Charging Standards

What is meant by Level I, Level II and Level III charging?

Within the various standards for plug-in vehicles and charging stations, ChargePoint Networked Charging Stations have been grouped into three basic levels:

• Level I refers to Single Phase Alternating Current (AC) using grounded receptacles at the most commonly available voltages and currents. In North America this typically means 120V/16A using a NEMA 5-20R outlet, but in many parts of Europe it can mean up to 230V/16A. The Driver uses his or her own standard charging cord to connect the vehicle to a Level I charging station.
• Level II refers to Single or Triple Phase Alternating Current (AC) at 208-240V at up to 80A. The SAE J1772™ Document is the standard for Level II charging in North America, where the J1772 connector and charging cord are permanently fixed to the Level II charging station.
• Level III refers to DC charging, or “fast charging.” To achieve very short charging times, Level 3 chargers supply very high voltages (300-500VDC) at very high currents (100’s of Amperes).