The network of public stations is growing in Brazil, but it is still limited in many regions. Therefore, seeing the electric car charging at home has become the most practical choice for many drivers.
Charging your electric car in the garage has clear advantages: in addition to being a simple plug-and-play process, where you just need to connect the cable to start charging, it is also more convenient, economical, and you have complete control over the process. Just leave your electric car charging overnight and start the day with a full battery — no lines, no detours.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about electric car charging at home: the types of chargers, the ideal installation, and tips to ensure safety and efficiency in your daily life.
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Key points on how to charge your electric car at home:
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Understanding the power grid in Brazil
Before leaving your electric car charging at home, it is essential to understand how electrical voltage works in Brazil. The country has a dual voltage system, which means that some regions operate at 127V and others at 220V. For example, cities such as São Paulo, Manaus, and Belém usually use 127V in homes. In places like Recife, Brasília, and Porto Alegre, the residential standard is 220V.
How does voltage influence charging speed?
This difference in voltage directly impacts the speed at which an electric car charges. In general, the higher the voltage, the faster the charging. A residential charger connected to a 220V network can charge the vehicle in half the time compared to a 127V charger, provided that the equipment and installation are adequate.
In other words, to ensure efficient electric car charging, it is worth checking the voltage in your home and considering adjustments, if necessary, to ensure greater speed and safety in the process.
What are the differences between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers for electric vehicles?
To charge your electric car safely and efficiently at home, it is important to understand the two main types of residential chargers: Level 1 and Level 2. Each has its advantages and limitations. The right choice depends on your car, your routine, and the electrical structure of your home.
What is a Level 1 charger for electric vehicles?
This is the charger that usually comes with the vehicle and can be used in a standard 127V or 220V outlet. It is the simplest way to keep your electric car charging at home, without the need for special installation.
What is a Level 2 charger for electric vehicles?
The Level 2 charger is best suited for those who want to experience faster electric car charging. It needs to be installed by an electrician and requires a higher power outlet (usually 220V with a dedicated circuit breaker).
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Criteria |
Level 1 Charger |
Level 2 Charger (Wallbox) |
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Shape |
Simple cable with portable adapter, plugged directly into the outlet |
Fixed wall-mounted equipment with a robust and ventilated design |
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Installation |
No technical installation required; uses a standard outlet |
Requires dedicated electrical installation by a professional |
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Charging efficiency (63.2 kWh battery) |
Approximately 8.5 hours for a full charge |
Approximately 5.7 hours for a full charge |
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Convenience |
Highly portable, but slow for everyday use |
Much more practical and efficient for intense routines |
If your region only uses the 127V system, is it possible to install a Level 2 charger?
This depends on the electrical capacity of your home and the conditions of the grid, so it is essential to consult a qualified electrician to assess feasibility and advise on the necessary adaptations.
Can GAC electric vehicles be charged with Level 1 or Level 2 chargers?
GAC officially entered the Brazilian market in May 2025, bringing a new generation of 100% electric vehicles with a focus on technology, safety, and efficiency. Among the models launched is the AION Y, an urban SUV that stands out for its range and battery innovation.
One of the strengths of GAC Brazil's electric line is its full compatibility with level 1 and level 2 chargers. This means that all of the brand's BEVs can be charged both from standard outlets and via 220V wallboxes, offering total flexibility to consumers.
What are the incentives and support policies for the installation of residential chargers in Brazil?
The advancement of electric mobility in Brazil has received attention from the federal government, states, and municipalities, with incentives that favor the installation of charging points in homes and condominiums.
1. Federal incentives
- PL 497/25 (pending) proposes a deduction of up to 10% of income tax for individuals and 15% for companies, aimed at investments in residential electric chargers, public stations, and distributed generation, such as solar and microgrids.
- PIS/COFINS exemptions on the sale of charging equipment are also planned, reducing the cost of installing domestic chargers.
2. State and municipal initiatives
In 2025, states such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Pernambuco will continue to offer total or partial IPVA exemptions for electric vehicles.
- In São Paulo, electric cars continue to be fully exempt from IPVA, which represents significant savings for owners.
- In Rio de Janeiro, there is a reduction of up to 75% in the tax, making the use of electric cars even more advantageous.
- Minas Gerais and Pernambuco also adopt tax incentive policies, contributing to the popularization of electric vehicles in these states.
What should you consider in terms of electrical requirements for charging your electric car at home?
Installing a home charging point to keep your electric car charging safely requires attention to the electrical structure of the residence. In Brazil, installations vary greatly from region to region, so it is essential to follow good technical practices.
Always hire a qualified electrician
Due to the complexity of residential wiring in Brazil, especially in older properties or those without a three-phase standard, it is essential to hire a licensed electrician. Only a qualified professional can assess:
- Whether your network can support the charger's load
- What voltage is available (127V or 220V)
- Whether the distribution board needs to be reinforced
Use circuit breakers and surge protectors (DPS)
When keeping the electric car charging for several hours, protecting the network becomes even more important. It is highly recommended to install:
- A dedicated circuit breaker for the charger, with a capacity compatible with the power of the equipment
- SPD (Surge Protection Device), to prevent damage caused by power surges or lightning
Special reminder: This is especially important in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, where power fluctuations and blackouts are more frequent. A well-protected system helps preserve the charger, the car, and the home's electrical network.
Exclusive circuit for the charger
The electric car charger should not share the circuit with other equipment in the home, such as air conditioning or electric showers. It needs an exclusive circuit, with its own wiring and circuit breaker. This ensures:
- Greater safety
- Stability in power supply
- Prevention against electrical overload
How to charge your electric car at home?
In practice, charging your electric car at home may seem simple, almost like plug-and-play: connect the cable and wait for the battery to fill up. And indeed it is — but behind this everyday gesture, there is a whole system that ranges from the public power grid to the dedicated charging circuit inside your home.
Understanding this mechanism — voltage, charger type, surge protection, and the importance of professional installation — makes all the difference in ensuring safety, efficiency, and durability.
That's why GAC Brasil's 100% electric vehicles, such as the AION Y, are designed to easily integrate into the country's electrical reality. All of the brand's models are compatible with level 1 and level 2 chargers and feature advanced battery and thermal management technologies, ideal for home use.
With GAC, you get more than just an electric car: you get a reliable partner for the new era of mobility—one that begins every day with your electric car charging at home.
Reference
- Available at: https://quatrorodas.abril.com.br/carros-eletricos/lei-quer-dar-incetivos-fiscais-para-construcao-de-carregadores-eletricos-no-brasil
- Available at: https://voolta.com.br/blog/incentivos-para-veiculos-eletricos-no-brasil-e-infraestrutura-de-recarga
- Available at: https://atualiza10mundo.com/2025/02/05/quais-sao-os-incentivos-para-carros-eletricos-em-2025-veja-as-novidades/