Level 3 Home Charger

[RobJones]

I picked up a new i3 REX last night and by the time the deal was done, it was well past the dealership's closing time. However, the Genius offered to stay as late as I wanted to go over the features of the car. But I was getting very hungry, it was getting late, and it was getting cold. So we made an appointment for next week for me to come back for an "Encore" session.

During the overview he went over the car's basic features and functions and pointed out that it's equipped with the capability of using a Level 3 charging station and that it would be fairly straightforward to install the proper equipment at home. After charging it overnight from a standard 110V outlet, it's obvious that I'm going to need a more robust charging system and want to know more about installing a Level 3 unit. Some Googling this morning didn't turn up any useful details, though. Can anyone elaborate on what I'd need to have Level 3 charging capability at home? Is it worth skipping the Level 2 and going straight to 3?

 

[i3atl]

No, you would want Level 2 at home. Level 3 isn't really the correct terminology, but he was probably referring to DC Fast Charging.

The discussion around Level 2 EVSEs, and which one to buy, comes up almost daily on the main Facebook group, and is discussed often in the local group as well. The main group is one of the best sources available for feedback on the various EVSEs and how well they function with the i3.

Here's the link to both:
Main group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BMWi3/
Atlanta group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/atlbmwevowners/

 

[i3atl]

By the way, there's a DCFC near you in Perry, in case you want to check it out. You'll need the Greenlots app (and an account with them) in order to use it. I suggest trying it at least once so that you're familiar with the process.

Location details: http://api.plugshare.com/view/location/66912

 

[RobJones]

Awesome info - thanks! And now that you mention it, I do believe he was referring to the DCFC.

There is so much to learn about this car! The newest vehicle I own is a 2003 BMW Z4. All the new data I'm processing almost overwhelming! So I'm thankful for this board and the folks who have a head start on me.

 

[justanotherdrunk]

I get free (included), unlimited DC Fast Charging thru 6/30/16 with the lease.

Doesn't everyone?

 

[i3atl]

I get free (included), unlimited DC Fast Charging thru 6/30/16 with the lease.

Doesn't everyone?

Prior to Nov 1, 2015, this was only valid in CA.

For purchases after Nov 1, it applies to the markets listed here: http://chargenow.chargepoint.com/fast-charging

Of course that only applies at NRG (and possibly some Chargepoint) units. We have many L2 NRG stations around town, but every NRG DCFC in GA is CHAdeMO-only except for one they recently converted as part of the new program. This program will be more valuable as they upgrade the gear to dual-standard.

The unit listed above is on the Greenlots network, and not part of the free charging promotion.