The convenience of home charging is one of the major perks of electric vehicle (EV) ownership. However, when it comes to whether a home charging station is included with a new EV purchase, the answer is not always straightforward. There are nuances to consider, particularly regarding the type of charger that comes with the vehicle and what additional investments might be necessary for optimal home charging. In this article, we will explore these aspects in detail, providing a comprehensive understanding of what to expect when you buy an EV.
Not Always Included with New EVs, But Level 1 Chargers Often Are
When purchasing a new electric vehicle, many buyers wonder whether a home charging station, particularly a Level 2 EV charger, is included. Generally, a dedicated home EV charger (Level 2) is not included in the base price of most new EVs. These are typically offered as separate accessories, with prices varying depending on the manufacturer and charger model.
On the other hand, many new EVs do come with a Level 1 mobile charger. This is a more basic charger that plugs into a standard 110-volt outlet, providing an immediate, albeit slower, charging option.
Level 1 Mobile Chargers: The Basic Option
Level 1 chargers are often included with the purchase of a new electric vehicle. These chargers are designed to be used with standard
household outlets, which makes them a convenient option for many EV owners. The inclusion of a Level 1 charger provides immediate access to home charging without the need for any special installations or additional purchases.
Slower Charging with Level 1
While convenient, Level 1 charging is significantly slower compared to Level 2 charging. Typically, a Level 1 charger can take upwards of 20 hours to reach an 80% charge, depending on the vehicle's battery size. This slower charging speed may not be suitable for all EV owners, particularly those who drive long distances regularly or need quick turnaround times for their vehicles.
Convenience Factor
Despite the slower charging speed, Level 1 chargers offer the advantage of being readily usable with any standard household outlet. This makes them a flexible option for occasional charging or for topping up the battery when a dedicated Level 2 EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) isn't available. However, some EV charger manufacturers like AMPROAD provides higher input adjustable current rates portable EV charger, which's offering the more flexible choice for EV users.
Why Might a Level 1 Charger Be Included?
There are several reasons why manufacturers might include a Level 1 charger with a new EV purchase:
Lower Cost: Including a Level 1 charger is a more affordable way for manufacturers to provide some charging capability with the vehicle purchase. This helps to lower the overall cost for the consumer while still providing essential functionality.
Universal Compatibility: Level 1 chargers do not require any special installation and work with any standard outlet, making them universally compatible. This ease of use ensures that new EV owners can start charging their vehicles immediately without additional setup.
Level 2 Chargers: A Valuable Investment
While a Level 1 charger may suffice for occasional or low-mileage drivers, a dedicated home EV charger (Level 2) remains a valuable investment for most EV owners. The key advantage of a Level 2 charger is its faster charging speeds, which can significantly reduce the time required to recharge an EV battery.
Faster Charging with Level 2
Level 2 EV chargers operate at a higher voltage (240 volts) compared to Level 1 chargers, which allows them to deliver more power and charge the vehicle much more quickly. Typically, a Level 2 charger can fully charge an EV battery in 4 to 6 hours, making it an ideal solution for overnight charging.
Installation Considerations
Installing a EVSE Level 2 requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit, similar to the power supply needed for large household appliances like dryers and ovens. This installation usually needs to be performed by a licensed electrician, which can add to the initial cost. However, the benefits of faster charging often outweigh these initial expenses for many EV owners.
The Role of EVCS (Electric Vehicle Charging Stations) in Public and Home Charging
In addition to home charging options, public EVCS play a crucial role in the overall charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. Public charging stations can be found at various locations, including shopping centers, workplaces, and highway rest stops, providing EV owners with additional charging options when away from home.
Home Charging vs. Public Charging
While public EVCS are essential for long trips and for those without access to home charging, having a reliable home charging setup is often more convenient and cost-effective. Home charging allows EV owners to take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, potentially leading to significant cost savings over time.
Future-Proofing Your Home Charging Setup
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, the technology and infrastructure surrounding EV charging are also evolving. Investing in a robust home charging setup now can help future-proof your home for the years to come.
Scalable Solutions
When selecting a home EV charger, it is important to consider scalability. Some Level 2 chargers offer adjustable current settings, which can be beneficial if you plan to upgrade to a vehicle with a larger battery capacity in the future. Ensuring that your home electrical system can support higher power levels can also make future upgrades smoother and more cost-effective.
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Deciding whether to stick with the included Level 1 charger or invest in a dedicated Level 2 home EV charger depends on your individual needs and driving habits. For many EV owners, the convenience and faster charging speeds of a Level 2 charger make it a worthwhile investment. However, the inclusion of a Level 1 charger provides a basic and universally compatible option for those who may not be ready to make the investment in a Level 2 EVSE immediately.
When considering the purchase of an electric vehicle, it is essential to do your research on the available charging options. Consider your typical driving patterns, the availability of public charging stations, and the potential cost savings of home charging. By understanding the differences between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, and the benefits of each, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
In closing, while a home charging station (Level 2) is generally not included with the purchase of a new EV, a Level 1 mobile charger often is. This basic charging option can be convenient for those who do not drive long distances daily or for those who need an immediate charging solution. However, for most EV owners, investing in a Level 2 home EV charger is a valuable decision that offers faster charging speeds and greater convenience, making the transition to electric vehicle ownership even more seamless.