How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Vehicle with Level 3 Charging?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and lower operating costs. One significant aspect of owning an EV is understanding how long it takes to charge the vehicle, particularly using Level 3 fast-charging stations. In this article, we will demystify the charging times for different EV models, focusing on the Tesla Model S and comparing it with the Model 3. Additionally, we will explore the impact of the charging level on charging time and provide a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions.

Understanding EV Charging Levels

There are three primary levels of EV charging:

Level 1 (120V): This is the slowest type of charging and typically used for overnight charging from a standard household outlet. Level 2 (240V): Operates on a dedicated circuit and can charge faster than Level 1. Common in garages or designated charging stations. Level 3 (DC Fast Charging): The fastest and most advanced charging level, providing up to 350kW of power. Ideal for quick top-ups when on the go.

Charging a Tesla Model S at Level 3

Let's delve into the specifics of charging a Tesla Model S with Level 3 charging. The Tesla Model S typically has a battery capacity ranging from 75 kWh to 100 kWh. The specific battery size will affect the charging time.

Charging Times for the Tesla Model S

A Model S with a 100 kWh battery is a common configuration. When using a Level 3 charging station, it can take approximately 90 minutes to charge from 0% to 100%.

Breaking Down the Charging Process

However, it's important to note that the initial charge speeds are faster compared to the final stages. Here's a detailed breakdown:

To charge from 0% to 80%, it typically takes around 43 minutes. Charging from 80% to 90% takes about 42 minutes. The final 10% from 90% to 100% takes approximately 21 minutes.

For a Tesla Model S with a 75 kWh battery, the charging time will be slightly different:

To charge from 0% to 80%, it typically takes around 35 minutes. Charging from 80% to 90% takes about 38 minutes. The final 10% from 90% to 100% takes approximately 25 minutes.

Charging a Tesla Model 3 at Level 3

The Tesla Model 3 has a smaller battery size, typically around 67 kWh, making it faster to charge. When using a Level 3 charging station, the charging times are as follows:

To charge from 0% to 100%, it took 63 minutes. To charge from 0% to 80%, it took 32 minutes. To charge from 80% to 90%, it took 42 minutes. The final 20% from 90% to 100% took about 31 minutes.

This demonstrates that the last segment of charging is slower due to the reduced capacity of the battery.

Factors Influencing Charging Speeds

Several factors can influence the charging speed, including:

The size of the battery. The type and power of the charging station (Level). The current state of charge of the battery. The efficiency of the battery itself.

Understanding these factors can help you make the best decision when choosing an EV and planning your charging needs.

Choosing the Right Level of Charging Station

For quick trips and top-ups, Level 3 charging stations are ideal. However, they are not as convenient for full charges at home or in garages. Level 2 chargers are a good compromise for regular daily use, and Level 1 chargers are perfect for overnight charging without significant constraints on time.

Conclusion

In summary, the time it takes to charge an EV with Level 3 charging depends on several factors, including the battery size and the specific charging station's power output. For a Tesla Model S with a 100 kWh battery, it typically takes 90 minutes to go from 0% to 100%, while a Model 3 with a 67 kWh battery might take 63 minutes. Understanding these details can help you plan your charging efficiently and make the most of your EV.