If you have an EV or want one, keeping it charged is essential. However, charging an EV typically takes longer than refueling an internal combustion vehicle. Here’s what you need to know to understand your charging options and how long they take.

A Word on Battery Capacity

Before we dive in, it’s important to know that there’s no one-size-fits-all guide for EV charge times. Different EVs have different battery capacities and characteristics. The information discussed here will only provide ballpark charge time estimates. It’s important to consult your EV owner’s manual for more specific charging information.

Level 1 EV Charging

The most basic way to charge an EV is to plug its charge cable into a standard 120-volt outlet. That’s what’s known as Level 1 charging. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charger cable as standard equipment. Unfortunately, Level 1 charging is the slowest way to charge an EV. It can take between 40 and 50 hours to charge a typical EV battery to 80% from a fully discharged state.

Level 2 EV Charging

If you’re planning on installing a dedicated EV charger, it will likely be a Level 2 model. Level 2 chargers operate at 240 volts and require dedicated, high-amperage circuits. That enables them to charge connected EVs far faster than a standard outlet could. You can expect a Level 2 EV charger to charge a typical EV battery to 80% between 4 and 10 hours. In most cases, leaving your EV connected to a Level 2 charger overnight will result in a full charge by morning.

DC Fast EV Charging

If you’ve seen public fast EV chargers like those on Tesla’s Supercharger network, you likely know they’re faster than home chargers. They rely on direct current (DC), which is what every battery naturally stores. Avoiding the need to convert from alternating current (AC) to DC speeds up charging significantly. DC fast chargers also operate on 480-volt, three-phase electrical service. Some operate at power levels far higher than even the most powerful Level 2 chargers.

Thanks to the extra power, DC fast chargers can charge a typical EV to 80% capacity in as little as 20 minutes. There are some caveats, however. No matter the supercharger’s output capacity, your vehicle’s maximum charging rate will remain the same. Most EVs can’t charge at anywhere near a high-end supercharger’s top speed. Plus, the higher power input can add significant wear on your EV battery, shortening its useful life. That’s a big reason why many public chargers still use Level 2 charging.

Charging your EV is most convenient when you install a Level 2 charger at home. Now that you know all the available options, you can make the best decision possible on how to proceed. If you live in Modesto, CA or a surrounding area and need EV charger services, make your first call to The Electric Company.