What is a Level 2 EV Charging Station?
Level 2 EV Charging Station
A level 2 ev charging station is the most common type of charger that you will find in public spaces, such as airports or parking garages. They typically have a J1772 (type 1) or, in Europe, a Mennekes connector. They can be tethered, with cables that are hard-wired to the charger, or untethered with just a socket that you plug your own cable into. They can be used for overnight charging or while you’re at work, and are often the best choice for EV owners in cities like New York, where most commuters do not have a home charger.
Most EV owners get a level 1 charger from their car manufacturer at the time of purchase to use with standard 120v outlets in their home. This is adequate for charging on a day-to-day basis, but most evcome need to charge at a faster rate to maintain their range between charges.
Home level 2 EV charging stations are a great option for owners who want to reduce their dependence on gasoline and need to charge at a fast rate. Some of these chargers can also be smart, which means you can connect them to your mobile phone app and monitor your charging sessions, schedule the times that you want to charge, and more. Some even give you a rebate when you plug into their system.
The typical 240-volt, 24 amp model can produce up to about 6.0 kW of power, with the fastest units able to provide up to 19.2 kW. However, the hardware on your EV dictates the maximum level that it can accept, so be sure to choose the right unit for your needs.
What is a Level 2 EV Charging Station?
There are now more options than ever for a home Level 2 charger, including some that can be “smart,” meaning they have the ability to communicate with your smartphone. While these options may increase the upfront cost, they can help you to lower your operating costs by scheduling charges during cheaper electricity rates and more. They can also help you to qualify for certain EV incentives from your municipality or utility company.
While you can buy a home Level 2 EV charger at most automotive dealers or online, the best option is to have one professionally installed in your home by a licensed electrician. This will ensure the charger is connected to a properly-sized circuit that can handle its amperage, and it will be configured to self-manage so it doesn’t trip your circuit breaker.
As a part of our ongoing commitment to fighting climate change, NYC is working to expand public access to EV charging through our PlugNYC network. This includes Level 2 and DC fast chargers that will be available throughout the city’s five boroughs, and at many of the locations where EV drivers park their cars on the streets and curbside. For those who don’t have a home charger, or who travel outside of their home, having access to public charging is critical. This is why NYC DOT and the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability are partnering with Con Edison to install 120 public Level 2 EV chargers in the five boroughs.