Charging Stations
Three basic types of charging stations exist today:
Level I charging typically uses a standard electrical outlet. It uses a standard 3-prong plug with a ground-fault circuit interrupter located in the power supply cable within 12 inches of the plug. Although 3-prong standard electrical outlets are present almost everywhere, Level I charging is not the preferred means of charging. Depending on the battery type and capacity, it can take from 8-30 hours to fully recharge a battery. In addition, several studies conclude that for some battery systems, Level I charging shortens battery life and reduces performance.
Level II charging employs a permanently wired and fastened station at a fixed location. It requires ground fault protection for users, a no-load make/break interlock (which prevents vehicle startup while charging takes place), and a safety breakaway for the cable and connector. Depending on the battery type and capacity, Level II can recharge and EV in 2-6 hours.
Level III is available and awaiting standardization of the connector by fall of 2009. Fast-fill chargers are able to recharge 50% of an EV’s capacity in 25 min or less. A level III system relies on an off-board charger that converts AC to DC.
Features and Benefits:
- Ground-fault protection circuitry for user safety
- Integral power metering circuitry provides accurate measurement of energy delivered for charging
- Standards compliant wireless mesh networking integrated into the charging station
- Encryption Network Security
- Charging connector locks into place during charging to prevent cord theft. With auto unlock in case of power outage
- Integrated RFID reader recognizes and identifies subscriber key fobs and smart cards
- Provides a direct replacement function for existing parking meters
- Through the wireless network Software and Firmware can be upgraded remotely
- Remote Management allows authorized operators to manage the charging stations from any web browser
- Operational Alerts are available to authorized operators online, via e-mail or text.