Alternating current charging — used by Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Your EV’s onboard charger converts AC power to DC before storing it in the battery. AC charging is slower than DC fast charging.

The rate at which electrical current flows. Higher amperage = faster charging. A 48A Level 2 charger is roughly 50% faster than a 32A unit at the same voltage.

A fully electric vehicle with no combustion engine. Powered entirely by a battery pack and electric motors. Examples: Tesla Model Y, Chevy Equinox EV, Rivian R1T.

The electronics that monitor and control battery temperature, state of charge, and charge/discharge rates. The BMS protects the battery from conditions that accelerate degradation.

A J1772 connector with two additional DC fast-charge pins. The dominant fast-charge standard for non-Tesla North American EVs from 2013–2024. Now transitioning to NACS on newer models.

Direct current charging that bypasses the onboard charger and delivers power directly to the battery. Can add 100–300+ miles of range per hour depending on the charger and vehicle. Uses CCS, NACS, or CHAdeMO connectors.

The official range estimate tested by the US Environmental Protection Agency under controlled conditions. Real-world range varies by speed, temperature, climate control use, and driving style — typically 10–20% less than EPA in mixed conditions.

The technical term for an EV charger. Strictly speaking, the EVSE manages the flow of electricity to your vehicle’s onboard charger — it does not convert AC to DC itself (that happens inside the car).

The SAE standard for AC charging in North America. The round 5-pin connector found at virtually all public Level 2 charging stations. Compatible with all EVs via adapter if needed.

The unit of energy capacity used to measure EV batteries. A 75 kWh battery is roughly equivalent to a 2.5-gallon gas tank in terms of the energy it holds. Higher kWh = more range.

The unit of power, measuring the rate of energy transfer. A 7.2 kW charger adds energy at that rate. kWh / kW = approximate charge time from empty to full.

Originally the Tesla connector, ratified by SAE in 2023. Handles both AC and DC charging in a single compact design. Now standard on most new North American EVs from 2024 onward.

A 240V, 50-amp outlet (the same type used for electric ranges and dryers). The most common outlet used for Level 2 portable EV chargers. Commonly found at RV parks and campgrounds.

Driving using only the accelerator pedal for both acceleration and deceleration. When you lift off the throttle, regenerative braking slows the vehicle and recovers energy. Available in most modern EVs at maximum regen settings.

The process of recovering kinetic energy during deceleration by running the electric motor as a generator and feeding the resulting electricity back into the battery. Extends range and reduces brake wear.

The current battery charge level, expressed as a percentage. Most EV owners aim to keep SOC between 20% and 80% for daily driving to maximize long-term battery health.

The sensors in your tires that alert you when pressure drops below a safe threshold. EVs are heavier than comparable gas cars and rely more heavily on correct tire pressure for both safety and range efficiency.