Level 1 Charging
Level 1 charging is the most basic method for charging electric vehicles, utilizing a voltage of 120V. This type of charging typically involves a standard household outlet, with a charging power of approximately 1.4kW, resulting in a relatively slow charging speed. However, Level 1 charging offers a convenient solution, as it can use existing household electrical systems without requiring additional electrical modifications. Users simply need to plug the electric vehicle’s charging cable into a 120V household outlet to start charging. Despite its slower charging speed, Level 1 charging can often provide sufficient power during overnight charging sessions for users with modest daily driving distances. This charging mode, with its lower power output and slower speed, is typically suitable for short-distance driving or charging in residential, office, and similar settings.
The PSAC-01-0116 portable AC charger operates with both input and output voltages of 120V, and its maximum current can reach 16A, resulting in a maximum output power of 1.92kW. This product allows for output power adjustment through four different current levels, making it adaptable to a wider range of power outlets. The portable AC charger is compact and lightweight, making it convenient for users to carry in their vehicles for timely recharging.
For example, considering the Nissan Leaf with a battery capacity of 40kWh, if the battery is fully depleted, it would take approximately 21 hours to fully charge using the PSAC-01-0116 charger with Level 1 charging. However, if only a partial recharge is needed each day, such as to cover a daily driving distance of 30km, which requires about 8 kWh of electricity, it would take approximately 4.2 hours of Level 1 charging. This can be easily accomplished during overnight charging.
Level 2
Level 2 charging refers to the method of charging electric vehicles using a 240V. Due to the use of 240V, Level 2 charging typically requires professional electrical installation to ensure safety and charging efficiency. Compared to Level 1 charging, Level 2 charging offers higher power, usually ranging from 3.3kW to 19.2kW, resulting in significantly faster charging speeds.
The PSAC-02-AU-0732 AC charger is equipped with both input and output voltages of 240V, delivering an output current of 32A and an output power of 7.6kW. This device can be installed in both indoor and outdoor environments, either as a wall-mounted unit or on a pedestal. The charging gun and enclosure boast protection ratings of IP67 and IP54, respectively, ensuring robust protection and charging safety. Furthermore, the charger can be controlled through a mobile app, which provides comprehensive charging data details. For commercial users, the charger supports an optional OCPP1.6J protocol, enhancing the efficiency of charging management.
Level 3
DC Fast Charging (Level 3): This charging mode utilises high-voltage direct current (typically ranging from 500V to 1000V) to deliver power, with charging capacities reaching 60kW to 350kW or even higher. This mode provides exceptionally rapid charging speeds, capable of replenishing up to 80% of a battery’s capacity within approximately 30 minutes. It is ideally suited for long-distance travel or for use in motorway service areas and fast-charging stations.
Level 3, often referred to as DC Fast Charging (DCFC), represents a high-power charging method capable of replenishing electric vehicles in a short time frame. Level 3 chargers typically operate within a voltage range of 400V to 1000V, delivering charging power from 50kW up to 350kW or even higher. As a result, Level 3 chargers can provide approximately 80% of an electric vehicle’s battery capacity within 30 minutes, making them essential for long-distance travel and quick energy top-ups. They are widely utilised in motorway service areas, urban fast-charging stations, commercial venues, and public car parks.
Level 3 chargers deliver direct current (DC) directly to the electric vehicle’s battery, bypassing the onboard charger, thereby achieving significantly faster charging speeds compared to alternating current (AC) charging methods. The charging interfaces and standards vary by region and automotive brand, with common standards including CHAdeMO, CCS (Combined Charging System), and Tesla Superchargers.
Pansen’s PSDC-05 is a Level 3 charger capable of delivering an output power range of 60-240kW. It has also been certified by SGS for CE compliance.
Globally, there is an accelerated effort to develop Level 3 charging infrastructure in response to the rapid growth of the electric vehicle market and the increasing demand for fast charging solutions. With continuous technological advancements, both charging power and efficiency are progressively improving.
Level 4
Ultra Fast Charging (Level 4+): This charging mode utilises higher voltages and greater charging power, typically exceeding 350kW. It offers extremely rapid charging speeds, capable of replenishing over 80% of the battery within minutes, making it suitable for scenarios requiring ultra-fast charging. Level 4+ charging technology is pushing the limits of electric vehicle charging speeds, bringing them closer to the refuelling times of conventional petrol vehicles. These chargers operate with exceedingly high voltages (800V and above) and currents, providing a significantly faster charging experience for electric vehicles. Currently, this charging mode is being progressively deployed and applied.
A prime example is the Porsche Taycan, which features an 800-volt battery system. When utilising a 350kW ultra-fast charger, it can achieve an 80% charge in less than 20 minutes. This ultra-fast charging technology not only significantly reduces charging time but also enhances the practicality of electric vehicles for long-distance journeys.
Currently, Level 4+ charging technology remains in the early stages of development and deployment, primarily utilised in some high-end electric vehicles and specific charging networks. For instance, companies like Ionity and Tesla have begun introducing higher-power charging stations within their networks to enhance user experience. Additionally, the construction of charging infrastructure in markets such as China, Europe, and North America is accelerating to meet the future demands of the electric vehicle market.
In terms of policy, many national and regional governments are actively supporting the development of ultra-fast charging technology. For example, the European Union is promoting the construction of charging infrastructure through the Green Deal, aiming to install one million charging stations by 2030. China, in its New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Plan, emphasises the importance of charging infrastructure and has set forth goals to accelerate the construction of high-power charging stations.
