Where Can You Charge?
- At home: Cheapest & most convenient option for most. You can plug into a regular outlet for Level 1 charging or install Level 2.
- At work: Some workplaces offer charging. Clean Fuels Ohio can help you talk to your employer about installing charging options!
- On the go: Google and Apple Maps, downloadable apps & your car’s navigation system locate charging stations near you or on route.
Types of EV Charging Stations
Level 1
Level 1 chargers provide about 3-5 miles of range per hour. These charges offer the slowest charge but are easily accessible with connection to a common household outlet.
Level 2 (240kW)
Level to chargers have charge about 12-80 miles of range per hour. This equipment can be installed anywhere.
Level 3 (Direct Current Fast Charging)
Supercharging is capable of 3-20miles of range per minute, typically only for all electric vehicles. These type of chargers are located only in public locations and are only needed for extended trips.
Direct current (“DC”) fast chargers are the most similar to the ‘gas station experience’. A fast charger can charge most batteries nearly 80% in less than an hour, and fast chargers can deliver anywhere from 50 to 350 kW of electricity. Fast charging tends to be harder on car batteries and more expensive, so most drivers use fast chargers sparingly.
What’s the Difference?
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Drives on an electric battery-powered motor.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
Drives on an electric battery for a limited time, then the gas engine takes over when the battery is depleted.
Hybrid Vehicle
Drives on gasoline more efficiently with the help of a battery and electric motor.
The ideal battery charge is between 30 and 80%. Batteries have to work harder to charge 0-30% and from 80-100%. Not to worry! Unlike early battery technology that “learned” charging patterns, it is perfectly fine to leave your EV half charged and only “top off”, or replace what you use day to day. In fact, your battery will likely last longer if you do!
Learn more about EV charging on the US Department of Energy website!
Electric Vehicles [Image]. Maryland Department of Transportation. https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=34