120/240 step up

[Poncho]

So, if ya step 120 V to 240 v to charge yo lect ride, will ya not use the sammo juice, just git faster charge? I'm jus say'n...

 

[Jadnashua]

All things being equal, double the voltage, you will double the power. This is if you keep the amps the same. Most EVs are both current and power limited. For example, my BMW i3 can handle a maximum of 7400W, so depending on the voltage applied, that's somewhere near 30A at 240vac. You won't get 30A on a typical 120vac circuit, though. So, it depends on what you're starting with, and in the case of an EV, what the capacity of the EVSE you hook up. While an EV won't try to pull more than the EVSE says it has via its signaling line, it's both the circuit it's plugged into and the device itself that determines the maximum available. It is up to the installer to make sure that the EVSE is installed properly (if hard-wired), or the plug involved, if you plug it in. If you had say a dryer circuit with a 50A plug, but only had it on a 30A circuit, you could end up popping the breaker if you had an EVSE that is capable of more than that (keep in mind the 80% rule that applies to this type of device).

So, to simplify...240vac can charge your EV faster, but might not, depending on your setup.

Note, not all EVSEs will work properly on both 120/240vac...the internal power supply and power contactor's coil may not like 240vac.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Poncho]

Roger dat an Thanks for git back....