Glossary

AC vs DC charging

AC needs conversion inside the car; DC feeds the battery directly.

Alternating current (AC) is what the grid delivers. Level 1 and Level 2 stations supply AC, and the car's onboard charger converts it to DC for the battery.

Direct current (DC) fast chargers convert AC to DC inside the station and push it straight to the pack, which is why they can deliver much higher power.