What Are the Different Methods of Charging an Electric Vehicle?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity, and sales are projected to continue rising, with an estimate of around 10 million purchases by 2025. The innovative technology that goes into the design of these cars makes them an attractive prospect, so it’s no wonder people are showing interest. However, before using an EV, it’s crucial to know how to charge the car.
Blink home chargers and public charging stations are among the most convenient methods of keeping your EV charged. Blink even offers a user-friendly Blink Charging Mobile App that gives you access to the Blink Network. We consider the different types of charging systems and how Blink incorporates these systems and it is something you should know!
Types of Charging Systems
There are a wide variety of options you can use when charging your EV. Blink offers powerful charging solutions for your home or workplace, but what are all of the options available? Let’s first consider the differences in charging in electrical currents.
AC
AC Charging, or Alternating Current, generally refers to the electrical current you use when charging at your home or AC public charging stations. This method uses a wall box you can install in your homes like the Blink HQ 200 or a public charging station like the Blink IQ 200. The onboard inverter in your EV then changes the electricity coming from the charger from AC to DC, which can be stored in your battery. Level 1 or Level 2 chargers use AC electricity to charge your vehicle slower than DC fast chargers, but for a reduced cost for power and generate a reduced load on the electrical grid.
Level 1 chargers use a 15A circuit and a standard 120V wall socket to charge to add an estimated 2-5 miles of range to your vehicle per hour. Level 2 chargers use up to a 100A circuit and a single phase 240V of power to offer charging speeds of up to 19.2 kW, adding an estimated 40-65 miles of range to your vehicle per hour. Level 1 cords are sometimes included with your vehicle, but upgrading to a Level 2 charger should be the priority.
DC
Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) is just as the name says, FAST! This technology is becoming more and more widely available to the public. This method bypasses the onboard inverter in your vehicle, leading to higher currents and faster charging times. These stations offer speeds ranging from 30kW to ultra-fast stations offering up to 360 kW. On average, you can charge your electric vehicle from 20% to 80% charge within 40 minutes. Blink offers multiple DC Fast Chargers to fit any location’s needs.
Several charging stations are found in public parking lots near shopping centers, government buildings, or street-side retail centers. These stations often have a CHAdeMO (Charge de Move) or CCS (Combined Charging System) plug used to charge most vehicles. The different plugs aren’t interchangeable, so using the Blink Charging Mobile App is always a good idea to check whether the charging station has a plug compatible with your EV.
Wireless
While these charging systems are still in development and not mainstream, they are being explored further. The basis of the Wireless Charge system is a charging pad plugged into an AC wall box that uses electromagnetic waves to charge your car. However, the current is still low, with capabilities recorded of up to 11 kW.
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative Braking isn’t an official way to charge your EV entirely, but it’s worth better understanding. Many EVs now utilize regenerative braking, which is when the EV converts energy from braking into electricity to charge the battery as you’re driving. Different levels of regenerative braking determine how much power is converted and how high the electric current that travels to your battery. This can add a few miles of range to your vehicle on your regular commute depending on the distance and driving habits, but free power and more range is always welcome!
Blink Charging
Blink Charging offers EV drivers and location owners a variety of charging solutions. A vast list of products on offer ensures there are solutions for both home and public charging, and multiple options specific to the application and business case. The products are designed to work with all EVs, whether you drive a Hyundai Ioniq 5, a Chevy Bolt EUV, or a Tesla (requires a Tesla adapter).
Blink has created the Blink Network, a market-leading technology that adds incredible value to a location host’s EV charging stations. The Blink Network adds the capability for a host to manage their charger remotely, set customizable pricing options, and view detailed reports for all their chargers in one place.
Blink aims to make EV charging more accessible globally, developing charging infrastructure and advanced equipment that can be readily added to any location. Below, we look at different ways to charge your electric vehicle.
Home Charging
As stated before, home charging takes longer, as it transfers electricity at a slower rate. Level 1 charging is commonly known as “Trickle Charging”. It is a slow-charge method that will not fill your car but will add a few miles while you are visiting a friend or without access to a faster charger. While it usually doesn’t require any additional equipment, as the cable with a standard 120V plug comes with your EV, it can cause problems with your electricity bill and outlets, so it’s not always recommended.
Using a dedicated residential EV charger is the best at-home charging method, as it can minimize costs and is many times faster than Level 1 charging. Products like the Blink HQ 200 ensure you can fully charge your car in an estimated six hours, whereas a Level 1 charger could take you 30 or more hours.
Public Charging
While charging your EV at home is incredibly convenient and cost-effective, Level 2 and DCFC stations are available in public locations you already visit. Charge your car on a public Level 2 charging station while grocery shopping or while exploring the mall.
If charging at home isn’t an option, save time and money by using Level 2 charging stations in locations you already frequent, leaving the faster (and more expensive) DCFC for times when you need to get back on the road quickly.
It is essential to use DC Fast Charging stations when making long road trips. Who wants to sit and wait 6 hours to charge on a restaurant bench? That is why legislation is incentivizing more locations near highways and high-trafficked roadways to add DCFCs and make long-range EV road trips more convenient.
Don’t leave home without the Blink Charging Mobile App! Quickly search for chargers in your area, whether a charging station is compatible with your EV, how long it’ll take to charge your car, and whether it’s currently available for use.
Drive Your EV Without Worries
Electric vehicles represent the future of the automotive industry, providing ground-breaking technology and more cost-effective solutions across the board. EV adoption rates are skyrocketing, so it’s vital to understand how you can charge your EV. Like a gas car running on gas, having access to a charging station is required, but imagine rarely having to go to a place only to fuel your vehicle.
These charging stations can be located in your home or in public, with Blink supplying both types. Blink offers home chargers that make it easy and convenient to charge overnight, or when your car would normally be parked at home. Blink also offers DC fast charging stations across the country, reducing any anxiety or hesitancy you may have to go electric
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Revolutionizing the Way We Drive: Exploring the Latest Advances in EV Charging Technology
Electric Vehicle (EV) charging technology refers to the systems and processes used to charge electric vehicles. With the Rapid increase in popularity of electric vehicles as a clean energy solution, the need for efficient and effective EV charging technology is more critical than ever. This technology is essential to support the transition to clean energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality in urban areas.
EV charging technology refers to the methods and systems used to charge electric vehicles (EVs). EVs rely on batteries to store energy, which is used to power the vehicle’s electric motor. To recharge the battery, EVs need to be connected to a charging station or other charging infrastructure.
There are different types of technologies available, depending on the charging speed and the level of power required. Here are the most common types of EV charging technologies:
Level 1 Charging:
This is the slowest type of charging. It is using a standard 120-volt household outlet. Level 1 charging is typically for overnight charging at home and provides around 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging.
Level 2 Charging:
This type of charging uses a 240-volt outlet and provides faster charging speeds than Level 1. Level 2 charging stations are typically found in public charging locations. Such as parking garages, shopping centers, and workplaces. They can provide around 10-25 miles of range per hour of charging.
DC Fast Charging:
Also known as Level 3 charging, DC fast charging provides the fastest charging speeds and can provide up to 80% of the battery’s capacity in as little as 30 minutes. DC fast charging stations are typically found along highways and major travel routes, and they use a high-powered DC charger to rapidly charge the battery.
Latest Advances in EV Charging Technology
Electric vehicle charging technology has seen significant advancements in recent years, with the introduction of several innovative solutions that aim to improve charging times, efficiency, and sustainability. Here are some of the latest advances in EV charging technology:
Wireless Charging Technology
This innovative technology eliminates the need for cables and plugs, making the charging process simpler and more convenient. Wireless charging uses electromagnetic induction to transfer energy from a charging pad to a receiver coil inside the EV. While wireless charging is slower than cable-based charging, it offers greater flexibility, convenience, and safety, as it eliminates the need for physical contact between the charging port and the charging station.
Ultra-fast Charging Technology
Ultra-fast charging stations are designed to deliver a high amount of energy to the EV battery in a short amount of time. These stations can charge an EV battery up to 80% in under 30 minutes, making long-distance travel more feasible and convenient. The latest ultra-fast charging technology uses high-power chargers that can deliver up to 350 kW of power, significantly reducing charging times.
Bidirectional Charging Technology
Bidirectional charging technology allows EVs to not only consume energy from the grid but also return energy back to the grid. This technology enables EVs to act as energy storage units, making them an integral part of the power grid. Bidirectional charging is particularly useful during peak demand hours. As it enables EVs to supply energy back to the grid, thereby reducing the strain on the grid.
Solar-powered Charging Stations
Solar-powered charging stations use solar panels to generate clean energy that can be used to power EV charging stations. This technology is environmentally friendly and reduces reliance on the grid, making it an excellent option for remote locations where grid power is not readily available. Additionally, solar charging stations can work with battery storage systems. This is allowing for 24/7 access to clean energy.
Smart Charging Technology
Smart charging technology uses data and communication technologies to optimize the charging process. This technology can monitor the state of the grid, EV battery capacity, and user preferences to determine the optimal charging strategy. Smart charging technology can also facilitate vehicle-to-grid communication, enabling EVs to send data back to the grid, and receive instructions on when and how to charge.
Implications of Advances in EV Charging Technology
The Rapid development of EV charging technology has significant implications for the environment, economy, and future of transportation.
EVs are already a greener transportation option than traditional gasoline-powered cars. However, EV charging technology can further reduce carbon emissions by increasing the efficiency and sustainability of the charging process. Using renewable energy sources such as solar power for EV can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of EVs. Additionally, Smart charging technology can optimize charging patterns to minimize energy waste, further reducing emissions.
The growth of the EV industry presents significant economic opportunities. According to a report by the International Energy Agency. the market for EV charging infrastructure is expected to reach 450.5 trillion by 2040. The expansion of the EV charging industry is also creating job opportunities in fields such as manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of charging stations. Additionally, the adoption of EVs and EV charging technology can help reduce reliance on foreign oil imports, strengthening energy security
Advances in EV charging technology are opening up new possibilities for the future of transportation. Bidirectional charging technology has the potential to transform EVs into energy storage units. This is allowing them to provide electricity to the grid during peak demand hours. This technology could revolutionize the power grid. And making it more flexible and responsive to fluctuations in demand. Additionally, wireless charging technology could enable EVs to charge while driving, eliminating the need for frequent stops to refuel.
Conclusion
The latest advances in EV charging technology offer significant benefits for the environment, the economy, and the future of transportation. Technologies such as wireless charging, ultra-fast charging, bidirectional charging, solar-powered charging stations, and Smart charging systems are making electric vehicles more accessible, convenient, and sustainable than ever before. These technologies can significantly reduce carbon emissions. AND create new job opportunities, and reduce reliance on foreign oil imports.
Furthermore, they have the potential to revolutionize the way we think about energy storage and the power grid. They are enabling electric vehicles to act as energy storage units. And supply power back to the grid during peak demand hours. While there are still challenges to overcome, such as the cost and availability of charging infrastructure, the future looks bright for this technology. Because it continues to evolve and improve. With continued investment in research and development, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions that will further accelerate the transition to a sustainable future.
Steve Rogers is an accomplished and dynamic content writer with an insatiable curiosity to expand his knowledge and expertise. Armed with a potent blend of experience, creativity, and a profound passion for digital marketing, writing, and ecology, Steve has carved out a niche for himself as a knowledgeable and respected authority in his field. His unwavering commitment to excellence has inspired him to share his wealth of knowledge with the world at every opportunity, making him an invaluable resource for any brand looking to maximize its digital content. Beyond his professional pursuits, Steve’s personal passions include exploring new cultures, forging meaningful connections with diverse individuals, and immersing himself in the beauty of nature. Whether he’s strolling through the woods or enjoying a quiet afternoon at the park, Steve finds solace in the great outdoors, and believes that spending time in nature is the key to unlocking our full potential.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging is considerably faster, but requires installing a charging station, also known as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). EVSE requires a dedicated 240–volt or 208–volt electrical circuit, similar to what is required for a clothes dryer or electric range. Level 2 is found at many public and workplace charging stations, but also in many homes. It uses the same standard connector as Level 1 charging, meaning any EV can plug in at any Level 2 charger.
Level 2 charging uses a standard J1772 or Tesla connector that can plug into any EV, either directly, or through an adapter.
Depending on battery type, charger configuration and circuit capacity, Level 2 charging adds about 14 – 35 miles of range per hour of charging time.
DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging, also called quick charging or supercharging, provides the fastest available fill–up. It requires a 480–volt connection, making DC fast charging unsuitable for home use, and not every EV model is equipped for it. Stations offering DC fast charging are found in shopping centers and often along major travel corridors, allowing EV drivers to charge up quickly and take longer trips.
DC fast charging uses CHAdeMO, CCS or Tesla connector systems. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to determine if your car has fast charging capability and what connector systems are compatible with your EV.
Depending on battery type, charger configuration and circuit capacity, DC fast charging can add up to 100 miles of range in about 30 minutes of charging time.
Electric Vehicle Charging Costs
Home Charging CostsThe cost to charge your electric vehicle depends on your vehicle’s battery size and the price of electricity where you live. Most utilities offer time–of–use (TOU) rates that greatly reduce costs associated with charging a vehicle at home by charging during off–peak hours. Contact your utility to find out more. 1
While electricity costs vary greatly, the average cost of electricity in California is about 16.58¢ per kilowatt hour (kWh). 2 At this price point, charging a 40–kWh battery with a 150–mile range would cost about 4.42¢ per mile (or about 6.63 to fully charge). Meanwhile, fueling a 25–mpg gas vehicle at California’s average gas price of 3.11 per gallon 3 would cost about 12.44¢ per mile (or about 18.66 for enough gas to drive approximately 150 miles).
Home charging costs can be offset by hosting your charger on a home charging sharing network. EV drivers can earn money by sharing their home chargers or connect with other hosts to find convenient charging on the go. For more information about how you can earn money by sharing your home charger, please see these popular sharing networks:
Public Charging CostsWhile charging at home is generally preferred, many people also charge their EV at public charging stations. These stations can be free, pay–as–you–go or subscription-based, and are set by networks or property owners. Some vehicle manufacturers, such as Hyundai, Nissan and Tesla also provide complimentary public charging.
One popular public charging network charges members 450.50 per hour to charge on Level 2, and 26¢ per minute for DC fast charging in California. 4 At these rates, charging a 40–kWh battery with a 150–mile range would cost about 8¢ per mile on Level 2, and 9¢ per mile for DC fast charging.
For more information about public charging networks, here are some popular options available in California:
1 A list of utility providers is at https://www.energy.ca.gov/almanac/electricity_data/utilities.html2 https://www.eia.gov/electricity/state3 https://www.energy.gov/articles/egallon-how-much-cheaper-it-drive-electricity4 https://www.evgo.com/charging-plans/
Charging Station Rebates
Rebates for Residential Level 2 Charging StationsMany California utility providers and air districts offer rebates to make home Level 2 charging stations more affordable. Some of the rebates also help to offset the cost of installing the charging station at your home if additional electrical work is required. Find available rebates where you live.
Rebates for Commercial EV Charging StationsProperty owners can take advantage of rebates for installing commercial charging stations for public use. EV charging is a desired amenity for many California drivers and can attract more traffic to your business, improve tenant or employee satisfaction and generate a new revenue stream (fees for charging). Following are incentives that decrease the cost of charger purchases and installation. Visit the websites for more information on program eligibility requirements and funding availability.
Utility Incentives
Air District Incentives
The U.S. Market
Although wireless EV has a foothold in the U.S. market. it’s not yet on par with Europe and Asia. American businesses and entrepreneurs are waiting for a reasonable volume of EVs equipped for wireless charging to be sold here.
Currently, only one EV sold in America has wireless charging as a factory option – the BMW 530e hybrid sedan. Wireless charging provider WiTricity. which received a 25 million investment from Siemens in 2022, is developing licensing agreements that have reportedly drawn the interest of General Motors.
There’s no lack of interest in wireless charging among American EV owners. When WiTricity questioned 1,000 current and prospective EV owners in the U.S., they found that 81% are very to extremely interested in EVs equipped for wireless charging.
(Image Source: SFMagazine.com and WiTricity)
Wireless EV Charging Options
Wireless EV charging comes in two types: static EV charging, which is the most similar to what EV owners do now, and dynamic EV charging, which takes place on the open road.
Static EV Charging (Home or Office Charging Station)
Static EV charging simply means the EV is not moving while charging. Rather than plugging in, the wireless-equipped EV is parked over the installed wireless charging coil in the designated space.
Dynamic EV Charging (Roads and Highways)
Eventually, induction charging is expected to be built into the roadways so that owners can charge their EVs continuously as they go. It will work similarly to regular wireless charging and is expected to operate smoothly at speeds up to 65 mph, allowing EV owners to drive long distances without having to stop for a charge or risk running out of power.
Not surprisingly, that will be a costly undertaking. The automaker Stellantis is already working on a solution to build wireless charging for EVs into certain roadways. In September 2021, the state of Michigan announced a partnership with Electreon to create the first wireless EV charging road in the U.S a one-mile stretch in Detroit that will be available to the public when completed.
Wireless EV Charging Benefits
Although charging cables have advantages, they also have limitations. Wireless EV charging offers several benefits, particularly for commercial vehicles.
No Wires
By definition, the number one benefit of wireless EV charging is that there are no wires. EV owners do not need to carry heavy charging cables or plug their cars in at every charging station, alleviating range anxiety.
Lower Accident Risk
EV charging cables can become damaged over time, particularly in extreme heat and cold areas, which can be hazardous to the vehicle and its owner. No wires mean less risk, and replacing cables is expensive, too.
Convenience
Wireless charging is simply more convenient, even when only available as static charging – and imagine the convenience if and when dynamic charging becomes a reality.
Save Time
Although wireless charging is no faster than regular EV charging, you save a little time by not having to get out of the vehicle to plug in, etc. And again, once dynamic charging becomes a reality, the amount of time saved on charging could be substantial.
Wireless EV Charging Infrastructure Costs
Plugless Power is currently the leading supplier of wireless charging solutions. They offer a third-generation wireless charger for about 3,500, plus installation. This will change as the market expands, but there are no projections on how much.
Continental AG
Continental AG offers safe, efficient, intelligent solutions for electric machines and vehicles worldwide. For the EV wireless charging systems market, the company provides the AllCharge charging system and automated wireless charging solution. Continental AG focuses on innovation such as automated driving, connectivity, technology for future mobility, electric mobility (including EV wireless charging), safety technologies, infotainment systems, and agriculture.
The company has several subsidiaries and a strong distribution network, giving it a significant presence across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Daihen Corporation
With ten sales offices and eight production facilities worldwide, Daihen is an electronics manufacturing company based in Japan. They produce transformers, solar inverters, power distribution equipment, welding machines, cutting machines, industrial robots, and wireless power transmission systems, among other products and systems.
Daihen operates through four reportable segments – Semiconductor FPD Related, Welding Mechatronics, Power Products, and Others – and provides wireless power transfer systems through its Welding Mechatronics business segment.
Delachaux Group
Delaxchaux Group, headquartered in France, was established in 1902 and boasts worldwide clientele, including 50 percent of the world’s railways, two-thirds of the world’s seaports, and half of the planes now flying. Between subsidiaries and a strong distribution network, the company has a presence across Europe, MEA, the Americas, and APAC.
Delachaux offers brands such as Frauscher (Austria) in rail signaling, Pandrol (France) in rail infrastructure, DCX Chrome (France) in chromium metal, and Conductix Wampfler (Germany) in energy and data management systems. They operate in the wireless EV charging market through Conductix Wampfler.
Electreon, Inc.
Electreon, Inc. is a publicly-traded company in Israel that develops and implements wireless Electric Road Systems (ERS). They have developed intelligent road technology using a dynamic wireless electric system for transportation to reduce the need for heavy batteries.
Electreon focuses on Smart road technology, wireless energy, public transit, electric vehicles, E-mobility, and autonomous vehicles. They are presently conducting pilot projects on dynamic wireless charging in Israel, Italy, and Germany, among other locations.
ELIX Wireless
ELIX Wireless is a privately held Canadian company founded in 2013 to develop wireless power transfer technologies. They use magneto dynamic coupling to deliver safe and sufficient power for applications such as autonomous vehicles, warehouse and material handling robots, and automated guided vehicles (AGV).
ELIX Wireless provides solutions to buses and trucks, passenger cars, mining equipment, anti-idling, material handling, and industrial, medical, and subsea applications.
HEVO, Inc.
HEVO develops EV wireless charging solutions with three components: App Cloud Sync, Power Station, and Wireless Receiver. The HEVO app shows nearby charging stations, monitors and evaluates charging statistics and bill payment status, and indicates charging stations’ availability.
Headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, HEVO also maintains Silicon Valley, California, and Amsterdam, Netherlands offices.
InductEV (formerly Momentum Wireless Power)
Founded in 2009 in Pennsylvania as Momentum Wireless Power, InductEV develops high-power wireless charging solutions for electric vehicles. Their magnetic induction systems allow all-weather charging for EV batteries with fully automatic operations.
Their solution is designed to charge city buses, commercial vehicles, auto fleets, and industrial vehicles.
Mojo Mobility, Inc.
Mojo Mobility of California was established in 2005 to develop wireless power transfer technology. They provide solutions for applications such as mobile charging, wearable technology, automotive infrastructure, electric vehicle charging, consumer, and other applications.
The company works with different technologies, including position-free wireless charging technology, multi-device integration, wireless vs. cord charging, and safe charging technology.
WAVE, Inc.
Wireless Advanced Vehicle Electrification, or WAVE, Inc., develops and manufactures wireless charging systems for electric buses with a capacity of up to 250kW.
WAVE’s Salt Lake City depot can charge multiple vehicles automatically without manual valet work and moving plug-in chargers. The company specializes in wireless power transfer, inductive power, and electric cars. They were acquired in 2021 by Ideanomics, Inc.