How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Vehicle?

Are you thinking about going electric to eliminate trips to the gas station from your St. Louis area drives but still have questions about switching to an electric vehicle (EV)? We answer a lot of questions about EVs these days at Suntrup Automotive Group, and one of the most common questions we hear is, “How long does it take to charge an electric car?” We understand the apprehension some St. Charles and St. Louis drivers have about EVs, including electric car charging times, but the answer to this question is that it depends on different factors, including the make and model of your EV and the type of charging station you use.

Continue reading as we discuss the different types of charging stations and how long it typically takes to charge an electric vehicle. Of course, feel free to contact us at Suntrup Automotive Group with any questions you have about EVs and charging stations or to schedule a test drive in one of the electric vehicles in our expansive new vehicle inventory.

What are My Electric Car Charging Options?

1. Level 1 Charging (Regular Outlet): The most basic type of charging station is the domestic home outlet charging station, which uses a three-pronged (or grounded) plug to connect to your home’s power outlets. These charging stations provide what’s called Level 1 Charging (110V/120V), which typically takes 24 hours or more to deliver a full charge. Even though Level 1 Charging takes a large amount of time, if you charge it overnight after daily use, you should start each day with a fully charged EV that’s ready to take on the St. Louis area roads and traffic.
2. Level 2 Charging: Even though you could get by with a domestic home outlet system, most St. Charles and Fenton drivers will crave something that delivers a full charge in much less time, which is why most new EVs come with their own unique Level 2 charging system. Level 2 systems deliver from 208V to 240V of charge, enabling it to cut car charging times in half and deliver up to an 80% charge in as little as 30 to 45 minutes! Level 2 charging stations are typically installed by the manufacturer, and sometimes this installation is free for the EV owner.
3. Level 3 Charging: Level 3 charging stations are the most advanced charging stations and are typically found in public spaces, such as the parking lots of popular shopping and dining areas. These charging stations provide a direct current that’s capable of providing a full charge in as little as 30 minutes depending on the make and model of your EV. And, the exciting thing is that more and more Level 3 charging stations are popping up all over the St. Louis area and the rest of the country, meaning there’s never been a better time to take a road trip in an EV!

Find Your Electric Vehicle Near Fenton

If you’re ready to hit the St. Louis and Jefferson County streets in a new electric vehicle, then Suntrup Automotive Group is ready to help you make it happen. Contact us today to learn more about our selection of EVs and how to get behind the wheel of one. You can even apply for special financing online and get pre-approved in minutes to make the buying process quicker and more convenient. At Suntrup Automotive Group, we’re committed to getting you a great car that meets your needs and budget without any haggling or hassle.