With the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and the increasing need for reliable charging infrastructure, Level 2 (L2) EV chargers have emerged as the dominant choice for EV charging. While Level 3 chargers, also known as DC Fast Chargers (DCFC), grab headlines for their rapid charging capabilities, L2 chargers continue to be the main supplier as they meet the daily charging needs of EV owners.
Why L2 Is the Go-To for EV Charging
With the increasing number of people switching to EVs, there is a demand for reliable charging solutions. It’s estimated that more than 30 million EV chargers will be needed by 2030 to support the steady growth of EV adoption in the US. Level 2 chargers are the ultimate go-to solution because they can be installed practically everywhere. After all, Level 2 chargers use the standard 240V electrical supply, while DCFC requires 480V and additional permitting. Some businesses may already have the electrical infrastructure needed to install an L2 charger, making electrification even more cost-effective.
According to the US Department of Transportation, the average driver in the US drives only 37 miles per day. Need to run errands or go shopping? Charge up while you shop! Going to the office? Charge up while you work! L2 charging is a perfect choice for property owners and managers looking to serve EV drivers without the expense of installing DCFCs. In 2022, the US had over 136,500 public electric vehicle chargers, strategically distributed across nearly 53,800 charging locations. It's worth noting that over 75% of these chargers are categorized as L2 chargers.
The growth of public chargers has been consistently on the rise since 2007, supporting the expansion and adoption of electric vehicles nationwide. Blink has helped make American-made L2 chargers widely available, whether in public locations or at home. They have become an integral part of our daily routine, ensuring that EVs stay fully powered and ready to go. The best part? These Blink chargers are made in America, supporting American jobs, income, and growth.
L2 Chargers Save You Money
We all know that EVs are better for the environment and an investment for the future, but what effect does EV charging have on our finances? Unlike DCFCs, L2 chargers can make use of existing electrical systems in homes and businesses, with less extensive upgrades.
In one International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) study on installation costs, the average cost of installing a single networked L2 charger was $2,836. Installation costs immediately increased for DCFC, with average installation costs of $45,506 for a 50kW unit, and $65,984 for a 350kW. These costs do not include the cost of the charging stations themselves, which averaged $3,127 for a networked L2, $28,401 for a 50kW DCFC, and $140,000 for a 350kW DCFC. L2 chargers are truly the more affordable choice.
This optimized energy flow not only maximizes charging efficiency but also minimizes wastage, resulting in significant cost savings for the home or business. Compared to lower-level options (such as a basic Level 1 power cable), L2 stations offer a superior overnight charging experience to make electric vehicle ownership more affordable while contributing to a sustainable electric mobility ecosystem.
EV Chargers at Home
Picture this: It's nighttime, and you've had a long day. Your EV is in need of a recharge. That's where L2 home chargers come in. Residential L2 chargers like Blink’s HQ 200 are designed to make charging from the comfort of your home easier and more accessible. These chargers can be hardwired into your home electrical system or plugged into your standard NEMA 14-50 outlet. The Blink HQ 200 is perfect for overnight charging at home, especially when you can take advantage of off-peak utility rates when electricity is cheaper. By using a L2 charger, you can conveniently recharge your EV overnight while minimizing your effect on your monthly utility bill and local energy grid. It's a win-win situation for you and the environment.
According to J.D. Power’s U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Home Charging Study, an overwhelming 88% of electric vehicle (EV) owners reported charging their vehicles at home either “often” or “always,” making the market for EV home-based chargers innovative and competitive.
What if you don’t live in a single-family house? No problem. L2 chargers have gained popularity among multi-unit properties due to their exceptional features. Blink's Series 7 charging stations are specially designed to cater to fleet and multi-unit properties, offering L2 AC chargers with an impressive power output of up to 80 amps. Equipped with a dual-port design and Universal J1772 plugs, these charging stations enable two vehicles to charge simultaneously. The convenience they provide is unparalleled, making them an important component of the electric vehicle industry.
What Else Can L2 Chargers Do?
As the demand for EV charging infrastructure skyrockets, L2 chargers play a crucial role in supporting the rapid growth of the national EV charging network. These chargers require less infrastructure investment, enabling their deployment to be both faster and more cost-effective.
Leveraging this forward-thinking initiative, Blink has successfully deployed thousands of L2 chargers across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East as a leading provider of L2 EV chargers. This extensive deployment allows Blink to establish a widespread charging network, ensuring convenient access to charging options ranging from residential areas to workplaces and public spaces.
While DCFCs may capture attention with their impressive fast charging abilities, L2 chargers remain the preferred option for daily charging. Their availability, cost-effectiveness, suitability for overnight charging, and contribution to the growth of charging infrastructure establish them as the dependable and convenient choice for EV owners. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, L2 chargers will maintain their position as the primary choice for everyday EV consumers. Contact the Blink sales team today to get your own L2 EV charger.