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Charging Modes

Charging Modes of Electric Vehicles

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity worldwide, it becomes crucial for EV owners and enthusiasts to understand the different charging modes available. Electric vehicles offer various charging options to suit different needs, ranging from residential charging to fast charging on long-distance trips. In this article, we will explore the different charging modes of electric vehicles and how they cater to different charging requirements.

Table of Contents

1 . Mode 1 (AC, up to 2kW)

Level 1 charging is the most basic and accessible form of EV charging. It utilizes a standard household 120-volt AC outlet, commonly found in homes. Level 1 charging is typically accomplished using the charging cable that comes with your EV. This mode delivers a charging rate of around 2 to 5 miles of range per hour, depending on the vehicle’s battery capacity and charging efficiency. Level 1 charging is suitable for overnight charging at home or in settings where higher charging speeds are not necessary.

    Requirements :

  • Wall socket with AC
  • Power cord

   2. Mode 2 (AC, output power 3.7kW, EVSE)

EV car charging from non-dedicated alternating current socket, with the only difference EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) control box on the cord. It rectifies from AC to DC and work like circuit breaker.

The most manufacturers put it with the basic equipment for electric car now. Maximum output power is 3.7 kW for 16A socket. About 14-16 hours required for charging full battery capacity.

    Requirements :

  • Wall socket with AC
  • Power Cord with EVSE controller

 3.Mode 3 (3 phase AC, power up to 43kW, wall EVSE)

Special equipment (like wall charger) can produce 22-43 kW of charging power. Wall box convert AC from three phases to DC. Your power system requires 3-phases with output amperage 20-80A on each line.

This is the best choice for home usage. Battery will charge in 4-9 hours, but before buy external EVSE consult with specialists (what maximum power support your EV’s onboard charger and is your power system support installation).

    Requirements :

  • AC with single or three phases with output amperage 16-80A
  • Extended EVSE connected to your power system with right fuses
  • Onboard charger with support of fast charging

    4. Mode 4 (DC, power up to 800kW, Rapid charger)

The fastest way to charge your EV – use Rapid chargers’ stations (also called superchargers). Fast charging stations very expensive, that is why they almost always public. Not all electric cars support it, often is an optional feature.

Most of EV charging with maximum speed from 20 to 80 battery capacity. After that, output power and charging speed lowered by car electronic for extending life of cells. Charging time is decreased to one hour (to 80%)

    Requirements :

  • DC supercharger (rapid charger)
  • Port CCS / CHAdeMO / Tesla depending on standard, adopted by EV manufacturer
  • Support of Rapid chargers

The fastest way to charge your electric car is plug to Rapid charger (superchargers), that is designates as Mode 4, but your vehicle must support it and have right socket (like Tesla for Superchargers, CCS Combo or CHAdeMO for other charging complexes). Mode 4 feed your battery directly, without onboard charger. Also, your batteries life decreased if you always charging on Mode 4.

Model 1

Model 2

Model 3

Model 4

Current

Amperage, A

Output Power, kW

Charging speed, km/h

Current

8 A

< 2 kW

< 5

Alternating

< 16 A 

< 3.4 kW

 5 – 20

Alternating

15 A – 80 A

3.4 kW – 11.5 kW

< 60

Direct

Up to 800 A

up to 500 kW

up to 800

Best for regular use is Mode 3, but additional equipment and improved power system at your parking or home required. Speed of charging from AC depends on installed onboard chargers (for example 2018 Chevy Volt can charge at 240v 32A power systems with output power 7.68kW, when 2018 Tesla Model S can use 240v x 80A and reach out 19.2kW charging power)