What is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 Chargers?

Level 2 charging is the most commonly used level for daily EV charging. Level 2 charging equipment can be installed at home, at the workplace, as well as in public locations like shopping plazas, train stations and other destinations. Level 2 charging can replenish between 12 and 80 miles of range per hour, depending on the power output of the Level 2 charger, and the vehicle’s maximum charge rate. Level 3 charging is the fastest type of charging available and can recharge an EV at a rate of 3 to 20 miles of range per minute. Unlike Level 1 and Level 2 charging that uses alternating current (AC), Level 3 charging uses direct current (DC).

Do all EVs use the same connector?

In North America, all EVs except Tesla use the same connector for Level 1 and Level 2 charging, called J1772 or the “J-Plug.” For Level 3 charging there are three standards currently in use. Tesla uses its proprietary plug, Nissan and Mitsubishi use the Asian standard called CHAdeMO, and all other manufacturers use the Combined Charging System, CCS or “Combo” plug. However, Nissan recently announced they will be switching to the Combo plug for Level 3 charging in their new EVs in North America and Europe beginning later in 2021.

Can I install a Level 2 charger in my home?

Most homes in the US can add a circuit for a Level 2 charger without the need to upgrade the service. A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 240-volt circuit like that of an electric clothes dryer or electric kitchen range. In some instances, you can even share the existing circuit that powers the electric clothes dryer with your Level 2 EV charger if it’s located in your garage, or nearby.

How much does it cost to install a Level 2 charger?

Level 2 chargers cost between $250 and $1,000, depending on the power and features available. Installation typically range from $200 to $1,000, and into the thousands if you require a service upgrade to add the additional circuit needed. It’s wise to consult the advice of a licensed electrician before purchasing an EV, so you know exactly how much it will cost to install the home charging equipment in advance. A federal tax credit can offset up to 30% of the cost of buying and installing a charger. It’s effective through the end of 2021.

What level is the charge cable that came with my car? If I have that, do I need a charging unit in the garage or just a 240-volt outlet?

Every electric vehicle comes with a portable charger. Some are Level 1, some are Level 2 and others come with adapters that allow them to plug in and charge from both Level 1 and Level 2 outlets. Some units are all the owner will need to charge their EV, but others aren’t powerful enough and owners will want to buy a more powerful charger. You need to check the power output of the standard charger and see how it matches up with your charging needs, based on how many miles you drive in a typical day.

Can I charge my EV on a Tesla Supercharger?

No. Tesla Superchargers can only be used to charge Tesla vehicles. The Tesla Supercharger network is a proprietary network installed by Tesla for Tesla customers only.

Can I charge my Tesla on a non-Tesla DC Fast Charger in places where I wouldn’t find a Supercharger?

Yes. Tesla sells a $400 adapter that allows Tesla owners to plug into CHAdeMO DC fast chargers. Tesla also plans to sell a Combo adapter so Tesla owners can also access DC Fast chargers with the Combo standard. Tesla to Combo adapters are already available in Europe, but the North American Combo plug is slightly different, so a different adapter needed to be developed.

How much does it cost to charge on a Level 3 charger?

Level 3 chargers are operated by private charging networks, and the pricing varies greatly from network to network. Some bill the customer by how long the vehicle is connected to the charger, while others bill by how much energy was dispensed. Charging your EV on a level 3 charger will almost always cost much more than charging at home and can cost 2 to 3 times as much at some locations. At that point, the cost to drive on electricity is nearly the same as the cost to drive using gasoline although with lower total emissions.

Are there ways to get cheaper prices on Level 3 chargers?

Most EV charging networks offer discounted charging if you join a monthly or yearly service plan that requires you to pay a fee. However, if you use the network more than once a month the savings usually more than cover the cost of the monthly membership.

If an automaker has an affiliation with a Level 3 charge service, does that give me a discount?

Many automakers offer discounted or even free charging for a number of years on a particular charging network. In some cases an EV can come with free unlimited charging for up to three years on a partner network. Always ask your dealership if any discounted or free charging plans come with the EV you’re considering.