How Long Does It Take To Charge an Electric Car at a Charging Station?

The future of automotive design is here-and it's turning every drive into a clean and satisfying adventure. Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing what it means to drive with pure battery power and give a futuristic flair to trips in Detroit, West Bloomfield, and Northville, Michigan.  If you're looking to join the fun, you likely will want to be prepared. That's where we come in.

Our team is here to help you answer the question, "How long does it take to charge an electric car at a charging station?" These convenient public points are great for EV drivers who are constantly on the go or planning an epic road trip. LaFontaine Volvo of Farmington Hills will help you learn what to anticipate from these stations as you plan for your next electric car.

What Kinds of Chargers Are There?

Although all EVs run exclusively on electric power, there are different ways to get that power flowing into the battery. These range from standard wall outlets to the specialized chargers you see in public. More of these specialized chargers are being installed every day throughout the country.

Level 1 equipment refers to common electrical outlets. These are the same electric outlets found throughout your home, where you plug in lamps, computers, and other everyday things.

Level 2 charging offers a higher voltage upgrade that provides more power flow.

Finally, Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) stations offer the fastest charge rates. These specially designed charge points offer voltages up to eight times more than traditional wall outlets. DCFC plugs range from 50 to 350 kW output, compared to the simple 1 kW from a standard outlet.

Electric Vehicle Station Charge Times

As you can see, DCFC charging stations are hyper-capable devices that unlock more potential from electric cars. You can have these installed in your home to have high-efficiency convenience every day. It's a speedy process that lets you stay on top of your busy schedule.

Depending on the different factors at play, a DCFC charge station can charge an EV in 20 minutes to one hour. The speed of this charge provides the range you need to continue throughout your day. Supplying hundreds of miles in driving range in minutes is a truly impressive display of electric power.

What Affects Electric Car Charge Times?

There are different variables that can affect your car's charge time at a station. The weather is a common factor-cold temperatures can slow the charging process. The battery size and how much charge it has when you begin will also play a role in charge time. Finally, certain batteries and charge points have maximum rates at which charging takes place.

Shop for an Electric Vehicle Today

Now that you see how easy it is to keep your electric car charged in Detroit, West Bloomfield, and Northville, MI, you can start taking the first steps toward driving your own. Contact us at LaFontaine Volvo of Farmington Hills and schedule an EV test drive today.