EV Charging Level Explained

Electrified vehicles are no longer simply the future, there are so many on the road today. With the many terms involved from plug-in hybrids to electric range to Charge Level I, they can certainly feel overwhelming to many drivers. At Helfman Dodge Chrysler Jeep® RAM FIAT, we’re outlining the different charging levels to help you understand how to charge an electrified vehicle.

EV Charging Levels

Different Electrified Powertrains

To understand charging, it’s important to recognize the different types of electrified powertrains. There are three main classifications:

  • Electric vehicle (EV) – uses an electric motor, which is charged by a battery
  • Plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) – uses an electric motor and an engine. You plug in to charge the vehicle’s battery, which charges the motor.
  • Hybrid vehicle – uses an electric motor and engine, although it doesn’t need to be plugged in. It uses the engine and regenerative braking to charge itself while you drive.

Charging Electrified Vehicles

While a hybrid vehicle charges itself while you drive, you have to plug in EVs and Jeep PHEVs to charge. This is done either with a portable charging cord, at an at-home charging station, or at a public charging station. A PHEV can’t withstand the same type of charging as an EV, so their charging times and capacities differ.

Charging Levels

There are three main charging levels for electrified vehicles:

  • Level 1 – a 120-volt charger that can be plugged into a standard outlet. It adds approximately three to five miles of range per hour for an EV and can charge a PHEV is about five to six hours.
  • Level 2 – a 240-volt charger can be installed by a professional at your home and are also found at most public charging stations. They can charge an EV in approximately eight hours and can charge a PHEV in about one or two hours.
  • Level 3 – also known as a DC fast charger, this is the fastest way to charge your vehicle. A Level 3 charger can charge an EV in about 30 minutes and they aren’t typically compatible with a PHEV.

Explore Our EV Inventory in Houston, TX

At our car dealership in Houston, TX, we have a diverse selection of electrified vehicles for you to peruse. We also carry an array of Jeep auto parts onsite if you need a charger, or we can also help you schedule professional installation. Reach out to get started today!