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How much electricity do car chargers use?

I’ve been riding my bike around Toronto for years, but my new husband has a 2021 Polestar 2. He wants me to start using it, but I’m hesitant to consume a high amount of energy when I could just ride my bike. Can you tell me how much electricity car chargers use?

avatar
Elaine Duvet · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I hear you! I know
Toronto
is a very bike-friendly city and makes it easy for bikers to get around! I always say if you get lost, just look for the CN Tower, and then you’ll know where you are! I think you’ll be happy to know that car charges don’t use as much electricity as you may think.
Here’s what we know about how much electric energy car chargers use:
  • In theory, you only need about 15 amps to actually charge your EV, but that would take forever. Home chargers use about 40 amps while public charging stations consume closer to 500 amps.
  • If you’re using a home charger, it will likely be one that uses alternating current (AC) **as opposed to a faster **direct current (DC) found at
    public charging points
    .
  • Home chargers typically use either a Level 1 or Level 2 outlet. A Level 1 outlet produces power at 120-volt AC. A Level 2 charger offers consumers a higher voltage with 240-volt AC.
  • Public charging stations are where you’ll find a Level 3 electric charger that uses 480-V.
Now that you can feel better about driving the Polestar 2, you’ll have an awesome way to get around the city in the winter months. You know what’s also awesome? Having extra cash in your pocket. Did you know most of us are overpaying for our car insurance every month and don’t even know it?
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