How Long Does it Take to Charge an Electric Car?

The demand for electric vehicles is becoming increasingly popular. However, unlike regular vehicles with an internal combustion engine, you’ll have to charge an EV as you drive on the Bloomington streets. But, what is EV charging? EV charging is when you’re plugging your electric vehicle into a charger or outlet to provide it with more driving range. Unlike an internal combustion engine vehicle, there’s no need to stop at the pump when you run out of fuel.

All you have to do is plug your EV into a charging outlet, and you’ll be good to go soon after. But, how long does it take to charge an EV? Fortunately, thanks to innovations in automotive technology, charging an electric vehicle is quick. However, the times may vary depending on the specific vehicle you’re driving as well as the charging level you’re using. The Sam Leman Automotive Group is here to share the basics of electric car charging time and discuss a few of our favorite eco-conscious models.

Electric Car Charging Options: What Is EV Charging?

When you’re beginning your research on, “What is EV charging?”, you’ll find that there are three main ways to charge your electric vehicle. Whether you’re choosing a new BMW or a new Chevrolet, electric vehicles from different brands will likely utilize the same three levels of charging. Let’s take a look at the different charging levels available:

1. Level 1: Level 1 charging typically refers to charging your EV with a normal three-pronged 110V/120V charging outlet. This is one of the slowest ways to charge an electric vehicle, however, it’s one of the easiest ways to charge an EV in your Morton home.
2. Level 2: Level 2 can often be utilized with a public charger or an OEM-approved home charging station. Level 2 chargers are normally installed by a professional and utilize up to 240V to operate. However, Level 2 chargers offer quicker charging times than level 1 chargers.
3. DC Fast Chargers: Fast chargers allow you to charge your EV incredibly quickly. Most fast chargers are only available as public chargers since they need an incredible amount of power to operate. In fact, some fast chargers can use up to 80 amps. Utilize a fast charger when you’re running low on driving range, and you’ll be ready to tackle the Peoria roads in no time.

What Are Some Popular Electric Car Charging Times?

With the different levels of EV charging out of the way, are you wondering, “How long does it take to charge an EV?” Of course, charging times will vary across various makes and models. However, we can help you understand the charging times for some of our popular models. Take a look below for some more information on popular EV charging times:

Chevrolet Bolt EV

• Level 1 Charging: About 4 miles of range per hour of charge.
• Level 2: About 25 miles of range per hour of charge.
• Fast Charging: Up to 39 miles of range per hour of charge.

BMW iX

• Level 1 Charging: About 4 miles of range per hour of charge.
• Level 2: Up to 40 miles of range per hour of charge.
• Fast Charging: Up to 108 miles of range per 10 minutes of charging.

Home Quick Charging Stations

Depending on the exact EV you’re choosing, you may find that the home charging station and quick charger networks compatible with your electric vehicle will vary. You’ll want to reference your information manual to confirm the charging network your electric vehicle is a part of. While there may be other charging networks available for your EV, here’s some information about BMW and Chevrolet quick charging stations:

Chevrolet

• Home Charging Installation Partner: Qmerit.
• Charging Network: Multiple brands including EVgo, Blink Charging, ChargePoint, and more.

BMW

• Home Charging Installation Partner: Qmerit.
• Charging Network: Electrify America, EVgo, and more.

Hybrid Options

Now that we’ve answered, “How long does it take to charge an EV?”, are you thinking that you may need to shop for a different kind of vehicle? Consider a hybrid vehicle instead. We offer several hybrid options available for an efficient drive around Bloomington, Morton, Peoria. Our new hybrid vehicles are here to bridge the gap between full EVs and standard internal combustion engine vehicles.

They provide the power of a gasoline-powered engine and electric motors to help you save fuel on your drives. We also have many gasoline-powered options that earn outstanding fuel economy estimates from the EPA. Driving a fuel-efficient vehicle has never been easier thanks to the Sam Leman Automotive Group.

Find Your Electric Vehicle Today With the Sam Leman Automotive Group!

If you have any questions about our electric vehicle vs. hybrid options, you can always contact us at any time for more information. We look forward to helping you find the eco-friendly car of your dreams.