Does the Charging Station Matter for EVs?
As electric vehicle rentals become increasingly popular, it’s important to understand how to get the most out of an EV. One key factor to consider is the charging station you use. Electric charging stations are popping up all over the place, and here at EV Rides, our customers want to know if the type of charging station matters. So, here is our quick guide on everything you need to know about charging your EV rental.
Types of Charging Stations
There are three types of EV charging stations: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.
Level 1 charging stations are essentially just an extension cord that plugs into a normal wall outlet and charges your car slowly over time. Level 2 chargers have their own dedicated power lines and can charge your car in as little as four to seven hours, depending on the size of the battery pack. While Level 1 chargers are generally cheaper, they tend to take much longer to charge and can’t provide as much power.
Level 3 chargers, commonly referred to as DC Fast Chargers, are the fastest type of charger available today. These chargers work by sending high-voltage electricity directly into your vehicle’s battery pack, allowing it to fill up quickly—in some cases in under 30 minutes! These are the stations you’ll find in public spaces like malls, grocery stores, or even outside your favorite retail store.
Charging Station Safety
The other thing to consider when choosing a charging station is safety. Even though all-electric cars come with their own safety features built in, using faulty or low-quality charging equipment can put you at risk. It’s important to make sure the public charger you’re using is UL-certified or has some other form of certification from an independent testing organization. Those with seals of approval from Underwriters Laboratories or ETL/Intertek are usually the best.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your EV is plugged in properly and charging before you walk away. Failure to ensure a safe and secure charging connection could cost you more money and leave you without charge.
We’ll Give You All You Need to Know
When it comes down to it, the charging station does matter for EVs—especially when it comes to safety and overall performance. But, when you’re just renting one from EV Rides, the fast, public charging ports are all you’ll need. If you still have questions about operating your Tesla Model X Plaid, Ford F150, or VW ID.4, then make sure you ask! Have questions about booking a rental from our Denver, CO, location? Call us at (877) 387-4337.