Charge Using a Regular Wall Socket (Level 1)

1 Hour of Charging ~ 8 km of Driving Range  

All EV models come standard with a portable cord-set that lets you charge using any standard household outlet. This is called Level 1 charging and is the slowest speed of charging, but ensures that no matter where you are, you can always recharge.

 

If you are driving a plug-in hybrid, it is possible that Level 1 charging is all you really need. Level 1 will fully recharge most plug-in hybrids on the market over-night.

Charge Using an EV Charging Station (Level 2)

1 Hour of Charging ~ 35 km of Driving Range  

The most common way to charge. This is called Level 2 and most EV drivers will install a Level 2 charging station at home. All electric cars and charging stations sold in North America use the same plug standard, which means any car can use any Level 2 station across Canada and the United States.

   

Level 2 stations have similar electrical requirements to a clothes dryer or stove (240 Volts/30 Amps). In most jurisdictions, a licensed electrical contractor (not an electrician) is required to install them.

Tips for Purchasing a Home Charger!

Before You Buy...

Safety First: An EV charging station is a high voltage appliance that needs to be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. In most cases, you also need to obtain a permit and get a safety inspection. Electrical Service: Most charging stations operate at 220 Volts and 30 Amps, which is similar to a clothes dryer or stove. Your home's electrical service may need to be upgraded to accommodate your charging station. Location: Most charging stations come with either a 20 ft. or 25 ft. cord and cord extensions are not readily available. Make sure that the cord will reach from where you install your station to your car's charging port.

The Best Time to Charge

The Best Time to Charge is at Night when the Cost of Electricity is Lowest Many jurisdictions offer "peak-pricing" on electricity. This means that electricity is more expensive during the day when the demand is highest and less expensive during the night when the demand is lowest. This is excellent news for EV drivers because during the night is also the most convenient time to charge. Get home, plug-in and wake-up to a full battery of low-cost electricity.

Finding an Electrician