Understanding Electric Vehicle Charging Indicators and Signals
When it comes to knowing if your electric vehicle (EV) is charging, there are a variety of indicators and signals you need to be aware of. Similar to gasoline vehicles, electric cars also have their own ways to display the status of the battery and the charging process. In this article, we will delve into the different types of indicators and signals that help you monitor the charging status of your electric vehicle.
Indicators on the Dashboard
One of the most prominent indicators on an electric vehicle is the one on the dashboard. Typically, there are three lights that illuminate one by one to show the battery charge level. These lights can usually be seen both inside and outside the vehicle, especially when it is being charged. Additionally, many modern electric vehicles come with an app that can be installed on your smartphone or tablet to monitor the charging status remotely.
Indicators During Charging
Before starting the charging process, you will hear a couple of clunks as the relays activate to power up the inverter. This process can be quite powerful, similar to when an internal combustion engine (ICE) car is starting up. Once the car is powered up, a large light on the dashboard will illuminatetypically the charge status light.
At the charging station, there will be a big display that shows the full diagnosis of the charging process. This display provides comprehensive information about the charging status, such as the current charging power, the progress of the charge, and the estimated time to completion. Hence, there are actually five types of indicators in total: the clunk sounds, the lights on the dashboard, the in-dash display, and the big display at the charging station.
Specific Models
Each electric vehicle brand and model may have its unique signaling methods. Let's take the Tesla as an example. The Tesla dashboard computer will notify you if the car is plugged in and if it is charging. The Tesla app can also be used to monitor the charging status from almost anywhere, as long as you have cell phone or Wi-Fi access. The app provides extensive information, such as the current state of the car, the location, door statuses, tire pressures, driving speed, and charging status.
Furthermore, the charging port of the car also has its own indicator light that shows the status of the connection and the charging process. The charger will also display when power is flowing to the car. This level of detail ensures that you can keep a close eye on the charging process, regardless of your location.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are multiple ways to know if an electric vehicle is charging. From the clunking sounds to the display of the onboard computer and the app, there are several indicators that can help you monitor the charging status of your vehicle. Whether you are inside or outside the car, or even remotely, you can have a clear picture of how your electric vehicle is charging. It is highly recommended to read the owner's manual for specific instructions on your vehicle's charging indicators and methods.