This video covers the basics of charging an electric car. It explains the different types of chargers, how to use them, and tips for efficient charging. The video also discusses the differences between home and public charging, and how to choose the best charging option for your needs.
Charging your electric vehicle is just as easy as charging any of your everyday tech essentials. Right now, most EVs use lithium-ion battery packs. Soon, those might be replaced by lighter and more environmentally friendly solid-state batteries. To charge an EV battery, a charger can be installed at home, making charging very convenient. You can also find charging stations in many publicly accessible areas, from malls and grocery stores to office parking lots. Level 1 charging is the slowest and most inexpensive way to charge your car. For EV drivers with short local commutes, Level 1 charging is possible, but you'll want to use Level 2 for faster charging times and more convenience. Level 2 charging is great for speed and convenience when charging at home. A Level 2 charger charges at a rate of 20 to 30 miles per hour, so a full charge can take a few hours. Level 3 charging is the fastest option and is primarily used for public charging. You can generally fully charge an EV in less than an hour on a Level 3 charger. However, it is not recommended for regular use because it could cause the battery to deteriorate slightly faster. There are many ways to find a convenient charging station near you. Charge Hub, PlugShare, and the Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) all offer tools to find whichever charger you need, wherever you're located. And with more than 56,000 public EV charging stations in the U.S. and counting, there are plenty of options. As charging options grow more abundant and automakers continue to innovate, range anxiety for EV drivers will continue to recede. Thanks for watching. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get recommendations for other useful content on green cars and how they can work best for you.