What is EV charging station and what are there types?

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electric vehicle charging stations

The advantages of electric automobiles are nearly unlimited. They are less expensive to operate than traditional automobiles that run on gasoline or diesel. Electric vehicle maintenance is also less expensive since it requires less upkeep and does not require expensive car equipment such as a radiator or a starting motor. Many people assume that a domestic power outlet is sufficient to charge an electric car, while others feel that a vehicle charging station is required — here’s the reality.

Types of electric charging

Level-1 EV Charging (120 Volts)

Level-1 charging provides 120 volts and can be accomplished using a power cord and the control box that comes standard with most electric vehicles. Level-1 charging is simple and may be done at home. Level-1 EV chargers require no installation and may be simply plugged in. Level 1 electric vehicle charging stations only takes charging a 60-kWh car takes around 16-18 hours.

Level-2 EV Charging

Level-2 electric vehicle charging equipment provides currents of up to 240V AC and necessitates the installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and high-voltage power lines. The amount of time it takes to charge a battery is determined by its capacity and the rate at which it is charged. Level-2 chargers charge vehicles substantially quicker than Level-1 chargers; a 7 kW EV charger takes 7 to 8 hours to charge a 60-kWh car. Level-2 chargers are suitable for usage in the household or commercial settings such as houses and flats, small offices, hotels, and retail outlets.

Level-3 EV Charging (480 Volts)

Level 3 EV charging, commonly known as DC fast charging, can charge eligible vehicles up to 80% in 30 minutes. Level 3 chargers convert high voltage alternating current (AC) electricity into direct current (DC) power for direct storage in EV batteries. DC rapid charging is intended primarily for public charging stations. When compared to level 1 and level 2 EV chargers, these systems are relatively pricey. Using DC (level-3) charging, it takes around 20 to 30 minutes to recharge an electric car. Commercial applications for DC (level-3) EV chargers include car fleets and public transportation, such as electric buses, which require quick charging and can accept a large number of vehicles at the same time.

Conclusion

It is also critical to examine the range of the electric car after an hour of charging. The efficiency of an electric vehicle is not just determined by the amount of power it acquires from the charging station; it is also affected by external conditions such as traffic, temperature, acceleration, and others. The car can travel between 15 and 30 miles on 3 to 7 KWh of stored energy (in the battery). 1 AC level 2 charger can provide this amount of charge in an hour. Rather than charging their electric vehicles from empty to full, EV owners choose to do a top-up charge. A top-up charge occurs when the car is charged to its full capacity without waiting for the battery to charge.