What Are ZEVs ?
Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) are vehicles with no harmful tailpipe emissions and include plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). PEVs include both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
How Are PEVs Recharged ?
In general, recharging a PEV involves connecting the vehicle’s recharging cord into one of three types of electricity sources:
- Alternating Current (AC) Level 1 – typically uses a standard 120 volt electrical receptacle, and has the longest recharging time (overnight).
- Alternating Current (AC) Level 2 – typically uses a 240 volt branch circuit/ charging equipment, and recharges at approximately 3X the speed of AC Level 1.
- Direct Current (DC) – typically uses 400 volt charging equipment, and can recharge in as little as 30 minutes.
What Permits Are Required For Upgrading Home Wiring For A PEV?
Modifying a home’s wiring system (e.g., adding a receptacle or branch circuit) requires an electrical permit. “Hard wired” (i.e., not plug-in) recharging equipment must be labeled by an approved US (or Canadian affiliate) testing agency. Local utilities also offer lower rates for PEV recharging, which typically requires the installation of a separate electrical meter. Other installation considerations include location (i.e., weather exposed) and whole-house electrical capacity upgrade.
Check the Links below and your local utility’s and jurisdiction’s websites for additional information.
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