Power Supply and Installation
- Level 1 chargers use a standard household 120-volt outlet. They usually come included with a new EV and don’t require special installation.
- Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet, similar to what is used by electric clothes dryers. Installing a Level 2 charger usually needs a certified electrician and may require upgrading your home’s electrical panel or circuits.
Charging Speed and Range Added
- Level 1 chargers provide about 4 miles of driving range per hour of charging, with a typical output of 1.3 to 2.4 kW AC current. It can take around 20 hours to add roughly 124 miles of range and up to 43 hours for a full charge of about 249 miles, making it suitable mainly for overnight charging or low daily mileage needs.
- Level 2 chargers have a higher power output, ranging from 3 kW to nearly 20 kW AC current, and can add about 20 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. This means a full charge overnight or about five hours to add 124 miles, making them much faster and more practical for regular use without range anxiety.
Efficiency
- Level 1 chargers typically have around 80% charging efficiency, meaning some energy is lost during charging.
- Level 2 chargers are more efficient at around 90%, transferring more energy effectively into the vehicle’s battery.
Summary Table
| Feature | Level 1 Charger | Level 2 Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 120 volts | 240 volts |
| Power Output | 1.3 – 2.4 kW AC | 3 – 20 kW AC |
| Charging Speed | ~4 miles range per hour | 20 – 30 miles range per hour |
| Time for 124 miles Range | ~20 hours | ~5 hours |
| Efficiency | ~80% | ~90% |
| Installation | Plug into standard outlet | Requires electrician and potentially panel upgrade |
| Typical Use | Emergency or low-range daily commute | Regular daily charging, no range anxiety |
In summary, Level 2 chargers offer significantly faster charging speeds and higher efficiency compared to Level 1 chargers, but they require specialized electrical setup and are typically purchased separately from the vehicle. Level 1 chargers are convenient for occasional use or low mileage needs since they use standard household outlets.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-differences-between-level-1-and-level-2-chargers/
