• Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet that you are likely to find in your garage. This is the slowest type of charging and will add an average of 2-5 miles per hour of charge. Also called “trickle charging,” this type of charging is typically only used at home. Power outputs are around 1 kW. 

• Level 2 charging requires a 240V outlet. These chargers can be installed in your home with a basic electrical upgrade. These are very commonly used for public and workplace chargers. These chargers add 10-20 miles per hour of charge. Power outputs range from 7 kW to 19 kW. 

• Level 3 chargers, or “direct current” (DC) Fast Chargers, are only used in commercial settings. These chargers are most often found along highways and provide 180-240 miles per hour of charge. Power outputs range from 50kWh to 350kWh.  

A connector is what is plugged into the vehicle to charge it. Different electric vehicles have different connector types and the connector type also depends on the level of charging. The most important thing for EV drivers to understand is what type of connector their vehicle has.  

For Level 1 and 2 charging, the J1772 connector is common for cars driven in the U.S.  

For DC fast charging, most EV models on the market charge using the CCS (combined charging system) connector. The CHAdeMO connector is another common type among Japanese automakers.  

The exception to this is Tesla, which is the only car that uses the NACS connector for both level 2 and DC fast charging.    

Read more about these different connectors.

Approximately 98% of Americans drive less than 40-50 miles per day. The average range for an EV is 250 to 300 miles per charge. You may not need to install a special outlet to charge for your daily commute or running errands. As long as you have a regular 110v outlet within 25 feet of where you park your car, you can use a Level 1 charger.  

If you decide to install a Level 2 charger at home, the installation costs will depend on the system you select, permitting fees and your home’s configuration. Additional resources are available to help you find the right charging station.  

Check your city’s website for details on applying for an EV charging permit for your property.   

San Mateo County unincorporated residents and businesses, apply for an EV charging permit with the Department of Planning and Building. 

• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV): Cars that are powered by a large battery that stores electric energy. These charge by plugging into an electric power source. When people refer to fully electric vehicles, they are referring to BEVs. 

• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV): Cars that are powered by an internal combustion engine and electric motor using energy from a medium-sized battery. Some can travel over 40 miles on electric power before needing to burn fuel. These cars plug into an electric power source and are also filled up at a gas station.  

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV): Cars that are powered by an internal combustion engine and electric motor using energy from a small battery. These are filled up at a gas station to refuel. The battery is usually charged by the electric motor recouping electricity while the car is slowing down.