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Types of Chargers

Electric vehicle chargers.

Electric car charging is easier than you think

You can charge at home or on the road at public charging stations. The cost to charge an EV is the same as the standard residential electric rate, which varies, but is typically less than fuel costs.
graphic of ev plugged into level 1 charger

Level 1: Standard Wall Outlet (120 Volt)

  • Up to 5 miles of range per hour
  • No installation required – every EV will come with a standard Level 1 charger that you can drive home and plug into the wall
  • Best used for overnight charging and low-mileage daily driving – a good option for plug-in hybrid vehicles because of their smaller batteries
  • J1772 connector or Tesla connector (comes with vehicle)
graphic of ev plugged into level 2 charger

Level 2: 240-Volt Outlet (Dryer Plug)

  • Average of 25 miles of range per hour
  • Often found in public areas (rest areas, shopping centers, restaurants, etc.)
  • Option to purchase and have it installed by a qualified electrician – can be either hardwired or plugged into an existing 240-volt outlet (dryer plug)
  • Best for quick charging – can get a full charge from empty overnight (8-10 hours)
  • J1772 connector or Tesla connector (comes with vehicle)
graphic of ev plugged in DC fast charger

DC Fast Charging

  • Fastest electric car charging option – provides up to 250 miles of range per hour, depending on the car and charging equipment
  • Can charge up to 80% typically in about 20 to 30 minutes
  • Used to facilitate longer distance driving or road trips or for a quick recharge
  • Most non-Tesla chargers have a CCS/SAE Combo connector
  • Tesla DC fast chargers will only work with Tesla vehicles

Buying a Charger

blue ev plugged into charger
  • Depending on your needs, there are several charger types and levels available. Your car’s battery size and your home’s power level are two things to think about when purchasing a Level 2 home charger.
  • Determine how fast you need the charger to be and your price range – generally an additional 10 amps at 240 volts will yield around 10 miles of range per hour.
  • You’ll need to engage an electrician to ensure that you choose an at home charger that fits your home’s power capabilities and has the infrastructure to support it.
  • EV chargers need to be UL certified. It’s important to ensure they are safe and have passed all the mandatory guidelines.
  • Smart chargers have Wi-Fi connectivity. These chargers can be monitored and controlled by your smartphone or connected to your home assistant (Alexa, Google Home, etc.).

Fast Charger Connectors

All EVs except Tesla use the same J1772 connector for Level 2 charging. Tesla makes adapters that allow their vehicles to charge using J1772 and CHAdeMO connectors. Not all EVs have the option to use a DC fast charger, and sometimes it is available as an upgrade option. Be sure to research your model.

  • CCS (SAE Combo)

    is compatible with BMW®, Volkswagen and General Motors EVs.

  • CHAdeMO

    is compatible with Nissan, Mitsubishi and some Kia®, EVs. Compatible with Tesla EVs if you have a Tesla CHAdeMO adapter.

  • Tesla Supercharger

    is compatible with Tesla only. 

  • Benefits of EVs

    Electric cars are better for the planet and can help you save on fuel and maintenance costs.

  • Charging your EV

    There are many options for charging your car at home, in public and on the road.

  • EV Initiatives

    We’re helping promote electric vehicles (EVs) and expand charging infrastructure.

  • Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

    See legislation updates and eligibility for clean vehicle tax credits and incentives.

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