Different Types of EV Chargers for Electric Vehicles & Their Uses

Electric cars are everywhere now, and demand for them is increasing rapidly daily. So, if you are planning to purchase an EV car, you need to know about the different types of chargers, as each one has its own advantages, from primary Level-1 charging to DC charging. Knowing the differences between charger types helps you select the best solution based on your needs. 

Continue reading to learn more details about different types of EV chargers, their features, and usage, which will help you select better charging options.

Electric mobility has grown beyond a trend that is more of a paradigm shift in our thought process regarding transportation and energy consumption. With technological improvements and increasing awareness of the environmental factor, electric vehicles are growing on our roads at all times. 

However, it is crucial to embrace this revolution to understand how to charge these vehicles fully. The entire ecosystem of an electric vehicle is dependent on charging infrastructure. First, there are chargers that customers can plug in at home when they're not in public stations. 

There are various types of chargers that you can use to charge your EV vehicle. These include:

Level 1 Chargers

A Level 1 charger is the simplest type and is always in a standard household outlet. It works at a 120-volt rating using a standard three-pronged plug and is accessible to most homeowners. Below are a few key points to remember:

• Charging Speed: The average charging speed for Level 1 chargers is 4-5 miles per hour. This slow charging speed makes this charger suitable for overnight charging or people commuting relatively short distances each day.
• Installation: Level 1 chargers do not need any special installation; they can be directly inserted into any standard receptacle. Some homeowners may, however, ask for a dedicated circuit as a courtesy.
• Cost: Level 1 chargers are usually the cheapest, both in purchase and installation. They are ideal for an EV owner who can charge overnight.
• Best Use: Level 1 chargers are best for people who drive relatively short miles daily and can charge their vehicle overnight.

Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 chargers prove to be more efficient, offering faster charging times compared to Level 1 chargers. They operate at 240 volts and are normally used in homes, commercial spaces, and even public stations. Below are a few things to remember regarding Level 2 chargers:

• Rate of Charging: Level 2 chargers add a range of about 10 to 60 miles per hour, depending on the vehicle and the type of charger. They are often used for daily use and long-distance travel.
• Installation: Level 2 chargers are usually installed by professionals because they require a dedicated circuit. The homeowner might even require an electrical panel upgrade.
• Cost: While Level 2 chargers are costlier than Level 1 chargers, they offer better performance and are a good investment for most frequent EV users.
• Best Use: Level 2 chargers are an excellent solution for individuals who have owned houses and have allocated parking space at their place. This solution can also be applied to the workplace and public charging stations.

DC Fast Chargers

The DC fast charger is the quickest charging option. It charges direct DC within the charging unit, allowing higher power levels than the other chargers. A few things to remember about DC fast chargers are mentioned below:

• Charging Speed: DC fast chargers could add 60-80 miles of range in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for long road trips and a quick stop for filling up.
• Installation: Due to their very high power, DC fast chargers are widely installed as part of public charging stations along highways or in other commercial establishments.
• Cost: DC fast chargers are considerably more expensive than Level 1 and Level 2 chargers in terms of installation and equipment costs. However, they are essential for infrastructure along major travel routes.
• Best Use: A DC Fast Charger is best for long-distance motorists. EV users can refuel on the road using a DC Fast Charger. Portable chargers are usually installed at the roadside and at travel spots that people frequent. 

Portable Chargers

Portable chargers are an informal choice for owners to refuel their EVs if they cannot access the standard charging stations. Portable chargers can be plugged into 120-volt household outlets and provide Level 1 charging, though they are built to be portable.

• Charging Speed: In most similarities to the charging speed of Level 1 chargers, portables can refill a given EV's range of about 4-5 miles every hour. They are best used during emergencies or when one cannot access other charging sources.
• Installation: No installation is required; they will work directly into any standard outlet. However, they will take more time to charge than the specialised home chargers.
• Cost: Portable chargers are inexpensive and practical additions for EV owners who travel frequently or do not have a dedicated charging station at home.
• Best Uses: Portable chargers are perfect for frequent flyers or apartment dwellers without in-wall charging infrastructure.

Wireless Chargers

This technology remains at the infancy stage but will continue to attract growing interest in the EV market. It uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between a charging pad placed on the ground and a receiver in the vehicle. A few things to keep in mind about wireless chargers are:

• Charging Speed: Wireless chargers now charge as fast as Level 2 chargers; however, efficiencies are bound to improve.
• Installation: Putting a charging pad on the ground typically requires changes as significant as a regular charger.
• Cost: Wireless charging systems still need to be more costly to install compared to traditional chargers. The advantage is not having to concern oneself with plugging in.
• Best Use: Wireless chargers would be the best use for a high-visibility, tech-inclined EV owner with a budget for the high end.

Public Charging Station

Public charging stations typically consist of a combination of Level 2 and DC fast chargers. They are located in shopping centres, parking garages, and along highways, which makes them easily accessible to EV users. Below are some points to know about public charging stations:

• Charging Speed: This depends on the type of charging station; Level 2 would typically be slower than a DC fast charger.
• Availability: Anyone with an EV can use public charging stations; most networks have apps to help locate stations in the area.
• Cost: Charges for public station charging vary considerably and are location- and charging network-dependent. Most stations are free or charge per kilowatt hour or session.
• Best Use: Public charging stations are ideal for drivers who travel long distances or do not have home charging solutions.
• Types of Connectors: The Level 1 and Level 2 connectors are mostly found in public charging stations. The widely seen one is SAE J1772, through which all-electric vehicles can be charged. The fast charging stations include CHAdeMO and SAE Combo and are used by charging network operators. 

With the electric vehicle market increasing, knowledge of the various EV charger types is crucial in making decisions that will allow for informed requirements for your charging needs. Each has advantages and uses, from Level 1 units for home use to DC fast-charging units for longer cross-country drives.

To select an appropriate charger, one must consider usage, daily mileage, and accessibility to charging infrastructure. With rising technology, new charging solutions, like wireless charging devices, will be introduced on the market, making it even more effortless for EV owners to use their vehicles.