Are All Electric Car Chargers the Same?

If you’re interested in joining the millions of Americans transitioning to driving an EV, you likely know that EVs require charging to proceed on Cary roads. But are all electric car chargers the same? The answer is yes! If you purchase a new EV, you don’t have to buy a special charger because electric car chargers are universal! All electric vehicles use the same standard plug for Level 1 and Level 2 charging, the two most popular types of chargers. The only form of charging station exclusive to a specific brand is the Tesla Supercharger. Learn more about the different types of electric car chargers here with Hendrick Dodge Cary and contact us with any questions.

What Are the Different Types of Electric Car Chargers?

Apex drivers have three different types of electric car chargers to choose from: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. What makes each charger stand out from the others is its charging speed. Here’s a summary of the different types of electric car charger stations, their charging speeds, and where you might find them.

Level 1 EV Charging

Level 1 charging stations have a charging speed of about three to five miles per hour and use a 120-volt household outlet. That suggests that any EV can be charged on a Level 1 charging station simply by plugging the charging equipment into a standard household wall outlet. Because Level 1 charging is the slowest method, it’s helpful for plug-in hybrid vehicles since they have smaller batteries.

Level 2 EV Charging

Level 2 chargers add between 12 to 80 miles of range to your EV per hour. Level 2 is ideal for those Carrboro drivers needing to run errands around town or commute to work. This type of EV charging must be professionally installed.

Level 3 EV Charging

Level 3 charging is the fastest type of charger, with a charging speed of about three to 20 miles per minute. Level 3 EV chargers use a direct current (DC), while Level 1 and Level 2 chargers use an alternating current (AC). Level 3 chargers require a much higher voltage, so you typically won’t see these in homes. You can find Level 3 chargers in public spaces around Chapel Hill, such as shopping mall parking lots or parking garages.

Learn More About EVs with Hendrick Dodge Cary

Now that you understand the different types of electric car chargers, if you want to upgrade to an electric car, get in touch with us. We invite you to explore our pre-owned specials and used vehicle inventory, where you can find an affordable pre-owned EV or pre-owned plug-in hybrid! We’re here to make all of your automotive dreams come true!