To replenish the electricity in the battery that allows an EV to drive, EVs need to be plugged in and charged.
Most EV drivers charge their vehicles to about 80% of the full battery capacity. This is because charging speed slows down significantly for that final 20% of battery charging in part to protect the battery from degrading its ability to store electricity. EV drivers also tend to charge their car once the car hits 20% of its battery capacity. This also helps slow battery degradation.
The chargers EV drivers use are grouped into three different levels to reflect the amount of power used and the speed at which they can charge the vehicle.
| Charger Level | Charge Time (20% to 80% battery) | Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 40-50 hours | This is the level of charging that can be done at home with a standard outlet (120 volt) and the cable that most EVs come equipped with. |
| Level 2 | 4-10 hours | This level of charging can also be done at home with a 240 volt outlet (the same kind that a dryer plugs into). Level 2 charging is also the most common type of public charging. |
| Direct Current Fast Charging (Level 3) | 20-90 minutes | This is the fastest type of charging with the biggest variability in power levels and plug configurations. These chargers are almost exclusively used for public charging and fleet charging. |
Most EV charging happens at home because it is more convenient and often cheaper. However, for longer trips, EV drivers can access a network of public chargers across the state and country.
Charging at Home
If you drive 40 miles or less on an average day, your EV should charge back up to full overnight on a Level 1 charger or charging plug that comes with the vehicle plugged into a regular home outlet. If you drive more than that on a regular basis, investing in a faster Level 2 charger can help ensure that your EV gets charged overnight.
Be sure to check in with your electric utility, as they may have programs and incentives to help you install an EV charger and use lower cost electricity through time-of-use rates. You can get help finding your utility’s EV charging programs at MNCharging.Org.
Charging On The Go
If you’re planning a road trip, or do not have access to charging at your home, you can access the public charging network in the state and across the country. Most public chargers are Level 2 or a DC fast charger, which typically bill users by the amount of energy used or how long the charger is used for. Under a recently passed state law, public charging stations that sell electricity by the kilowatt hour will be subject to inspection in the coming years to ensure accurate labeling, supply of electricity, and advertising of prices.
Using an app like Plugshare, or the car’s own GPS system, you can figure out where your nearest charger is or plan a route to your destination that keeps you charged along the way. If you intend to use DC fast chargers, you will want to make sure you’re using the right charger plug for your car. Learn more about the different types of charging plugs from ElectricForAll.org.