J. William Moore, EV World publisher says thatdespite of the charge of an electric vehicle "still taking longer than filling a gasoline car's fuel tank, it becomes less of an inconvenience for drivers, and is, therefore, an attractive option that is seen as helping potential buyers overcome their concerns about an electric car's limited range."

 

Currently there three defined levels of charging: Level 1 is 115V at 13-15 amps; Level 2 is 230V at 30-40 amps; and Level 3, or what's also referred to as Direct DC ‘fast charging'. According to the publisher, "the perceived necessity for public fast charging poses an interesting dilemma for carmakers, EV owners, and communities."

In Europe, says Moore, the charging rates are essentially Level 2 since their standard electric service is based on 220V. Moving up to Level 3 charging represents a ten-fold or more increase in costs for the charger, which requires industrial-grade grid service. But in Portugal, MOBI.E network combines the two levels - normal charging stations and fast charging stations (level 3) in places of public access all over the country.

 

Source: Mobi.E