Want to save money on home charging? Use a more powerful AC charger. That’s my takeaway from ADAC’s newest test, which studied AC charging losses.
The difference is something I’ve certainly noticed myself. My Chevy Blazer EV’s default charging current limit on a 120V level 1 circuit is 8 amps. A software setting allows me to raise this to 12 amps on a case-by-case basis, or set it as the default for my home charger.
But after software updates, it sometimes forgets and switches back to the 8-amp limit, which drastically increases charging times and has a noticeable effect on my power bill. It’s a good reminder that more powerful level 1 and level 2 charging circuits aren’t just faster; they’re also usually cheaper.
Here are our other top stories today:
LG’s latest U.S. battery plant just came online. It’ll build batteries for both home energy systems and EVs like the Toyota Highlander.
A 100-year-old EV with the same range as the original Nissan Leaf*.
The Tesla’s Model Y L gets range tested by Edmunds.
— Mack Hogan, Editor-In-Chief
Photo: Tesla
Home EV Charging Has A Hidden Cost. Here’s How To Reduce It And Lower Your Bill
Germany’s biggest car club tested several EVs for charging losses. One car stood out.
Photo: LGES
LG Energy Solutions' Newest Battery Megafactory Just Kicked Off Production
This Lansing, Michigan plant will employ up to 1,700 people and produce up to 35 GWh worth of batteries per year.
Photo: Mecum Auctions
This 100-Year-Old EV Came With More Range Than The First Nissan Leaf
There's a catch, though. You'd better be cool with going slow.
Photo: Tesla
Tesla’s New Three-Row EV Is The Longest-Range Model Y Tested By Edmunds
The newly introduced electric crossover beat its range estimate by more than 30 miles.