This video explains the reasons why fast charging may not always be the best option for electric cars. It covers the potential drawbacks, such as battery degradation and increased costs, and provides recommendations for when to use fast charging and when to opt for slower, more gentle charging methods.
Of the 3 levels of charging you can use to charge your electric car, Level 3, or DC fast charging, is the quickest, but it comes with some drawbacks. A Level 3 charger bypasses an EV's power electronics to charge the battery at a much higher rate. That means it's not as gentle on the battery as a Level 2 charger. Over time, a battery's capacity can deteriorate, and Level 3 charging can slightly accelerate that deterioration. Researchers tested 2 pairs of Nissan LEAF EVs. Two of the cars were recharged from Level 2 chargers, while the other two were recharged at Level 3 charging stations. After 50,000 miles of testing, the cars that were charged using Level 3 charging lost 4% more of their battery capacity than the cars that were charged only on Level 2. So while the accelerated rate of deterioration may not have a massive effect, regular use of Level 3 charging does take a toll. Level 3 charging also costs more. At some public stations, you might pay about the same as gasoline for an equivalent amount of driving range. Ultimately, it's best to charge at home with a Level 2 charger. It can deliver enough to charge up your vehicle overnight, so you can depart with a full tank in the morning. Special offers and incentives for home charger installation may also be available, making it even more cost-effective to avoid depending solely on fast charging. You can use GreenCars.com to learn about chargers and even find an electrician to install your home charging station. 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.