How Do Electric Car Charging Stations Work?

“How do electric car charging stations work?” This is one of the questions drivers ask most frequently as they consider switching to an electric vehicle. While there are three types of charging stations, they all operate in the same general way, so you can be sure to keep range anxiety in the rearview on all your drives in the Dulles Airport and DC Metro areas. Learn about how they work, as well as electric car charging station costs, below.

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Types of EV Charging Stations

So, how do electric car charging stations work? It depends on which of the three types you utilize; here is a breakdown of each:

Level 1 - Typically found in residential homes, these chargers use a standard home wall outlet and can take up to 24 hours or more to deliver a full charge.
Level - Level 2 chargers can be found at public stations or can be professionally installed in homes. They consume more power, which means faster charging times, usually between 60 and 120 miles of charge, for about every 45 minutes.
Level 3/DC Fast Charging - Your fastest option is Level 3 charging, also known as DC Fast Charging. Because of their substantial energy needs, you can only find these systems at public Level 3 stations. In general, expect 200 to 300 miles of charge in 30 to 45 minutes.

Types of EV Charging Ports

To charge your vehicle, you will need the right charging port. They differ somewhat based on your EV model and the type of charging station you’re using, Level 2 or Level 3.

All Level 2 chargers for EVs made after 2000 are identical, sharing the same J1772 charging port. With Level 3, you’ll likely have either a CCS or CHAdeMO plug, and most Level 3 stations accept both of these plugs–unless you have a Tesla, which boasts its own specific type of charger that only works in brand-approved charging stations.

Electric Car Charging Station Costs

While charging at home is the most cost-effective solution, it will take longer and won’t be an option when you’re far from your Loudoun County home. Electric car charging station costs vary by type, with Level 2 stations charging an average of $15 to $25 for a full charge. Level 3 tends to charge between $30 and $45. Remember, when you invest in a new BMW EV, you receive complimentary charging sessions on Electrify America’s nationwide network.

Find Your Next Electric Vehicle at BMW of Sterling

We’ve answered some important questions: How do electric car charging stations work? What do electric car charging stations cost? Now that you can answer these questions, it’s time to start shopping for your next EV. We invite you to browse our online inventory and then stop in for a test drive around the Sterling area. In the meantime, read about the charging times of the BMW iX and the BMW i4, and check out our EV information hub. A world of elite performance, next-level efficiency, and legendary BMW luxury awaits in your next EV from BMW of Sterling!