Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The J1772 is a common Level 2 EV charger, offering faster charging than Level 1 chargers
- Fast charging typically refers to Level 3 chargers, which charge even faster than J1772 connectors
- Charging speed decreases when the battery reaches around 80% to protect battery life and prevent overheating.
Is A J1772 A Fast Charger?
The J1772, or the SAE J1772 Standard, is commonly used for providing power in Level 2 charging stations in North America. Using a 240V power source, these Level 2 charging stations can provide approximately 40-60 miles of range per hour of charging. While this connector does offer faster charging than Level 1 options, it is not as fast as the DC fast charging connectors.
It is important to note that the J1772 connector itself is not the actual charger, but rather, it is responsible for supplying AC power to your electric car’s onboard charger. With its voltage range from 120V to 240V, charging speeds can vary depending on the power source used.
But how does the J1772 connector compare to other charging options?
For a quick comparison, Level 1 charging generally uses a grounded three-prong plug and a 120V outlet, which offers slower charging rates than Level 2 with J1772. For faster charging, you may look into DC charging, such as the Combined Charging System (CCS) or CHAdeMO, which offer much higher power output and quicker charging times.
In conclusion, the J1772 connector is not the fastest charging option available, but it’s a significant improvement over Level 1 charging. Not quite a fast charger in comparison to the industry’s latest offerings, but it is still a reliable and convenient charging solution for the majority of electric vehicle owners in North America.
How Fast is a J1772 Charger
The J1772 charging standard supports single-phase alternating current (AC) charging rates, which range from portable devices that can connect to a household outlet to hardwired equipment delivering up to 19.2 kW. Most Level 2 chargers with the J1772 connector can give your EV around 40-60 miles of range per hour.
Typically, Level 1 chargers use a 120V power source and provide around 1.44 kW, while Level 2 chargers use a more powerful 240V source, providing approximately 10 miles of range per hour, depending on your EV’s onboard charger and the charging station’s capabilities.
The speed at which your EV charges also depends on factors such as the battery’s overall health and temperature.
What is Fast Charging EV Charger
Fast charging chargers supply power directly to your EV’s battery, bypassing the need for onboard chargers that convert AC power to DC. With fast charging, your EV battery receives DC power, which enables it to charge more quickly compared to traditional AC charging methods.
There are several types of fast chargers for electric cars, each with its unique compatibility and charging process. Some common types include CHAdeMO, developed mostly for Asian vehicles. And the Combined Charging System (CCS), which can quickly charge vehicles equipped with this technology and widely used in North America.
Although J1772 chargers can deliver up to 19.2 kW with a split-phase 208V-240V plug, it might not be labeled as a fast charger, you’ll still enjoy faster charging times than a Level 1 charger would offer.
DC fast chargers, on the other hand, are sometimes known as public charging stations and can significantly reduce charging times. These chargers are often found in commercial areas and along highways, making them quite convenient for those who need a quick recharge.
However, fast chargers may not always deliver fast charging speeds throughout the entire charging process. This is because the charging speed diminishes as the battery reaches its capacity to protect the battery and optimize its lifespan. Thus, you may notice that your EV charges rapidly at first, then slows down as it approaches a full charge.
Why Do Fast Chargers Stop Fast Charging
Sometimes, you might notice that fast chargers stop fast charging, and there can be various reasons for this occurrence. One possible cause could be a damaged charging cable. If the cable has visible signs of wear and tear or damage, it may not facilitate the fast charging process effectively. Always inspect your charging cable and replace it when necessary to ensure a seamless charging experience.
In some cases, the issue might be due to an incompatible fast charger. Different electric vehicles may require specific types of fast chargers, and using one that does not match your vehicle’s requirements can result in slower charging speeds. Always verify that the fast charger you’re using is compatible with your electric car to avoid such issues.
Another factor that may affect the charging speed is high battery usage by the device. When your electric vehicle is consuming a significant amount of power while charging (for instance, due to climate control systems or other accessories), the charging rate may decrease. To optimize charging speeds, try to minimize power consumption by turning off unnecessary features when your car is plugged in.
Lastly, fast chargers may not always deliver fast charging speeds throughout the entire charging process. This is because the charging speed diminishes as the battery reaches its capacity to protect the battery and optimize its lifespan. Thus, you may notice that your EV charges rapidly at first, then slows down as it approaches a full charge.
How Long Does a Fast Charge Take On a Tesla
When you’re on the road and need to charge your Tesla quickly, you’ll likely turn to a Supercharger. These DC charging stations offer the fastest charging option, allowing your Tesla to gain up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. This speed makes them ideal for those times when you’re away from home and need a quick energy boost for your car.
While Superchargers are incredibly fast, it’s important to note that the charging speed can vary based on various factors, such as your car’s battery state, temperature, and the power output of the charging station. Nonetheless, they provide a significantly faster charge than their Level 2 AC charging counterparts like the J1772 connector.
During a fast charging session at a Supercharger, expect the charge to be quickest at the beginning and then taper off as your battery becomes fuller. This is because the charging process tends to slow down when your battery reaches around 80% to protect the battery’s health and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a charger fast charging?
Fast charging is determined by the power output, measured in kilowatts (kW), and the charger’s ability to transfer that power to the car’s battery efficiently. The higher the power output, the faster the charging process. Fast chargers typically have a power output of around 50 kW or more, translating to significantly shorter charging times compared to standard chargers like the J1772.
Are there different levels of charging?
Yes, there are three main levels of charging available for electric vehicles:
Level 1 chargers, use a standard AC wall outlet and deliver around 1.3 kW to 2.4 kW of power. These chargers are the slowest and can take up to 24 hours to fully charge an electric vehicle.
Level 2 chargers are faster, providing power in the range of 3.7 kW to 22 kW. These chargers use a 240V current and can fully charge an electric vehicle within 4 to 8 hours.
Level 3 chargers, also known as DC Fast Chargers or Superchargers, are the quickest option for EV charging. They have a power output of 50 kW or more, and can charge an electric vehicle up to 80% within 30 minutes to an hour. However, fast-charging capabilities depend on the specific car model and its battery capacity.
Please note that charging times may vary depending on various factors such as battery capacity, charger compatibility, and current state of charge.