According to specific classifications, a Level 4 charger is considered an ultra-fast DC charging station capable of delivering very high power and voltage for rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging.
Key Characteristics of a Level 4 Charger
Based on the provided reference, a Level 4 charger is defined by its high specifications designed for minimal charging times:
- Type: DC Fast Charging
- Voltage: Operates at 800 volts (800v DC)
- Power Output: Offers a high power output, specifically noted as 350 kilowatts (350 kW)
- Speed: Characterized as "ultra fast," significantly reducing the time required to add range to an EV battery.
Charging Speed Examples
These high power levels translate into substantial range added in a short period. The reference provides specific examples of the charging speed capabilities:
- Nearly 112 kilometers (about 70 miles) can be added in less than 5 minutes.
- Up to 338 kilometers (about 210 miles) can be added in under 18 minutes.
- Adding 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) can take as little as four minutes.
This speed makes Level 4 chargers ideal for locations where drivers need to quickly add significant range, such as along major highways or at busy public charging hubs.
| Time | Approximate Range Added |
|---|---|
| < 5 minutes | ~112 km (~70 miles) |
| < 18 minutes | ~338 km (~210 miles) |
| As little as 4 minutes | ~100 km (~62 miles) |
Cost Considerations
While the cost can vary, the reference indicates that adding 100 km of range at a 350 kW Level 4 charger can be priced at less than $3.
It's important to note that while the term "Level 4" is used in some contexts to denote these very high-power DC chargers (like the 350 kW units), standard EV charging classifications typically refer to DC Fast Charging as Level 3. However, based on the provided information, a Level 4 charger specifically refers to these ultra-fast, high-voltage (800V) and high-power (350 kW) DC stations.
