All EVs can plug into a regular 120V electrical receptacle, as found in virtually all homes and businesses. This is often referred to as ‘Level 1’ charging. No charger is required for this, virtually all EVs have the required voltage and current conversion for this built into the car. The trouble is, the amount of electricity that can be delivered through these standard receptacles is relatively small, and the car will take a long time to charge…think in terms of charging at a rate of about 5 to 8 kms of range, per hour.
Using a 240V connection (often called ‘Level 2’ charging) instead (like a clothes dryer or electric stove), is at least three times faster (about 15 to 30 kms of range per hour), but a charging station (or ‘EV charger’) is required, in order to charge the EV at this voltage.
For most EV owners, the convenience of being able to add range more quickly, or completely charge overnight, is well worth the cost of installing a ‘Level 2’ EV charging solution … indeed for many EV drivers, it is simply necessary in order to get full utility out of the vehicle.