As electric vehicles continue growing in popularity, an at-home EV charger provides the convenience of charging your EV overnight within the comfort of your own garage. VEVOR produces Level 2 EV chargers aimed at the budget residential market. But how well do these affordable EVSEs perform? I tested out two of VEVOR’s most popular models to find out.
Testing Overview
For this review, I installed and evaluated the VEVOR 9.6kW and 7.2kW Level 2 EV chargers. Installation was straightforward with clear instructions. Using my 2019 Chevy Bolt EV as the test vehicle, I assessed charge times, build quality, app connectivity, safety features and more across 60 days of hands-on testing.
Charge Speed and Power
The main consideration for any EV owner is how quickly their vehicle will charge. Through a 240V 30A circuit, the 9.6kW model outputs 9.6kW of power, averaging about 37 miles of EV range replenished per hour. This allowed a full recharge of my Chevy Bolt from 20% to 100% battery in around 5 hours. The lower-powered 7.2kW unit offers roughly 28 miles per hour charge speed with a 7.2kW output via 240V on a 30A breaker, taking over 6 hours for a full charge. Overall the charging output is in line for the price bracket.
Build Quality and Design
Featuring rugged outer shells, the VEVOR units feel reassuringly sturdy with some heft to them. The charger cables offer durable flexible insulation while staying lightweight enough for daily handling. Installation hardware and internal components also appear neatly constructed. The LED-backlit screens clearly communicate status updates like charging speed and times. However, the cheaper plastic housing doesn’t feel quite as refined or sleek as premium competitors.
Safety Features
These VEVOR EVSEs come equipped with standard safety capabilities like automatic shutdown upon cable disconnect, ground monitoring and over-temperature protection. The lack of an internal GFCI breaker is a downside, meaning you must wire installation through an external GFCI. Overall the essential safety protections are covered but more advanced features like connector locks would offer added peace of mind.
Smart Charging Capabilities
Allowing programmable charging schedules and usage data through a mobile app, the “smart” capabilities proved somewhat disappointing. The apps feel clunky and unintuitive compared to leaders like ChargePoint. But the ability to pre-set charging times is at least helpful for taking advantage of off-peak electrical rates. Just don’t expect advanced reporting. Remote start/stop via app worked decently well with only the occasional hiccup.
Pros
Cons
The Verdict
For budget-focused EV owners without the highest expectations, VEVOR’s Level 2 chargers present a viable lower-priced option. They deliver satisfactory charge rates in a durable package. But subpar smartphone app integration leaves room for improvement. Ultimately convenient connected features and rapid charging speed comes with a price tag. VEVOR makes some reasonable compromises to meet wallet-friendly pricing. Casual EV drivers can appreciate the value proposition in exchange for premium touches.
Comparison to Other Models:
| Feature | VEVOR | Grizzl-E | ChargePoint | Lectron |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Budget-friendly | Premium | Mid-range | Competitive |
| Portability | Portable and compact | No | No | No |
| Amperage | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Durability | Robust | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Warranty | 1 year | 5+ years | 3 years | 3 years |
| App | Limited functionality | Basic | Advanced features | Basic features |
| Customer service | Mixed reviews | Good | Good | Good |
| Brand reputation | Emerging | Strong | Strong | Growing |
Note*
Make sure to check the compatibility of the EV charger with your vehicle and electrical system before making a purchase. It is highly recommended to consult a qualified electrician for a proper installation.
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