There is a lot of jargon associated with electric vehicle (EV) charging. You may have heard of multiple “levels” of EV charging, as well as words like “quick” or “rapid” charging. The electricity current is another key consideration for EV charging. Electric vehicle charging stations charge EVs with both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). Continue reading to learn about the distinctions between the two forms of electricity, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla were creating the sorts of electric power we use today towards the start of the twentieth century. Edison promoted direct current power, which became the world's standard for electricity. Tesla invented alternating current power to overcome some of the difficulties that DC brought.
Because so much of our power system is based on transferring and converting alternating current (AC), it is an excellent starting point for EV charging. AC electricity has certain restrictions, including speed and stability. DC infrastructure, on the other hand, is less common, but with strong contemporary batteries like those used in EVs, DC electricity is finding a place in our modern society.
Ironically, in terms of power grid uses, AC power eventually became recognized as the safest kind of electric power. We don't have really high voltages flowing in our houses and businesses because we can simply change voltages using transformers. AC power is also widely available, and charging stations may frequently take advantage of existing power infrastructure. Furthermore, because many EV manufacturers advocate reducing the frequency of DC charging, AC power is regarded as safer for regular usage when charging EV batteries.
Because the current is alternating, this sort of power can lose electricity as it travels over long distances. Another reason the electricity grid employs transformers: is so power providers can deliver power over long distances without experiencing significant power loss by increasing the voltage to extremely high levels. The AC also causes slower power transmission, at least at the lower voltages we use in everyday applications. For EVs, this means that AC charging is slower than DC charging.
Edison would most likely be overjoyed that direct current is once again popular. Because of the steady flow of current, DC power is more reliable, and as technology advances, firms will be able to transport DC power across longer distances with even less electrical loss than AC power. In terms of EV charging stations, DC power is also a speedier kind of electricity.
The biggest disadvantage of DC electricity is the resulting lack of infrastructure. Because the power infrastructure still depends predominantly on alternating current (AC), DC charging is less common, particularly in smaller-scale applications. However, thanks to firms like EV Connect, DC charging is now more accessible than ever. As previously stated, there is significant controversy about how frequently EV owners should charge their vehicles using DC power, and most manufacturers advise against daily DC charging.
There are three types of EV charging that are regularly used. The levels (1, 2, and 3) largely correspond to how quickly the charger can charge an EV battery.
The first level is simply regular electricity: AC power outlets in homes and workplaces may charge your EV. Level 1 electricity is affordable and widely available; nevertheless, it is the slowest way to charge a car, and for most drivers who routinely use an EV, it is not a practical option.
AC level 2 charging is the most often used method for powering EVs. This power is still based on ordinary alternating current, but it employs a transformer to boost the voltage and speed with which level 2 can charge an EV. Level 2 charging is an excellent choice for residences, multi-unit dwellings, and other businesses since the speed of these chargers is sufficient for the majority of EV drivers.
Level 3 charging, often known as "fast charging" (DCFC) or "rapid charging" (DCRC), is the quickest way to power an EV. Despite the higher initial setup and building costs, the reliability of DC power in level 3 charging may recharge an empty EV battery in as little as 30 minutes. Level 3 chargers are an excellent choice for gas stations along important routes such as interstates.
