Charging a medium-sized electric car usually takes between 17 and 52 minutes.
What is Level 1 Charging?
This is the slowest yet the most accessible method to charge an electric vehicle.
How Does Level 1 Charging Work?
Level 1 charging involves using the cable provided with the electric vehicle, which you plug into a standard wall outlet. Although this method is convenient, it restricts the power output to about 2.3 kW.
How Fast is Level 1 Charging?
Charging times vary based on the vehicle and factors like weather and driving style. Level 1 charging generally provides about 4 to 5 miles of range per hour (6 to 8 kilometers). Thus, driving 100 miles (160 kilometers) would require around 20 to 25 hours for a full charge.
Due to its slower charging speed and minimal protection beyond circuit breakers, Level 1 is primarily discouraged for regular use and suggested only as a backup option.
What is Level 2 Charging?
Level 2 charging necessitates a dedicated charging station, commonly found in public, commercial, or residential spaces. It operates using AC power but offers significantly faster charging than Level 1.
How Does Level 2 Charging Work?
Level 2 charging stations are specialized units installed directly into your home’s electrical circuit by certified technicians, offering relatively fast charging speeds.
How Fast is Level 2 Charging?
Level 2 charging can be about 5 to 15 times faster than Level 1, depending on the output and the vehicle. For example, with a 7.4 kW output, charging for one hour can add roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) of range.
What is Level 3 Charging?
Level 3 charging (DC) is considerably faster than Level 2 charging, capable of adding significant range in as little as 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the vehicle and charging station.
However, because it requires a higher power output, Level 3 charging stations are often located at commercial establishments such as gas stations rather than at public parking areas.
How Does Level 3 EV Charging Work?
As previously mentioned, electric car batteries only store DC energy. Consequently, Level 3 stations convert AC from the grid to DC on-site, allowing for much faster charging.
Why Level 3 Charging Differs?
The robust converters and rapid power input influence the charging rate. While Level 1 and Level 2 charging delivers power steadily, Level 3 charging quickly reaches a peak power output before gradually slowing as the battery approaches full capacity.
This method is akin to pouring water into a glass; the initial flow is rapid, but it slows as the glass fills to prevent overflow. Thus, charging slows once the battery exceeds 80% to avoid damage.
Discover More About EV Charging
The differences among Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging significantly affect the speed of charging your electric vehicle. Familiarity with how these levels function is crucial, but several other aspects can influence your overall charging experience.
For a comprehensive overview of EV charging, including charging locations, costs, and factors impacting charging times, consult our detailed EV charging guide.
Would you like to learn more about the Type 2 Portable EV Charger? Reach out to us today to arrange for an expert consultation!
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