Understanding the 3 Levels of Charging an EV

Most drivers are aware that there are a few different grades of gasoline to choose from, even if they only fill up using unleaded. On the other hand, because electric BMW cars are a relatively new phenomenon, not as many people understand the three levels of EV charging. The dealers here at BMW of Wesley Chapel are happy to explain a few things about Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 EV charging.

Level 1 Charging

Every electric BMW car or plug-in hybrid vehicle can be charged on Level 1 by plugging the charging equipment into a regular 120-volt wall outlet. Level 1 is the slowest way to charge an EV, and it adds between three and five miles of range per hour. Because of this, Level 1 tends to work better for plug-in hybrids than it does for EVs, due to the fact that EVs have much larger batteries.

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging is the most common method of charging EV vehicles like the BMW iX on a daily basis. This type of charger is also found in public locations like shopping plazas, train stations, and other destinations. Level 2 chargers can replenish between 12 and 80 miles of range per hour. A Level 2 charger can be installed at your home, but it typically requires the assistance of a professional.

Level 3 Charging

Level 3 charging is the fastest type of charging available and can recharge an EV at a rate of 3 to 20 miles of range per minute. Unlike Level 1 and 2 chargers, the Level 3 charger uses direct current (DC). Very few residential locations have the voltage necessary for a Level 3 charger.

Learn more about EV charging or get behind the wheel of an electric BMW car here at BMW of Wesley Chapel.