In the first quarter of 2023 , DC fast charging accounted for about 21.5% of all public charging ports for electric vehicles. DC fast charging is essential for rapidly charging EVs, providing direct current at power levels of 50 kilowatts or higher. This technology is crucial for making long-distance EV travel more practical and addressing consumer concerns about range and charging times when away from home.
On the other hand, Level 2 charging, the most common type of public charging available, uses a 240-volt circuit like those found in homes for clothes dryers. While it is slower than DC fast charging, L2 chargers are becoming increasingly prevalent at destinations like shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels, where vehicles are parked for extended periods of time. Lastly, Level 1 charging is the slowest option, utilizing a standard 120-volt household outlet. L1 chargers are useful for longer-term charging scenarios, such as at airports, but they make up less than 1% of all public chargers.