General

What Is Level 3 Charging? 

GM cars at EV-go charging station

Level 3 charging, also known as DC fast charging, is the quickest form of charging an electric vehicle (EV) currently — no pun intended. Level 3 charging has a power output that can reach 50 kW to 350 kW, depending on the capabilities of the charger and the EV’s battery. Level 3 charging stations are ideal for road trips as they can replenish up to 80% (the sweet spot) of an EV’s range during the time (20-60 minutes) the whole family uses the bathroom and has a snack. The most common Level 3 connector is CCS, although some vehicles use a CHAdeMO setup. The Tesla Supercharger is a Level 3 charging system that uses a proprietary connector for Tesla EVs. See also Level 1 and Level 2 charging.