Charging Your Electric Car with Level 2 Station- How long does it take?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are all the rage these days. They are efficient, environment-friendly, and in some cases, even offer a better driving experience than their fossil-fueled counterparts. But the one thing that is keeping many people from buying an EV is the anxiety over their charging capacity.

Summary:

The good news is that charging stations for EVs are now widely available, and it doesn't take very long to top up your battery. In fact, if you use a level 2 station, you can expect your EV to be fully charged within a few hours.

What is a Level 2 Station?

Level 2 charging stations are the most common charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in urban areas. They use a 240-volt power supply, which is the same voltage that most household appliances use, such as your dryer or oven. Unlike Level 1 stations, which use a standard household outlet, Level 2 stations are specifically designed for EVs and are faster, more efficient, and more reliable.

• Level 2 stations require professional installation
• They deliver charging speeds that are six times faster than a standard Level 1 home outlet
• They are equipped with advanced EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) technology

Charging Time for Level 2 Stations

The charging time for your electric vehicle using a Level 2 station depends on several factors, such as the size of your EV's battery, the charging speed of the station, and the condition of your battery. Typically, with a Level 2 station, you can expect to charge most electric vehicles fully within 4 to 8 hours.

• The average EV battery has a capacity of 60 kWh
• A Level 2 station delivers 7.2 kW of power
• On average, a Level 2 station charges at a speed of 20-30 miles per hour

This means that if you have a 60 kWh battery, it will take approximately 7-8 hours to charge completely using a Level 2 station.

Factors That Affect Charging Time at Level 2 Stations

Although 4 to 8 hours may seem like a long time to wait, there are some factors that can help you reduce your charging time.

• Battery Size: The size of your battery determines how long it will take to charge. EVs with larger batteries will take longer to charge compared to those with smaller batteries.
• Charging Speed: The charging speed of your EV is essential, and it varies depending on the model. Newer EV models can accept higher charging speeds.
• Battery State: The health and age of your battery can also influence charging time. Since older or damaged batteries may not hold as much charge.

Key Takeaways

• Level 2 charging stations use a 240-volt power supply and are six times faster than a standard Level 1 outlet.
• Charging an EV with a Level 2 station takes approximately 4-8 hours.
• The size of your battery, charging speed, and battery state influence charging times.
• Level 2 stations are the most common infrastructure for charging EVs in most urban areas.

The Bottom Line:

Charging an electric car with a Level 2 station is quick and easy. This type of charging station delivers six times more power than an ordinary home outlet, and you can charge any electric vehicle model within 4-8 hours. It's a convenient and accessible solution that helps you avoid range anxiety and powers your EV for whatever trips come your way.