How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Vehicle?

You may have some questions about charging your new electric vehicle around  Woodway, such as “Where can I charge my EV?” “Do I need a special adapter?” “How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?” The answers to these questions vary depending on what type, make, and model of EV you drive, but aren’t as complicated as you think. Read on to find out more about electric car charging.

What are My Electric Car Charging Options?

There are three main types of EV charging available: domestic, rapid, and public charging. Here’s a breakdown of how long each one takes:

1. Domestic Outlet Plug-In Home Charging: This charging method doesn’t require any special equipment, but it is also the slowest. Known as Level 1 charging, this method takes a common grounded (three-prong) 110V/120V home outlet. This type of charging can take over 24 hours for a complete charge, but most people use it for topping up the battery pack after commuting to and from work. 
2. ProfessionallyInstalled Domestic Charging: Level 2 charging requires professionally installed equipment, but it is much faster than Level 1. Level 2 charging requires a 240V+ outlet and most are specific to the brand of your car. It takes about four hours for a full charge. 
3. Public Charging: Public charging is usually the fastest depending on the type of charger. Level 3 or Level 2 DC charging can take as little as 30 to 40 minutes and is convenient. If you are out shopping in Temple, you can find public charging available at shopping centers, parking garages, and hotels with more coming every day.

Domestic Charging vs. Public Charging

When it comes to EV charging time, consider both how long it takes to charge as well as how convenient it is. 

• Level 1 EV charging at home can take days for a full charge, but it is convenient and doesn’t require special equipment. Most home chargers offer 3.7 kW or 7 kW charging.
• Level 2 EV charging can fully charge an electric car in a few hours, but it does require extra equipment and expense.
• Level 3 EV charging is the fastest and can fully recharge most electric cars in an hour or less. This is only available at some public charging stations. Public stations offer 22 kW charging, 43-50 kW rapid charging, and 150 kW rapid charging. 

Plug-in hybrids charge slower than EVs. It takes 1-4 hours to fully charge a hybrid because they are designed differently from EVs. Hybrid’s are designed to use electric power for a brief space of time or under a certain speed, then change to gasoline power.

Take a Look at Electric Vehicles Near Gatesville

Explore our new electric and hybrid inventory today. Take a virtual tour and apply for financing online to get behind the wheel of the EV or hybrid of your dreams. Come in to Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram FIAT for a test drive today or contact us online to make an appointment! For more helpful reads, review whether electric vehicles are reliable and if extended warranties are worth it!