Fast Charging vs. Level 2 Charging: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Fleet

Key Points Summary

• Fast Charging delivers rapid energy (up to 80% in about 20–30 minutes) and is ideal for fleets with tight turnaround schedules—but it comes with higher installation costs and potential battery impacts [1, 2].
• Level 2 Charging uses standard AC power to charge vehicles over several hours (often overnight), offering a cost-effective and simpler solution for fleets with longer dwell times [3, 4].
• Cost Implications: Fast charging requires robust infrastructure and higher upfront investment, while Level 2 charging is easier on your budget with lower installation and operational costs [11, 12].
• Ideal Use Cases: Fast charging works best for high-utilization fleets (like taxis, delivery vans, or school buses on strict schedules), whereas Level 2 charging is best for depot-based or workplace fleets [13, 14, 15].
• V2X Technology: Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) allows fleets—notably school bus fleets—to both consume and feed energy back into the grid or buildings, optimizing energy usage [16–19].
• Financial Incentives & Carbon Credits: Programs like the CleanBC Go Electric Fleet Incentives offer rebates (which may not be around much longer), and carbon credits can help offset operating expenses. Electrum handles the entire rebate process as well as the serializing and monetization of carbon credits [20, 21].
• Demand Charges & Utility Incentives: While DC Fast Charging (Level 3) often results in higher demand charges, utilities like BC Hydro offer reductions during specific times to facilitate fleet electrification [22].

Introduction

As the transportation industry shifts toward cleaner, electric solutions, fleet managers face a critical choice: which EV charging technology best fits their operational needs? Whether you’re managing a busy taxi fleet, a school bus system, or a delivery service, understanding the differences between fast charging and Level 2 charging is essential. And with the emerging promise of V2X (vehicle-to-everything) technologies, your fleet can soon do more than just charge—it can also power buildings or feed energy back into the grid.

In this article, we explore the benefits, challenges, and cost implications of each charging method. We also showcase how Electrum’s real-world projects, current financial incentives, and carbon credit services make fleet electrification a smart, future-proof investment.

Understanding Fast Charging and Level 2 Charging

Fast Charging

Fast charging (often referred to as DC fast charging) is engineered to deliver a quick energy boost, bringing an EV battery to about 80% charge in roughly 20–30 minutes [1]. This rapid turnaround is a major advantage for fleets that need their vehicles back on the road quickly—think of busy taxi services or school buses with tight schedules.

That speed comes at a cost, however. Fast charging systems require significant electrical upgrades—including heavy-duty transformers and dedicated high-power circuits—which increases installation expenses. In addition, frequent fast charging can, in some cases, accelerate battery wear [2, 7].

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging uses AC power and typically delivers between 3.3 kW and 19.2 kW. While it takes several hours to fully charge an EV, it fits perfectly with overnight or extended dwell-time scenarios. This method is more cost-effective and easier to integrate into existing infrastructure—ideal for depots, workplaces, and operations with predictable downtime [3, 4].

Comparing the Pros and Cons

Fast Charging: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Speed: Rapid charging minimizes downtime—critical for fleets that require quick turnarounds [5].
• Operational Flexibility: Keeps vehicles in service longer, which is vital for high-demand fleets [6].

Cons:

• High Infrastructure Investment: Robust electrical systems and high-power circuits drive up upfront costs [2].
• Battery Impact: Frequent fast charging might accelerate battery degradation in some EV models [7].

Level 2 Charging: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lower Cost: More affordable installation and operating expenses make this a budget-friendly option [3].
• Simplicity: Easily integrates with existing electrical systems at depots or workplaces [8].

Cons:

• Longer Charging Times: Not ideal for fleets needing rapid vehicle turnaround [9].
• Limited Power Output: May not meet the demands of fleets requiring ultra-fast turnaround [10].

Cost Implications and Operational Considerations

When planning your fleet’s charging strategy, it’s essential to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO):

• Installation Costs: Fast charging systems often require significant electrical upgrades. For example, Electrum’s project at Peterbilt Pacific Inc. involved deploying three 120 kW ABB DC fast chargers across Surrey, Delta, and Nanaimo—ensuring rapid vehicle turnaround and future-proofing for high-demand commercial fleets [11].
• Operational Costs: Level 2 charging typically offers lower ongoing expenses, making it ideal for fleets with predictable, extended downtime [12].

Electrum’s extensive experience in deploying both fast and Level 2 charging systems means we design solutions tailored to your fleet’s unique operational needs and budget.

Managing Demand Charges and Utility Incentives

DC Fast Charging (Level 3) systems draw significantly higher power in a short period, which can lead to elevated demand charges on your utility bill. Demand charges are fees based on the peak power usage during your billing cycle, and they can add considerably to operating costs.

Recognizing the challenges posed by these charges, some utility companies—like BC Hydro—offer incentive programs to help fleets manage and reduce demand charges. For example, BC Hydro provides reduced demand charges during specific off-peak periods or times of the day, thereby lowering the overall cost of fast charging [22]. Electrum works closely with utility companies and employs advanced load management strategies to ensure your charging system benefits from these incentives.

Electrum in Action: Fleet Charging Success Stories

Peterbilt, BC
Electrum installed three 120 kW ABB DC fast chargers at the Peterbilt Pacific Inc. sites in Surrey, Delta, and Nanaimo.

• Operational Efficiency: High-power fast chargers dramatically reduced vehicle downtime, keeping fleets in motion.
• Future-Proofing: These chargers are designed to meet current demands and future technological advancements.
• Load Management: Advanced load management strategies were implemented to prevent electrical overloads, ensuring smooth operation.

Frito-Lay Pepsico, Surrey, BC
Electrum’s installation at Frito-Lay Pepsico involved a combination of 1 x 120 kW DC fast charger and 10 x 80A Ford chargers. The project also featured a 225 kVA transformer and a 600A panel with oversized conduit to support future expansion.

• Operational Efficiency: The deployment of high-capacity 80A chargers cut charging times, enabling faster turnaround for fleet vehicles.
• Future-Proofing: Oversized conduits and extra junction points ensure that the infrastructure is ready for fleet growth.
• Load Management: Careful circuit planning prevented system overloads, maintaining optimal performance across all chargers.

Financial Incentives and Carbon Credits

Electrifying your fleet isn’t just about operational efficiency—it also comes with financial benefits. Current programs, such as the CleanBC Go Electric Fleet Incentives [20], offer attractive rebates to help offset the cost of upgrading to electric vehicles and installing charging infrastructure. These rebates may not be around much longer, so now is the time to act. Rest assured, Electrum will handle the entire rebate process—from application to approval—making it seamless for you.

Moreover, switching to an electric fleet can help you earn carbon credits that offset operating expenses. As a carbon credit aggregator, Electrum takes care of the serializing and monetization of these credits—helping you boost your bottom line while contributing to a greener future [21].

The Emerging Role of V2X in Fleet Operations

In addition to fast and Level 2 charging, V2X (vehicle-to-everything) technology is transforming fleet operations. V2X enables vehicles not only to charge but also to discharge energy back to the grid (V2G) or power buildings (V2B). This is particularly relevant for school bus fleets and other operations with centralized parking facilities.

• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): EVs can feed excess energy into the grid during peak demand, potentially reducing energy costs or even generating revenue [16, 17].
• Vehicle-to-Building (V2B): EVs can supply power to buildings during outages or peak usage periods. For example, school bus fleets might one day help power school facilities when needed [18, 19].

By integrating V2X technology, fleet operators can unlock additional revenue streams and further optimize energy management.

Making the Decision: Which Charging Solution Fits Your Fleet?

Choosing the right charging solution depends on your fleet’s specific needs. Ask yourself:

• What is your operational schedule?
  Fleets needing quick turnaround may lean toward fast charging, while those with extended idle times might find Level 2 charging perfectly adequate.
• What is your current infrastructure?
  Evaluate the costs and feasibility of necessary electrical upgrades.
• What is your budget?
  Weigh the initial investment against long-term operational savings.
• Can you leverage energy management opportunities?
  With V2X and the ability to earn carbon credits, your fleet can become an energy asset.

Electrum’s proven success with projects like Peterbilt Pacific Inc. and Frito-Lay Pepsico, combined with our expertise in handling rebates, demand charge incentives, and carbon credit monetization, means we’re well-equipped to design a solution that fits your fleet’s unique requirements.

Conclusion

Choosing the right charging solution for your fleet is a critical decision that influences efficiency, cost, and long-term performance. Fast charging offers rapid energy delivery for high-utilization vehicles, while Level 2 charging provides a cost-effective, reliable option for fleets with predictable downtime. Coupled with the innovative possibilities of V2X technology, available rebates like the CleanBC Go Electric Fleet Incentives, utility demand charge reductions from companies like BC Hydro, and the financial benefits of carbon credits, electrification becomes a compelling, future-proof investment.

At Electrum Charging Solutions, we combine industry-leading technology with real-world project success to tailor solutions that power your fleet forward. If you’re looking to electrify your fleet—and want expert guidance on everything from rebate processing and demand charge management to carbon credit monetization—book a free consultation with one of our team members today.

Thanks for reading!

References

1. U.S. Department of Energy – Fast Charging Overview: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_infrastructure.html
2. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) – Fast Charging Research: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy18osti/70334.pdf
3. U.S. Department of Energy – EV Charging Levels: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_infrastructure.html#charging-levels
4. Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) – EV Charging Overview: https://evitp.org/training/
5. U.S. Department of Energy – Fast Charging Benefits: https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/batteries-charging-and-electric-vehicles
6. IEEE Spectrum – Fast Charging for EV Fleets: https://spectrum.ieee.org/dc-fast-charger
7. Journal of Power Sources – Impact of Fast Charging: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy15osti/63700.pdf
8. EV Infrastructure – Level 2 Charging Overview: https://www.evitp.org/ev-charging/
9. National Renewable Energy Laboratory – EV Charging Comparison: https://www.nrel.gov/transportation/ev-charging.html
10. IEEE Xplore – Comparative Analysis of EV Charging: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7871634
11. U.S. Department of Energy – Charging Infrastructure Costs: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_infrastructure.html
12. National Renewable Energy Laboratory – Cost Analysis: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy18osti/70334.pdf
13. U.S. Department of Energy – Fast Charging Applications: https://www.energy.gov/articles/fast-charging-electric-vehicles
14. American Public Transportation Association (APTA) – Fast Charging for Buses: https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/fast-charging/
15. U.S. Department of Energy – Workplace Charging: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_infrastructure.html#workplace
16. U.S. Department of Energy – Vehicle Grid Integration: https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/future-of-vehicle-grid-integration.pdf
17. NREL – Electric Vehicles Play a Surprising Role in Supporting Grid Resiliency: https://www.nrel.gov/news/program/2023/evs-play-surprising-role-in-supporting-grid-resiliency.html
18. Science Direct - Journal of Energy Storage – "A comprehensive overview of vehicle to everything (V2X) technology for sustainable EV adoption": https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X23027020
19. Science Direct - Sustainable Energy, Grids, and Networks - Optimal integration of Vehicle to Building (V2B) and Building to Vehicle (B2V) technologies for commercial buildings: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352467722001667
20. CleanBC – Go Electric Fleet Incentives: https://pluginbc.ca/go-electric-fleets/
21. EPA – What Are Carbon Credits?: https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/what-carbon-credits
22. BC Hydro: https://app.bchydro.com/accounts-billing/rates-energy-use/electricity-rates/fleet-electrification-rates.html