When it comes to charging electric vehicles (EVs), especially when time is of the essence, most people understand that a home Level 2 charger isn’t the quickest solution. These chargers are typically best suited for overnight charging or situations where the vehicle can remain parked for an extended period. While public DC fast chargers often steal the spotlight with their rapid charging capabilities, the home Level 2 charging sector is also making significant advancements. This article delves into the latest innovations in home EV charging, focusing on ChargePoint’s new, more powerful Level 2 AC chargers.
ChargePoint, a leading U.S. charging network, has recently announced its next generation of home Level 2 AC chargers for EVs. These new chargers promise to be significantly more powerful than their predecessors. With a compatible EV and the necessary home electrical infrastructure, these units can deliver charging speeds of up to 19.2 kilowatts (kW). In Europe, where AC charging standards often allow for faster speeds, this figure rises to 22 kW.
To put this into perspective, consider a real-world example. The author’s current home ChargePoint unit charges a Kia EV6 at approximately 7.2 kW. This typically takes around six to eight hours to bring the car’s battery from a low state to a full charge. The upgraded ChargePoint unit, under optimal conditions, could potentially charge a typical EV battery from empty to full in about four hours. This represents a substantial improvement in home charging speed, making it far more convenient for EV owners.
ChargePoint Home Flex
According to Hossein Kazemi, ChargePoint’s hardware CTO, this new generation of EV chargers is “revolutionary, not evolutionary.” The underlying architecture is designed to support advanced technologies that will enhance the charging experience for both station owners and EV drivers.
| Charger Type | Charging Speed (kW) | Approx. Full Charge Time (Typical EV) |
|---|---|---|
| Current ChargePoint Unit | 7.2 | 6-8 hours |
| New ChargePoint Unit (US) | 19.2 | ~4 hours |
| New ChargePoint Unit (Europe) | 22 | ~3.5 hours |
It’s important to note that achieving these faster charging speeds requires the correct home electrical setup. The charger must be properly wired, and the home’s electrical panel and connections must be capable of supporting the increased power draw. Additionally, not all EVs can currently handle 19 kW AC charging speeds, although this is rapidly changing. For example, the updated Toyota bZ4X can support up to 22 kW AC charging, a significant upgrade from models like the Kia EV6, which max out at 11kW. If all conditions are met, the bZ4X could theoretically achieve a full charge at home in approximately four hours using the new ChargePoint charger.
The new ChargePoint unit also boasts “vehicle-to-everything” (V2X) capabilities. This means that, if the EV supports it, the charger can turn the vehicle into a mobile power source for the home, a building, or even the electrical grid. This feature, combined with ChargePoint’s Omni Port technology (which ensures compatibility with all North American plug types), makes the new charger a versatile and future-proof solution. Furthermore, the unit is designed for seamless integration with solar panel systems and fleet charging solutions, enhancing its appeal for a wide range of users.
Details regarding pricing, the unit’s design, and its official release date are expected to be announced soon. However, based on the information available, this new ChargePoint Level 2 charger appears to be a compelling upgrade for EV owners looking to enhance their home charging experience.
A: A Level 2 charger uses a 240V outlet (similar to those used for dryers and ovens) to charge an EV much faster than a standard 120V Level 1 charger.
A: The new charger can deliver up to 19.2 kW (or 22 kW in Europe), potentially charging an EV from empty to full in about four hours, compared to the 6-8 hours required by the current 7.2 kW unit.
A: V2X allows the EV to act as a power source, providing electricity to your home, building, or even back to the grid, if the car and charger support this function.
A: While the charger is designed to work with all North American plug types, the EV must be able to handle the higher charging speeds (up to 19.2 kW). Check your vehicle’s specifications to confirm its maximum AC charging capacity.
A: You may need to upgrade your home’s electrical panel and wiring to support the higher power draw of the 19.2 kW charger. Consult with a qualified electrician to assess your home’s electrical capacity and determine the necessary upgrades.
