how long to charge ev with 120v

How Long to Charge EV with 120V?

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as more people embrace sustainable transportation. One of the essential factors for EV owners to consider is the charging time required to top up their vehicle's battery. The charging speed depends on various factors, including the type of charger used. In this article, we will explore how long it takes to charge an EV using a 120V charger and delve into the different aspects affecting the charging time.

Understanding Charging Levels

Before we dive into the details, let's first understand the concept of charging levels when it comes to EV charging. Charging levels refer to the different voltages and amperages used in electric vehicle charging. There are three main levels:

Level 1 Charging (120V): It is the slowest charging option and typically involves plugging your EV into a regular household outlet using a standard 120-volt power source.

Level 2 Charging (240V): This option provides faster charging speeds compared to Level 1. It requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit and adds convenience to home charging stations and public charging infrastructure.

Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging): Also known as Fast Charging or Supercharging, Level 3 charging stations are high-powered chargers located at specific locations, such as charging stations on highways or public EV charging networks. These chargers use direct current (DC) and can charge an EV rapidly by bypassing the vehicle's onboard charger.

Now that we have a clearer understanding of charging levels, let's focus on how long it typically takes to charge an EV using a Level 1 charger.

Charging Time with a Level 1 Charger

A Level 1 charger, also referred to as a trickle charger, plugs into a standard 120V household outlet. The charging power is relatively low, usually around 1.4 kilowatts (kW) or 1,400 watts. This charging level comes with most electric vehicles, allowing owners to charge their EVs without the need for any additional charging infrastructure.

Due to the lower charging power, Level 1 charging is considerably slower compared to higher-level chargers. The charging time required with a 120V charger depends on various factors, including the battery size, state of charge, and the vehicle's maximum charging rate.

Factors Affecting Charging Time with a 120V Charger

It is important to note that each electric vehicle model may have different battery capacities and charging capabilities. Consequently, the charging time required with a 120V charger may vary significantly. Here are some factors that influence the charging time:

Battery Size: The battery size of an electric vehicle plays a crucial role in determining the charging duration. EVs with larger battery capacities will take longer to charge compared to those with smaller batteries. For instance, a compact electric car with a battery size of 40 kilowatt-hours (kWh) will charge faster than an SUV with a 90 kWh battery.

State of Charge: The charging time will also depend on the vehicle's state of charge (SoC) when beginning the charging process. If the battery is completely drained, it will take longer to charge compared to when the battery is partially depleted. It is important to note that charging slows down as the battery approaches full capacity to protect the battery's longevity.

Onboard Charger: The onboard charger in an electric vehicle plays a significant role in the charging process. It determines the maximum rate at which the vehicle can accept power. While Level 1 chargers typically deliver around 1.4 kW of power, some vehicles may have a lower onboard charging capacity, limiting the charging rate even further.

Charging Profiles: Different EV models have specific charging profiles encoded in their software systems. These charging profiles regulate the charging process by adjusting the charging speed at different battery levels. Some vehicles may charge faster during the initial stages of charging and gradually slow down near full capacity.

Charging Time Estimates for Level 1 Charging

As mentioned earlier, the charging time required with a 120V charger can vary depending on several factors. The following time estimates can give you a general idea, but it is essential to refer to your vehicle's specifications for accurate information:

- Compact Electric Car (e.g., Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt): Approximately 8-12 hours to fully charge from empty.

- Mid-Size Electric Car (e.g., Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric): Roughly 12-20 hours for a full charge from empty.

- Larger Electric Car/SUV (e.g., Tesla Model X, Audi e-tron): Around 20-30 hours to fully charge from empty.

Keep in mind that these estimates provide a general range and may not apply precisely to all vehicle models. Additionally, it's rare for EV owners to fully deplete their battery before charging, as most charging occurs overnight or during extended periods of non-use.

Advantages and Considerations of Level 1 Charging

While Level 1 charging may be slower compared to higher levels, it offers several advantages and considerations for EV owners:

Accessibility: Level 1 charging is the most widely accessible charging option since it requires only a standard household outlet. It eliminates the need for installing dedicated charging stations or finding Level 2 charging stations. This accessibility provides peace of mind to EV owners who may not have access to other charging options regularly.

Cost-Effective: Level 1 charging is cost-effective and requires no additional investments apart from the EV itself. Utilizing existing electrical infrastructure helps keep charging costs low. This aspect is particularly advantageous for EV owners who mainly charge their vehicles at home.

Longer Charging Time: While Level 1 charging is slower, it can be beneficial for those who don't require rapid charging speeds. If you have sufficient time between drives and overnight hours, Level 1 charging can adequately meet your needs without investing in a Level 2 charger.

Conclusion

In conclusion, charging an electric vehicle with a 120V Level 1 charger is slower compared to higher-level charging options. The charging time can range from 8 to 30 hours depending on factors such as battery size, state of charge, onboard charger capacity, and charging profiles. Despite the longer charging time, Level 1 charging offers accessibility and cost-effectiveness, making it a convenient option for many EV owners.

It is important to consider your specific vehicle's requirements and charging needs when deciding on the most suitable charging level for your EV. Consulting your vehicle's manual and manufacturer recommendations can provide accurate information and help you make an informed decision. Remember, as EV technology continues to evolve rapidly, charging speeds and infrastructure will also improve, making electric vehicles even more practical and convenient for everyone.