Are All Electric Car Chargers the Same?

Anchor Auto Outlet’s wide selection of outstanding used vehicles includes many EVs or plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) from a variety of brands. We’ve got some Tesla vehicles, world-class BMW EVs, stalwart Toyota PHEVs, and maybe a Chevy Bolt or two. We think you’ll love driving an EV in Raleigh because they lower your overall ownership costs with less maintenance and zero gas. 

You might be wondering, “Are all electric car chargers the same?” If you purchase an EV or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), will you need to change the charging plug later? Fortunately, nearly all electric car chargers are universal! Continue reading to get answers to all your questions about the different types of electric car chargers with Anchor Auto Outlet.

Are All Electric Car Chargers the Same for Every EV?

All EVs have the same standard plug for Level 1 and Level 2 charging, the two most common forms of charging in Cary and across the country. The only exclusive charging plug for a singular brand is the Tesla Supercharger, though adapters are available.

What Are the Different Types of Electric Car Chargers? 

There are three different types of electric car chargers in Durham to help you get the most efficient use out of your EV or PHEV. Discover more details regarding these charging levels as we continue to answer, “Are all electric car chargers the same?” You’ll easily distinguish among the different types of electric car chargers after reading our quick guide.

Level 1 Charging 

Level 1 chargers add 3 to 5 miles of range per hour. Level 1 charging is great for topping off your battery or fully charging a PHEV battery overnight because it’s the slowest type of charger. Level 1 charging isn’t recommended for drivers who drive away from home all of the time. It’s much better for commutes in and around Cary. If your EV range is 300 miles, it could take up to three or four days to fully charge the EV on Level 1 charging if the battery is nearly empty. For a PHEV with 25 miles of all-electric range, you could charge the PHEV battery in about 5 to 8 hours, which is perfect for reducing your refueling costs on short drives. 

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging adds 12 to 80 miles of range to your EV per hour. Level 2 is fantastic for running errands around town, commuting to work, and traveling to your favorite weekend getaways in the mountains, lake, or beach resort. Have a professional electrician install a special Level 2 charging box in your garage in Cary to prepare your home for an EV. Yes, this costs money upfront. But the fuel savings and convenience are well worth the cost. You could fully charge your EV overnight while you sleep in 6 to 10 hours. You’ll also find Level 2 chargers at public charging stations, such as in the parking lots of retailers, banks, and apartment complexes.

Level 3 Charging 

Level 3 charging is the quickest thanks to a charging speed of 3 to 20 miles of range per minute. Level 3 chargers utilize a direct current, which requires a much higher voltage. Level 3 chargers are only found at special public charging stations around town and on well-traveled routes in the United States. Public chargers cost money, but they are still cheaper than gasoline. They come in handy for cross-country road trips to exciting new places!

Learn More About EV Charging With Anchor Auto Outlet

Ready to appreciate EVs even more? Contact us, call 919-651-0051, or schedule a test drive with our team. We’re happy to help you prepare for your new EV!