Charging an Electric Vehicle with a Generator

With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), many are wondering- can a generator charge an electric vehicle? At Integra Electric, we offer generator services that can help EV owners explore this option. In this blog post, we will discuss the feasibility of charging an EV with a generator.

Can You Charge an Electric Vehicle with a Generator?

Yes, it is possible to charge an electric vehicle with a generator. However, it is essential to note that not all generators are equal, and some may not be suitable for charging an EV. When the power goes out, the generator takes over and we typically recommend using a generator with 240 volts output.

Level 1 Charging with a Generator

Level 1 charging with a generator is the slowest method of charging an EV, as it uses a standard 120-volt outlet. To charge an EV using a Level 1 charger and a generator, a generator with a capacity of at least 3.5 kilowatts is necessary. It can take up to 20 hours to fully charge an EV with this method, making it suitable for overnight charging when a faster charging option is not available.

Level 2 Charging with a Generator

Level 2 charging with a generator is a faster method of charging an EV, as it uses a 240-volt outlet. To charge an EV using a Level 2 charger and a generator, a generator with a capacity of at least 5.5 kilowatts is necessary. It can take 4 to 8 hours to fully charge an EV with this method, making it suitable for home charging or charging at a remote location where Level 2 charging is not available.

Charging an Electric Vehicle with a Generator

While it’s possible to charge an electric vehicle using a generator, not all generators are suitable and it may not be the most practical option. If your generator can handle it, it’s advisable to use Level 2 charging as it charges faster. However, before deciding to use a generator, it’s important to consider the associated costs, noise, and emissions.