EV Charging Guide

If you are ready to revolutionize all your drives in Wilsonville, Beaverton, and beyond, the Mercedes-Benz lineup offers a wide range of electric vehicle options, including the EQS SUV and EQE Sedan. But if you are new to EV ownership, you may have some questions about how to keep your vehicle properly charged. What are the EV charging types? Where can you charge an EV in the Portland area? Can a Mercedes-Benz EV charge on any connector? Mercedes-Benz of Portland answers these questions and more in this tutorial on EV charging levels.

What are the EV Charging Types?

There are three EV charging levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3/DC Fast Charging. They each have different power requirements and deliver different rates of charging speed. Take a closer look at the EV charging types and how they work:

Level 1 Charging 

• Best suited to topping off your charge or for PHEVs, which have smaller batteries
• Expect around 24 hours or more for a full charge
• Mostly for residential use, as Level 1 chargers require no special installation
• Needs a 120-volt household outlet, a charging cord with a standard plug-in, and a J1772 connector

Level 2 Charging

• Available at public charging stations in Vancouver and throughout the area; Level 2 chargers can also be professionally installed at home
• Expect about 4 to 10 hours (EVs) or 1 to 2 hours (PHEVs) for an 80% charge
• Needs a 240-volt outlet and a J1772 connector
• Perfect for overnight charging

Level 3 Charging /DC Fast Charging

• Exclusively found at public stations due to their increased power needs
• Expect 30 minutes to one hour to recoup an 80% charge
• Most non-Tesla fast chargers need an SAE Combined Charging System connector

Can a Mercedes-Benz EV Charge on Any Connector?

Now that you know about the EV charging levels, you may be wondering, “Can a Mercedes-Benz EV charge on any connector?” As of this writing, the automaker’s EVs are only compatible with Combined Charging System (CCS) Type 1 fast chargers. EVs from most major brands (excluding Tesla) work with the CCS system. Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint are just a few EV charging stations that utilize this system.

Where Can You Charge an EV?

If you are curious about where you can charge an EV in the local area, there is no shortage of EV charging stations to choose from, including Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3/DC Fast Charging options. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date listings, consult the interactive maps provided by the Department of Energy, PlugShare, or Chargemap. In the meantime, here are just a few convenient stations in the area:

• 700 SW Campus Dr. (Blink)
• 2170 NW Raleigh St. (EVgo)
• 3706 SE 164th Ave. (ChargePoint)
• 7555 SW Barbur Blvd. (Electrify America)

Find Your Next EV at Mercedes-Benz of Portland

As you can see, EV ownership is easy and stress-free. When you are ready to invest in a luxury electric model, browse our current inventory, then contact us to schedule a test drive. Until then, feel free to continue your Mercedes-Benz research online. We are confident we have an EV that will check all the boxes on your wishlist—and many more.