EV Charger Buyer's Guide - poweredbyefi.org

09 Jun.,2025

 

EV Charger Buyer's Guide - poweredbyefi.org

Why Drive an Electric Vehicle?

Choosing to drive a vehicle that does not use gasoline helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Burning a gallon of gasoline adds 19.6 pounds (8,887 grams) of carbon dioxide (CO2) to the atmosphere (source: epa.gov). This means that for a vehicle that gets 31 miles per gallon, such as a Ford Escape, for every hundred miles driven 63.2 pounds of CO2 will be emitted. While CO2 will eventually be absorbed by the oceans, vegetation, and soil, it will be hundreds of years (at least) before the released CO2 will have been fully removed from the atmosphere (source: mit.edu)

EraCharge supply professional and honest service.

With an electric vehicle, the emissions associated with electricity use varies based on how the electricity is generated, but in the United States in the national average was 0.86 pounds of CO2 per kWh generated (source: eia.gov). An electric vehicle such as a Chevrolet Equinox will use 31 kWh of electricity to travel 100 miles, which means that 26.7 pounds of CO2 would be emitted given current sources of electricity. This means that the EV will lead to a reduction of 36.5 pounds of CO2 emissions for each hundred miles driven than would have been emitted from a gas-powered vehicle with a 31 mpg rating. Given the number of miles driven in the U.S. each year (3.16 trillion miles in , source: energy.gov), the climate benefits associated with a shift away from gasoline-powered vehicles will be huge.

Why Install an EV Charger?

Once you have an electric vehicle, one of the first things to consider is how to charge the vehicle. One option is simply plugging the vehicle into a common 120 volt outlet, which will add about 3 miles of range per hour of charging. This may be fine for recharging plug-in hybrid vehicles, but it may not be practical for many EV owners. Another option would be to use public charging stations. There were 184,000 public EV charging stations in the United States at the end of (source: energy.gov), and growth continues to be robust. While public charging stations may be best choice for EV owners in apartments and condominiums, for those with access to a private driveway or garage, the benefits of installing a 240 volt Level 2 EV charger are compelling. 

  • Convenience: When an EV owner has a Level 2 EV Charger installed, it means vehicle will be able to charge overnight, every night. The need to use a public charging station will likely be be limited to long trips
  • Environmental Benefits: Having an EV charger ar your house or business may provide the opportunity for charging the EV with a 100% renewable source when rooftop solar is installed or when electricity purchased from the grid is from a renewable source
  • Lower Charging Costs: When available, time of use rates, off-peak rates, and demand response programs provide the opportunity to charge during periods when electric rates are lowest, and/or to be compensated for not charging during peak periods, reducing electricity costs 
  • Increased Property Value: Even if you do not have an electric vehicle, installing an EV charger prior to selling a house can more than pay for itself. Research from the Center for Global Sustainability in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland found that close proximity of an EV charger to a home could increase a home's value by 3.3% or more (source: umd.edu)

General Features

EV chargers for residential use are usually 240 volt Level 2 chargers, which will add about 30 miles of range for each hour of charging.  The need for a 240 volt connection means that most people willl require the services of a licensed electrician to install it, but when selecting a Level 2 charger following are some key features to consider.

  • Hardwire or NEMA Plug: There are three common ways to connect the EV Charger to the power source. Some come with a NEMA 6-50 plug, some have a NEMA 14-50 plug, and some are intended to be hardwired. If a NEMA 6-50 outlet (3-wire connection) or 14-50 outlet (4-wire connection) already exists you will want to order a charger with a compatible plug. Otherwise, the benefit of a charger with one of the NEMA plug configurations will allow the EV charger to be more easily replaced or upgraded in the future without the need for an electrician, or if you move you will be able to take the charger with you. The benefit of a hardwire EV Charger is that the initial installation costs may be less since a NEMA 6-50 or 14-50 outlet will not also need to be installed. NEMA 14-50 outlets are more common, while NEMA 6-50 outlets are likely to be less expensive to install
  • Vehicle Interface: When choosing a Level 2 EV charger, verify that the plug will work with the EV to be charged. Most EVs accept a J style plug from the charger to the vehicle, which is the North American standard for most Level 2 chargers. The exception are Teslas, which use the NACS standard, allowing connections to both Level 2 chargers and Level 3 superchargers. For connecting to chargers with a J plug, Teslas use an adapter that allows that the J plug to connect to the vehicle
  • Cable Length: EV charging cables are not necessarily all the same length. A longer cable will allow the vehicle to be parked further away from the charging station. Consider this when deciding where the EV charger should be located
  • Amperage: An EV charger supporting a higher amperage setting will allow a vehicle to be charged more quickly, while EV chargers with a lower maximum amperage will usually be less expensive. Note that the effective maximum amperage will, however, be limited by the circuit capacity. National Electric Code dictates that a continuous load's draw (an EV charger is considered a continuous load) should be limited to 80% of the circuit's capacity. If the circuit has a 50 amp breaker, for instance, the maximum output will be 40 amps (which is 80% of 50 amps), regardless of the EV charger's rating
  • App Capabilities: The manufacturers of EV chargers all offer a smart app to allow use of the EV charger to be monitored and controlled. Typical capabilities through the app include the ability to set the current limit, schedule charging, and monitor charging activity, and receive notifications when charging is complete, but there may be differences worth considering
  • ENERGY STAR®: EV chargers that are ENERGY STAR certified use 40% less electricity when in standby mode than conventional EV chargers. Since most EV chargers are in standby mode 85% of the time, selecting a charger that is ENERGY STAR certified will help to reduce wasteful energy use. (source: energystar.gov)

Differentiators

Following are key dfferentiators between some of the available brands.

  • Support for Multiple EVs: For households with more than one electric vehicle: it may be desirable to be able to charge each simultaneously. The usual requirement would be to have a dedicated circuit run to each EV Charger.  Wallbox allows two EV chargers to be attached to the same circuit, with the chargers able to share the available electricty between them
  • Charging Networks: Beyond being able to use the ChargePoint app to control and monitor the EV charger installed at the house, users are also able to use the ChargePoint app to find and utilize ChagePoint's growing public charging network
  • Renewble Systems Integration: For homes with on-site solar power generation, Wallbox offers the ability to select whether to charge only when solar power is being generated, or to allow charging from a mix of renewable and grid-supplied electricity

Summary

Electric vehicles are central to decarbonization initiatives, but the user experience can be further enhanced through the convenience of at-home charging. Selecting an EV charger suitable for the location, the vehicle, and one that it ENERGY STAR® certified will help to maximize the benefits of EV ownership.

Disclaimer: The content presented on this page was prepared by the individual(s) listed below, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the company or companies utilizing this site.

Contributor: Philip Scarbro

© , AM Conservation, All Rights Reserved.

To order through this online store you must be a residential customer of PSEG Long Island with a delivery address within PSEG Long Island's service territory. All orders ship within 1 to 3 weeks from purchase. This product offering is intended solely as a benefit to PSEG Long Island customers. PSEG Long Island receives no revenue relating to product sales. Any product purchased on the marketplace already has the PSEG Long Island rebate instantly applied. Any submissions for a rebate on the purchase of a product from the marketplace afterwards is not eligible for an additional rebate. Please note, the utility incentive cannot exceed 50% of the retail price listed on the store for lighting, thermostats, and appliances. The utility incentive cannot exceed 80% of the retail price listed on the store for advanced power strips. Incentives do vary.

Shipping: Most orders for in-stock products will ship within 1 to 3 weeks from purchase, some may take 2 to 4 weeks.

Prices shown exclude applicable sales tax and shipping. Applicable sales tax is based on the full retail price of the product less any marketplace discounts and will be applied to the order at the checkout page. The PSEG Long Island rebate is taxable.

NACS EV Buyer's Guide: How to Find the Best NACS Home Charger

The electric vehicle market is slowly working towards inclusivity, and it all starts with the charging standard. For the longest time, most electric vehicles in North America have used the J plug as the EV charger of choice--except Tesla. Tesla has its own proprietary connector--the Supercharger--which is the first charging network to expand across the country. This expansive coverage, reliability, and simple interface have long been a source of envy for other electric car owners.

However, Tesla is positioning its Supercharger as the new EV charging standard in North America with the release of its design to third-party manufacturers in . Prior to this, the company has tested non-Tesla EV charging in select European cities. In mid-, major carmakers Ford and GM announced their allegiance to the Supercharger even before its standardization by SAE International. While this official standardization is just a few months away, the EV industry is already referring to the Supercharger as the North American Charging Standard (NACS).

What is NACS?

The North American Charging Standard (NACS), also known as the Tesla charging standard or the Tesla Supercharger network, is a charging connector system developed by Tesla Motors. It upgrades existing Tesla chargers with a new protocol designed to improve compatibility and interoperability among various EVs.

Unlike the old connectors that used CAN bus communication, NACS uses power-line communication (PLC). Additionally, NACS follows the ISO protocol, which is also used by Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors. This means it can work with any CCS-enabled EV, allowing different vehicle brands to use the same charging stations easily.

Which electric vehicles currently use NACS?

Earlier this year, Tesla officially opened its Supercharging network to non-Tesla EVs by introducing the "Superchargers Open to NACS" filter on the Tesla app. Ford was the first automaker to take advantage of this with the release of its NACS adapter. In March, Ford started the waitlist for a complimentary adapter to its customers with the first batch shipped weeks after. Rivian followed suit with its own adapter. However, both automakers encountered an overwhelming number of registrants, causing delays in shipping. Third-party NACS to CCS adapters like Lectron's Vortex Plug, which started pre-selling in the latter part of , could fill this void.

By , major EV manufacturers like Ford, Audi, and BMW are expected to start using NACS ports in their vehicles. For the complete list of EVs shifting to NACS, refer to this article. This widespread adoption shows a move towards a common charging standard that can serve multiple brands, making the EV charging process simpler and more efficient. The NACS is a big step forward in EV charging technology, promoting better compatibility and paving the way for more convenient and extensive charging infrastructure.

What charging networks support NACS

As of writing, only the Tesla Supercharging network has native NACS support for both AC and DC fast charging. However, J EVs can use any Tesla Wall Connector, Mobile Connector, or Destination Charger with a Tesla to J adapter.

Tesla's Supercharger network is one of the most extensive and well-established charging networks globally, with nearly 2,000 Supercharger stations and over 17,000 chargers across the United States. These stations are strategically located along major travel routes, enabling Tesla vehicle owners to undertake long-distance journeys confidently. Additionally, Tesla has partnered with other companies to integrate the Tesla Destination Charger network, which is installed in various locations such as hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.

In June , Electrify America announced its plan to add NACS connectors to its fast-charging network in both the United States and Canada. By , Electrify America aims to offer Tesla plug options at both existing and future charging stations. This initiative is part of Electrify America's commitment to promoting vehicle interoperability and simplifying public charging. The network will continue to support the Combined Charging System (CCS-1) connector while introducing the NACS plug type to accommodate automakers integrating NACS charge ports.

In July , BMW Group, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis NV announced a joint venture to create a new charging network. This partnership plans to install at least 30,000 high-powered charge points in urban and highway locations across North America, accessible to all EV customers and offering both CCS and NACS connectors. The first of these charging stations is scheduled to open in the summer of , significantly expanding the charging infrastructure and providing EV owners with more accessibility and flexibility.

What current EV drivers need to know

For current EV drivers, the shift towards the North American Charging Standard (NACS) will have varying impacts depending on the type of vehicle they own.

If you own a Tesla, the transition will likely make charging more convenient. As more charging networks start to adopt the NACS, Tesla owners will have access to a greater number of charging locations across the country. This expansion will enhance the flexibility and ease of long-distance travel for Tesla drivers.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of EV Charging Adapter. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

For those who own a non-Tesla EV with a CCS port, the immediate impact will be minimal. Initially, most third-party charging networks will continue to support the CCS standard as they gradually introduce NACS connectors. This transition will occur in phases, meaning that some charging stations will feature NACS connectors while others will retain CCS connectors.

As the adoption of NACS becomes more widespread, non-Tesla EV owners may encounter charging stations equipped only with NACS connectors. In these situations, using an adapter will become necessary to charge your vehicle. Some charging stations might provide adapters, but in other cases, you may need to have your own adapter to ensure you can use the available charging infrastructure.

Overall, while Tesla owners can look forward to increased convenience, non-Tesla EV drivers should prepare for a gradual shift that may eventually require charging adapters, to maintain access to a broad range of charging options.

What this means for Tesla drivers

For Tesla drivers, the widespread adoption of the NACS brings several key benefits and changes.

Firstly, the primary advantage is the increased accessibility to charging stations. As more third-party charging networks adopt the NACS, Tesla owners will have access to a significantly larger number of charging locations across the country. This means that long-distance travel will become even more convenient, as the network of compatible charging stations expands beyond Tesla's Supercharger network.

Secondly, the integration of NACS into various charging networks will likely reduce wait times at charging stations. With more available stations, Tesla drivers will have more options, potentially decreasing congestion at busy Supercharger locations. This improvement in infrastructure could lead to a smoother and more efficient charging experience.

Additionally, the move towards a unified charging standard can foster greater interoperability within the EV community. This shift could result in increased collaboration between different automakers and charging network providers, further enhancing the overall EV charging ecosystem. For Tesla drivers, this means a more seamless and integrated charging experience, as the industry moves towards standardization.

Lastly, as NACS becomes more prevalent, Tesla drivers might find themselves benefiting from advancements in charging technology and infrastructure brought about by broader industry adoption. These advancements could include faster charging speeds, improved reliability, and enhanced user experiences at various charging stations.

What prospective EV owners need to know

If you are buying a new EV during this period, you are entering the market at a transitional time. Currently, most non-Tesla EVs come equipped with CCS ports, but as North America shifts towards the NACS connector, the availability of CCS charging ports might gradually decrease. It will take at least a year before non-Tesla EV manufacturers start building NACS connectors into their cars. This means that if you buy a non-Tesla EV now, you might eventually need to use an adapter to charge at stations with NACS connectors.

For Tesla owners, the shift to NACS will likely make things easier. As more charging networks adopt NACS, Tesla drivers will have access to a wider range of charging locations across the country, enhancing convenience and travel flexibility.

If you own or plan to buy a non-Tesla EV with a CCS port, your experience will remain largely unchanged in the near term. Third-party charging networks will continue to support CCS connectors, though they may gradually introduce NACS connectors over time. Initially, some charging stations will offer NACS connectors while others will retain CCS connectors. As the transition progresses, you might find that having an adapter is useful to charge electric cars at NACS-equipped stations. Some stations may provide these adapters, but in other cases, you will need to have your own.

For those considering buying a new EV, it might be worth waiting a bit longer until the transition to NACS is complete, especially if you prefer a non-Tesla brand. Alternatively, purchasing a Tesla ensures that you will have a vehicle with what appears to be the emerging standard connector in the U.S. However, even if you buy a non-Tesla EV now, it will likely be several years before it becomes challenging to find charging stations with CCS connectors. Using an adapter will likely become a manageable solution for most EV owners.

For many buyers, using an adapter to charge occasionally will not be a significant issue, particularly for those who primarily charge at home. Home charging setups can be equipped with CCS chargers or adapters, ensuring a seamless charging experience. Thus, while the transition may cause some initial uncertainty, the long-term benefits of a unified charging standard are likely to outweigh the temporary inconveniences.

The Best NACS EV Chargers for Your Home

If you're in the market for the Best EV charger compatible with NACS, we've compiled a comprehensive list for you.

Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger

The Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger offers the convenience of Level 2 charging speeds without the need for a fixed, wall-mounted unit. This portable charger is designed specifically for Tesla models and electric vehicles that use the North American Charging Standard (NACS), ensuring full compatibility. It plugs directly into a 240V outlet, providing up to 9.6 kW / 40 Amp output, which translates to approximately 36 miles of range per hour. One of its key advantages is its portability, allowing it to be used almost anywhere that has a NEMA 14-50 outlet, making it a versatile and flexible charging solution for Tesla owners.

Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station

The Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station is a versatile and powerful EV charger designed for all Tesla models, including the upcoming Cybertruck. It offers multiple amp settings (16, 32, 40, and 48A) for flexible charging, and can be easily connected to a NEMA 14-50 outlet or hardwired into your home's electrical panel. With a 16-foot charging cable and a sleek V-shaped LED light status indicator, this Energy Star-certified charger provides convenient and user-friendly charging at home. It comes with a complimentary NACS mount for cable organization and boasts UL and FCC certifications, as well as an IP65 rating for safety and reliability.

The Wi-Fi version of V-Box Pro EV Charging Station offers additional features, including app access through the Lectron App. With Wi-Fi connectivity, users can control their charging schedule remotely and track charging progress in real-time. The app also allows for customization of energy consumption, providing added convenience and flexibility for users.

Universal Wall Connector

The Universal Wall Connector is Tesla's solution for households with two electric vehicles, one Tesla and one non-Tesla. It offers a powerful charging capability, adding up to 44 miles of range per hour with its 11.5 kW / 48 amp output. An integrated J adapter allows it to charge any electric vehicle conveniently, while the auto-sensing handle simplifies the charging process for Tesla vehicles by automatically opening the Tesla charge port. Users can monitor and manage their charging schedule and usage through the Tesla app, which enhances convenience and control. The Wall Connector features Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics, and access controls, ensuring it remains up-to-date and functional.

Comparing NACS Home Chargers

To help you choose the best NACS home charger, here's a comparison table:

While the Tesla Universal Wall Connector offers ample cable length and compatibility with both Tesla and J vehicles, its fixed wall-mounted design limits portability and flexibility. Additionally, its maximum charging speed is limited to 44mph, which is slower than that of the V-Box Pro's 46mph.

The Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger provides portability and flexibility with its ability to plug into a 240V outlet or be hardwired into a home's electrical panel. However, it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and offers a slightly slower charging speed compared to the Lectron V-BOX Pro Charging Station.

The Lectron V-BOX Pro Charging Station stands out with its compatibility with all Tesla models and EVs using NACS, multiple amp settings for flexible charging, and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control, real-time monitoring, and energy customization. It also offers a slightly faster charging speed than the Tesla Universal Wall Connector and provides the same level of certifications and ratings for safety and reliability.

The V-Box Pro is the perfect balance between the portability of the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger and the speed and connectivity of the Universal Wall Connector.

The company is the world’s best Electric Charging Station Manufacturers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.