EV Charger Types

Keeping an electric vehicle like the Chevy Bolt or Blazer EV properly charged is easier than ever, thanks to the convenient EV charger types available for both home use and at public stations. But what are the different types of EV chargers, and what kind of performance can you expect from each of them? To ensure your EV is adequately charged for the roads of North Pole, Fort Wainwright, and beyond, Chevrolet GMC Of Fairbanks answer these questions in the following guide to EV charger types.

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers? 

So, just what are the different types of EV chargers? Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3, or DC Fast Charging, are your options, with each one delivering different charging speeds. Below, we do a deeper dive into the question, What are the three types of EV charging?

Level 1 Charging 

Level 1 chargers give you up to five miles of range per hour. All you need is a traditional 120-volt household outlet and charging equipment with a standard plug-in. As it’s the slowest of all EV charger types, Level 1 is ideal when you have a lot of time at home to charge up or when your daily driving needs involve lower mileage; Level 1 is particularly well suited to PHEVs because of their smaller batteries. Here are some other important things to know about Level 1 charging:

• No special installation needed
• Perfect for PHEVs, overnight charging, and low-mileage drivers
• EV charging connector type: J1772 or Tesla connector

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging recoups somewhere between 12 to 80 miles per hour, with the average being about 25 miles per hour. These chargers use a 240-volt outlet and are available at public charging stations around Eielson Airforce Base. You can also have one professionally installed at home, as Level 2 uses the same type of outlet as a clothes dryer. Check out some other key features of Level 2 chargers:

• Readily available at public charging stations or professionally installed in homes
• Excellent for overnight charging, often restoring a full charge from empty in eight to 10 hours
• EV charging connector type: J1772 or Tesla connector

Level 3 Charging 

Of the three types of EV charging, Level 3 is the speediest solution. Also known as DC Fast Chargers, Level 3 systems use a direct current and require higher voltage, which sets them apart from Level 1 and 2 systems. In most cases, they can deliver an 80% charge in around 20 or 30 minutes. Take a look at some quick Level 3 facts:

• Found only at public stations, given their substantial energy needs
• Designed for charging on the go, with a minimum of downtime
• EV charging connector type: Most non-Tesla chargers utilize a CCS/SAE Combo connector

Test-Drive Your Next EV in Fairbanks

We’ve covered a lot of crucial information here in answering the question, What are the three types of EV charging? When you’re ready to start shopping for your next electric vehicle, explore our latest inventory, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the EV lifestyle. From no more refueling stops to fewer maintenance needs to a more eco-friendly driving experience, we know you’ll enjoy all the benefits of EV ownership.