Equipment specifically designed to facilitate the recharging of EVs, NEEVs, and plug-in hybrids from an external power source is known as a charging station. Some electric vehicle charging stations are more high-tech than others, with features including Smart metering, cell phone connectivity, and network access.

Electric utility providers and private businesses both install charging stations in public parking lots and retail shopping centers, respectively. These charging stations feature specialized plugs that are compatible with the many different types of electrical charging connectors.

Use fees for EVSE range from fixed monthly or annual prices to per-kWh and hourly pricing. Governments often finance charging stations so that they are free to the public.

The rate at which an EVSE can charge varies depending on its design. Level 1 charging stations provide around 5 miles of range for every hour of charging, using a 120 volt (V), alternating-current (AC) connector and requiring a dedicated circuit. In order to charge at a Level 2 station, either private or public charging infrastructure with a 240V, AC connector must be installed. For every hour spent charging at a Level 2 station, a vehicle can add 10–20 miles to its range. The most popular type of charger is a Level 2, which charges about as fast as a standard home outlet.

DC fast chargers are another name for a Level 3 charger. The 480V DC connector is used at Level 3. Instead of using the vehicle’s built-in charger, they connect directly to the battery using DC power. However, not all vehicles are compatible with DC Fast Chargers, despite the fact that they may add up to 40 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Some proprietary charging stations, like the Tesla Supercharger, are built for even faster charging.

Faster charging at higher voltages and currents than are currently available from domestic ESVE are necessities as the demand for publicly accessible charging stations develops. Charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more widely available as the number of EV networks grows worldwide. Agreements have been reached between governments, automakers, and charging infrastructure suppliers to establish these systems.