Level 1 charging involves plugging the EV into a regular household outlet using the charging cable that typically comes with the vehicle. This type of charging is characterised by its simplicity and low cost, requiring no special installation or equipment beyond the standard electrical outlet. It delivers a charging power of about 1,3 to 2,4 kW, which translates to approximately 3 to 8 km of range per hour of charging.
Due to its slow charging speed, Level 1 charging is best suited for scenarios where the vehicle can remain plugged in for extended periods, such as overnight charging at home. It is particularly beneficial for users with short daily commutes, or for those who do not require rapid recharging. While it may take up to 50 hours to fully charge a depleted battery electric vehicle (BEV), it can effectively meet the needs of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) due to their smaller battery sizes, which can be recharged in about 5 to 6 hours.
Level 1 charging is widely accessible, making it a convenient option for many EV owners, especially those living in homes or apartment complexes with available electrical outlets. However, for businesses or individuals with higher charging demands or longer daily driving distances, Level 2 or Level 3 (DC fast charging) options might be more suitable due to their significantly faster charging capabilities.