BMW home EV chargers • review of proprietary alternatives

by Mike Becker | Reviewed by David Perez | Updated: Nov 15, 2023

The Flexible Fast Charger is good as a portable charging device for your BMW, connecting to 120-volt and even 240-volt. The real fast charger is provided by home stations like the BMW Wallbox and the more powerful models we’ll review here.

Best hardwired EV chargers for BMW

Hardwired chargers such as JuiceBox or Siemens are more convenient than ever before, because it takes up less space on your floor or desk, won’t get unplugged accidentally.

If you live in the US, BMW will send you a home сharging Installation Kit to your address free of charge after purchasing your i4, i7 & iX online at their website. The out-of-pocket cost for home charging installation should be less than $500 , whereas most electricians would charge around $700 to install the same kind of charger.

Some Home Owners Associations (HOA) may not allow certain types of home EV Chargers to be installed, so please check with them before purchasing. If you do not have an outlet installed, or your HOA does not allow home EV Chargers to be installed, there are public charging stations located throughout the US. You can find the nearest charging station by using this website: https://www.plugshare.com/

Best plug-in EV chargers for BMW

We recommend plug-in chargers like Grizzl-E for those who have more than one electric vehicle because they can be used simultaneously and don’t require hardwiring. These types of chargers are less expensive up front but do have some drawbacks as well–you’ll need to remember to unplug them when not in use so they won’t overcharge your battery or overload your electrical system.

How to choose BMW-compatible home EV сhargers

The amperage of your home electric vehicle charger will need to be at least 16 amps, but most home сhargers can be found with 30 amps or more. For the BMW i3, i4, i7 and iX the optimal home сharger would be a Chargepoint 240-volt (50 amp) with weatherproof cover.

Where can I buy an electric vehicle charger?

You can buy home EV Chargers from many different places, but we recommend checking with your local electrician, Home Depot, or Amazon. Home Depot offers the Chargepoint 240-volt (50 amp) home сharger with free shipping. If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can get the same home charger shipped to your door in two days for free.

What’s the difference between Level 1, 2, & 3 chargers?

Level 1 charging uses a standard wall outlet (the same one used for your computer or television) and can take anywhere from 7-30 hours to charge your car depending on how much power your local utility company is supplying at any given time.  A level 1 charger will cost around $200 but it will only give you enough charge for 50 miles of driving per day. This makes level 1 charging impractical for most people.

Level 2 chargers are much more common because they are installed in your garage and connect directly to your electric system.  A level 2 charger can charge a BMW i4, i7 and iX from 0 to 100% in 7-8 hours, so it’s much quicker than the standard home Depot outlet which is why level 2 chargers have rapidly grown in popularity.

Level 3 chargers are the fastest and most expensive type of EV charger, and can charge a BMW i4 & iX models from 0 to 100% in as little as 30 minutes. Level 3 chargers are not commonly found outside of commercial settings such as airports or shopping malls.

What’s the difference between an EV Charger and a Tesla EV Charger?

An EV Charger is compatible with BMW electric vehicles that use the standard J1772 plug, while a Tesla EV Charger is only compatible with Tesla vehicles.

Can I install an EV Charger myself?

Yes, you can install an EV Charger yourself as long as you are comfortable with basic electrical wiring (via NEMA 14-50 or 6-50). EV adept offers a free installation service for all EV Chargers, and most professional electricians are also familiar with installing EVSE.

How do home EV Chargers work?

Home EV chargers work by plugging into a standard outlet in your home and then connecting to the BMW i4, i7 and iX. Once plugged in, the charger will automatically start charging your car. Home EV chargers are available in different amperages, so it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your BMW i4, iX and i7. Most home EV chargers have an amperage of 16 amps, which will work with most electric vehicles.

How Much Will it Cost to Install a Home EV Charger for i4 & i3 models?

Home EV chargers can be installed by either a professional service or by DIY enthusiasts. The cost of installation will vary depending on the type of charger you choose and the amount of work required. Home EV chargers typically range in price from $200 to $1,500.

Charging your BMW i4, iX and i3 at home is easy with a home EV Charger. Home EV chargers are available in different amperages, so make sure to choose one that is compatible with your car. Most home EV Chargers have an amperage of 16 amps, which will work with most electric vehicles.

Calculation of waiting time for charging to a full battery of a BMW i4, i3 and i7

For public networks, the calculation can be done using a calculator.

We can assist you with installing EVSE for the i4, i7, iX.

For your house EV charger, we offer installation services for home chargers, which is a 240-volt Level 2 charging station. Installation includes standard electrical wiring and conduit, as well as all hardware needed for a successful installation. For more information or to schedule an appointment.

Charging modes

There are several different EV charging modes that allow drivers to choose the fastest charge time for their vehicle. Typically, this mode is used for short-term parking and is powered by a 22kW-EV charging station. However, there are also more powerful stations that can deliver higher charging currents. These stations are permanently connected to an AC power grid, integrate control and protection features, and typically have higher charging currents.

Listed below are charging times for the BWM i4 with the eDrive40 or M50 versions. The eDrive40 version charges quickly; the M50 version takes longer, with a 50-mile range. These times are approximate and will vary based on the temperature of the charging station and your vehicle. Listed rates also take into account the current state of your battery, which is important if you’re charging a BMW i4 quickly.

Chargers available

The BMW i4 has an impressive range, and the EV charging specs and guide show just how much you can expect to charge it in eight hours. If you want to charge it faster, you can use a DC fast-charging station. In as little as 10 minutes, the battery pack will have a 90-mile range boost! However, if you are looking for a more efficient charging option, you will have to choose a level two charger.

If you want to charge the BMW i4 at home, you can take advantage of a government grant that saves up to PS350 for a fully-installed charging point. The grant is conditional on a few conditions, though. You must have off-street parking and an OZEV-approved charge point. The public chargers will vary in cost, so you should shop around for the best deal.

Installation

When you’re able to use a 240-volt home charger, your BMW i4 will accept up to 11 kilowatts of power. This is enough power to fully charge the battery in less than eight hours. This is because European power delivery is based on three-phase wiring, which is more efficient than single-phase power flow in the U.S. Most home EV chargers will accept up to seven kilowatts of power, but that is still far less than the amount needed to charge an empty battery.

The guide also lists charging times for the eDrive40 and the M50 versions. The M50 has double the power but 50 miles less range. The charging times given are for a 20% to 80% charge, but this may be different depending on ambient temperature and energy load in the vehicle. Depending on the temperature, the charging rate may be slower. The EV charging times will vary depending on the model you own.

Comparison table – plug-in BMW iX, i7 & i4 EV chargers

	JuiceBox 40 Smart EV Home Charging Station (40 Amp, NEMA 14...	Lectron Level 2 Portable EV Charger (240 Volt, 21ft Cable, ...	Siemens US2 VersiCharge Level 2 Electric Vehicle (EV) Charg...	ChargePoint NEMA 6-50 plug Home Charging Station Level 2 (2...	Emporia Level 2 EV Charging Station (‎240 Volt, 24ft Cable,...
Overview	Reliable and durable charger that can provide up to 7x faster charging. It is also WiFi-enabled, so you can easily connect it to your home network.	Сompact device. The light weight makes it easy to transport.	Durable design. Medium power. Often installed in commercial and residential areas.	Charge Smarter, Not Just Faster. Safe and Reliable for Your Home and Your EV. Works with Any EV. Can be hardwired.	Hardwired connections are eligible up to 48 amps.
Brand	JuiceBox	Lectron	Siemens	chargepoint	Emporia
Amperage	40	32	30	16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 50	16, 24, 32, 40, 48
Cable length, ft	25	21	20	23	24
Outdoor	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Socket	NEMA 14-50	NEMA 14-50	NEMA 6-50	NEMA 6-50	NEMA 14-50
Travel/Portable	No	Yes	No	No	No
Wall/Stand	Wall		Wall	Wall	Wall
Waterproof	Yes	No		Yes	Yes
Weight	19.11	‎10.8	15	17.6	26.2
Working temperature	n/a	-22°F to 122°F	-22°F to 122°F	-40°F to 122°F	-22°F to 122°F
Warranty	3 years	1 year	3 years	3 years	3 years
Certificate	UL & Energy Star	Ul certified	UL Listed	UL certificate 20190607-E328478 issued 06/07/2019; Type 3R per UL 50E; ENERGY STAR qualified 06/25/19.	EV Charger is not UL certified, it is manufactured to meet the safety criteria defined by these international standards: NEC 625, SAE J1772, UL 817, UL 991, UL 2231, UL 225, and UL 2594

Comparison table – hardwired BMW EV chargers

	ChargePoint NEMA 14-50 plug/hardwired Home Charging Station...	JuiceBox 40 Hardwired Smart EV Home Charging Station (40 Am...	Wallbox Pulsar Plus Level 2 EV Charging station 11.52 kW (2...	FLO Home G5 Level 2 Hardwired Electric Vehicle (EV) Home Ch...	Siemens VersiCharge Level 2 Hardwired EV Home Charging stat...
Overview	Charge Smarter, Not Just Faster. The Flexibility to Work with Any Home. Works with Any EV. Hardwired connections are eligible up to 50 amps.	A hardwired connection that is perfect for those who want to be prepared for an EV future with more power. Professional Installation is required. The app and stable wifi make it easy to keep track of your charging.	Voice control-enabled. Designed for intelligent, professional installation to a 70A breaker and provides excellent performance.	5-Yrs Warranty. Sturdy Construction. CSA-Certified and Meet Applicable Ul Safety Standards. Refined Design.	A high-powered home device. Has high WiFi signal requirements.
Brand	chargepoint	JuiceBox	Wallbox	FLO	Siemens
Amperage	16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 50	40	48	32	12, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48
Cable length, ft	23	25	25	25	20
Outdoor	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Wall/Stand	Wall	Wall	Wall	Wall	Wall
Waterproof	Yes	Yes	NEMA Type 4	Yes
Weight	17.6	21.2	22.8	26	17
Working temperature	-40°F to 113°F	n/a	n/a	-40°F to 125°F
Warranty	3 years	3 years	3 years	5 years
Certificate	UL certificate 20190607-E328478 issued 06/07/2019; Type 3R per UL 50E; ENERGY STAR qualified 06/25/19.	UL & Energy Star	UL	CSA-certified, UL listed	cUL listed

What’s New in BMW’s 2024 Lineup?

BMW’s heralding an electrifying change in their executive sedan lineup for 2024. Meet the all-new 5 Series (G60), which for the first time ever, introduces the i5¹ – a fully electric variant, redefining the mid-size sedan. Should you wish to view this groundbreaking vehicle, anticipate its arrival in BMW showrooms before the year draws to a close.

What’s Under the Hood of BMW i5?

Diving beneath the floorboards of the i5, you’ll find an impressive 84.3-kWh battery pack. This hefty power source promises to push the eDrive40 model for a whopping 295 miles before the need to recharge. If you fancy the dual-motor M60 model, you’re looking at an estimated range of 256 miles per charge. Although it may fall short of its eDrive40 counterpart, the M60 still offers a commendable range for an electric vehicle.

How Fast Can the i5’s Battery Pack Charge?

If the prospect of charging electric vehicles (EVs) intimidates you, worry no more. BMW’s i5 houses a battery pack designed for quick and easy replenishment. DC fast-charging stations allow you to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just half an hour. To sweeten the deal, BMW even includes three years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America² charging stations with every new i5 purchase.

What Charging Equipment Comes With the BMW i5?

When it comes to charging, BMW doesn’t skimp on the essentials. All their electric and plug-in hybrid models are equipped with a standard charging cable approximately five meters in length, which conveniently fits conventional 3-pin sockets. For a more tech-savvy experience, EV chargers that connect through Wi-Fi will require a home broadband internet connection. Similarly, chargers with cellular connectivity can link to 4G mobile networks, much like your smartphone.

Can I Install My Own EV Charging Point?

Unless you are skilled in electrical work and experienced with installing EV chargers, it’s not recommended to tackle this task yourself. Instead, it’s best to leave it to a certified and experienced installer. According to the Department of Energy³, professional installation ensures that your charging station complies with local, state, and national codes and regulations, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

BMW’s new 5 Series (G60) is more than just a luxury sedan; it’s a leap forward into a greener and more sustainable future. As the world gradually transitions to electric vehicles, the BMW i5 stands as a testament to the Bavarian automaker’s commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility.

Can You Use Tesla Chargers for BMW’s Electric Vehicles?

Absolutely! BMW electric vehicle owners have the option to utilize Tesla chargers⁴. However, keep in mind that an adapter is required for compatibility. While it’s possible to charge your non-Tesla electric vehicle at a Tesla charging station, certain limitations may apply, and purchasing an adapter is a necessary step.

What Adapter Can You Use for Non-Tesla EVs?

To access low-powered Tesla chargers, non-Tesla electric vehicles need a J1772 adapter. This simple yet crucial tool ensures compatibility with both the Tesla Wall Connector and Tesla Mobile Connector. With this adapter, charging your BMW at a Tesla station becomes a breeze.

Can You Charge a BMW i3 with a Tesla Wall Connector?

Yes, but only with the appropriate adapter, such as the Tesla Tap. This handy device connects to a Tesla wall or mobile connector, allowing vehicles with J1772 connectors, like the BMW i3, to plug in. So if you’re an i3 owner eyeing a Tesla wall connector, make sure to equip yourself with a Tesla Tap.

What Other Charging Options are Available for the BMW i3?

Charging your BMW i3 isn’t confined to Tesla adapters and wall connectors. Using a Type 2 connector, you can charge at home, work, or public charging points. Additionally, a CCS connector is available for rapid charging. This flexibility provides ample options to ensure your i3 is always ready to go.

Is it Safe to Charge a Removed EV Battery Inside the House?

Safety comes first. Hence, it’s crucial to avoid charging a battery inside the house if it has been removed from the BMW EV. Faulty batteries or chargers can potentially lead to dangerous situations, including explosions or fires. Always adhere to manufacturer’s guidelines when it comes to EV battery charging and maintenance.

What are the Different Home Charging Options for BMW?

Charging your electric car at home comes with various options. These include standard 120-volt home outlets (Level 1), 208-240V outlets similar to those used by dryers (Level 2), or dedicated 480V+ public fast chargers (DC Fast Charging). Charging times will vary depending on the option chosen and the size of the battery.

What Connector Does the BMW i3 Use for Fast Charging?

For those in a hurry, the BMW i3 employs a CCS DC connector, which is one of the most widely used DC chargers globally. This high-speed charger can energize your i3 at a rate of up to 49 kW, allowing for swift and efficient recharging.

Charging your BMW electric vehicle, such as the new i5 or the i3, is a flexible process with numerous options. Whether you’re using a Tesla charger with an adapter, a Type 2 or CCS connector, or even home outlets, BMW ensures you have the tools you need for a smooth and efficient charging experience. Always remember to prioritize safety and follow manufacturer guidelines when handling and charging EV batteries.

Should You Charge Your EV Battery to 100% Capacity Every Night?

Contrary to what one might think, charging your EV battery to full capacity every night isn’t the best practice. Frequent charging cycles can lead to battery degradation, shortening its lifespan over time. Generally, most EVs on the market, including the BMW i5 and i3, offer a range of a few hundred miles on a single full charge. This range should be sufficient for several days unless extensive daily driving is part of your routine.

What is the Charging Rate of BMW i3 Models?

It’s important to note that some BMW i3 models come equipped with a single onboard charger, limiting them to a charging rate of 15 amps or 3.3 kW, instead of the higher 6.6 kW. This means that regardless of the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) you connect, 3.3 kW is the maximum charging rate these models can achieve.

How Quickly Can Level 3 DC Fast Chargers Recharge the i3 Battery?

In the world of EV charging, speed is a prized asset. Level 3 DC fast chargers can recharge the i3 battery up to 80% in a mere 20 minutes. However, to protect the battery from overcharging, charging speed slows down once the battery reaches 80% capacity. Quick and protective, these fast chargers offer the best of both worlds.

What Connector is Used for Level 3 DC Fast Charging?

When it comes to Level 3 DC fast charging, the CCS Combo connector holds the standard. In the current BMW i3, a depleted battery takes approximately 40 minutes to recharge to about 80% of its 153-mile capacity using this connector. So, if you’re in a hurry, a CCS Combo connector and a Level 3 DC fast charger can get you back on the road in no time.

What are the Specifications of the BMW i3 Battery Pack?

Let’s delve into the BMW i3 battery pack specifications. The i3 boasts a 42 kWh battery with a capacity of 120Ah and a voltage of 352V. This powerful battery is designed to offer optimal performance, ensuring a smooth and reliable driving experience.

How Long Do BMW i3 Batteries Last?

The lifespan of BMW i3 batteries typically ranges between 3 to 5 years, although this can vary depending on driving habits, weather conditions, battery type, and more. To prolong the life of your i3 battery, consider storing your vehicle indoors, away from extreme temperature or climate fluctuations. Proper battery care can significantly extend its lifespan, offering you many years of enjoyable electric driving.

Maintaining an electric vehicle, like the BMW i3 or i5, involves understanding its charging and battery care requirements. By adhering to best practices, you can ensure optimal battery performance and lifespan, making the most of your BMW EV driving experience.

Is Charging Your Electric Car Safe in Inclement Weather?

If you’re worried about charging your electric car during a rainstorm or in other challenging weather conditions, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Charging connectors are designed to be waterproof, making it safe to charge in various weather conditions. However, for convenience and safety, it’s recommended to unplug your vehicle during the charging process. With this safety measure in place, you can charge your BMW i3 or i5 anytime, rain or shine.

What’s the Optimal Charging Level to Maintain a Healthy Lithium Battery?

Keeping your electric vehicle’s lithium battery healthy requires a specific charge level. Experts recommend keeping the battery’s charge between 20% and 80%. Regularly charging the i3 or i5 to 100% can generate excess heat and stress, which can negatively impact the battery infrastructure in the car. By maintaining an optimal charge level, you can ensure your battery’s longevity and performance.

Can You Upgrade the BMW i3 Battery?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade the BMW i3 battery. While it’s not a do-it-yourself (DIY) task due to its complexity, the process is generally more manageable than most people might anticipate. For instance, if your i3 has a 60 Ah unit, upgrading to a 120 Ah unit could effectively double your electric-only range, particularly if you have the REx version of the vehicle.

How Much Does a BMW i3 Battery Replacement Cost?

The cost of a BMW i3 Battery Replacement can vary, but on average, you should anticipate spending between $290 and $316. This cost estimate breaks down into labor costs, estimated between $99 and $125, and parts priced at approximately $191. Keep in mind these are averages, and actual costs can fluctuate based on various factors, including location and service provider.

Is it Safe to Wash Your Electric Vehicle While It’s Charging?

Washing your electric vehicle while it’s charging is indeed safe. The charging connectors on your BMW i3 or i5 are designed to be waterproof, ensuring you can keep your car clean without worrying about water damage. However, it’s generally more convenient and safer to unplug the vehicle during the wash. Avoid directing high-pressure water directly at the charging port, and you can enjoy a spotless, shiny EV without any concerns.

Owning an electric vehicle like the BMW i3 or i5 comes with its unique set of considerations. From safe charging practices in inclement weather to maintaining optimal battery health and understanding battery replacement or upgrade procedures, it’s essential to stay informed. With these tips and guidelines in mind, you can ensure a seamless, enjoyable, and long-lasting electric driving experience.

What are the IP Ratings for Level 2 EV Chargers?

It’s essential to understand that standard IP ratings for Level 2 EV chargers, which operate at 7.4 kW, typically fall between IP54 and IP55. IP ratings provide a standardized measure of the degree of protection against dust, dirt, and water that an electrical device offers. Ratings of 8 are generally assigned to devices capable of prolonged submersion in water, but this level of protection isn’t necessary for home EV chargers. Therefore, when selecting a charger for your BMW i5 or i3, you can be assured that its IP rating is suitable for typical home use.

Where Should You Install Your EV Charging Station?

When it comes to installing your EV charging station, most EV industry experts and manufacturers recommend indoor installation whenever possible. This practice ensures the device’s longevity and optimal performance. But if you don’t have enough space in your garage to charge your BMW electric vehicle, you can still install the charger indoors and extend the cord to your vehicle outside. This arrangement provides flexibility while protecting the charger from elements.

What is BMW’s Electric Vehicle Strategy?

In 2021, BMW began a strategic refocus on its core customers, aiming to make 50% of all BMW sales electric vehicles by 2030. In January 2022, they announced the discontinuation of the i3’s production, shifting their focus towards larger and longer-range electric options like the i4 and iX. These new models share the design language of the brand’s other models, reaffirming BMW’s commitment to a future of electrified mobility.

What Sets the BMW i3’s Construction Apart?

The BMW i3’s construction features a carbon monocoque, an advanced structural design used in the i8 supercar. The monocoque design was a significant investment for BMW and stood out as a distinguishing feature in the EV market. In its early iterations, the i3 also featured a range extender engine to supplement the battery. However, BMW discontinued this feature after 2018 in favor of a larger battery with a capacity of 33.2 kWh, later increased to 42.2 kWh.

What is the Top Speed of the BMW i3?

The top speed of the BMW i3 is electronically limited to 93 mph for efficiency. However, thanks to its seamless acceleration, the i3 is well-equipped to keep up with fast motorway traffic. It’s worth mentioning that the range extender engine, when it was an option, added 120 kg to the i3’s weight and slightly wider rear wheels, affecting the straight-line performance slightly. However, the current i3, without the range extender, boasts an impressive balance of efficiency and speed.

What is the Real-World Range of the BMW i3?

The BMW i3 is equipped with a usable battery capacity of 37.9 kWh, allowing for a range of approximately 145 miles on a full charge. However, actual range can fluctuate based on several factors, including climate conditions, terrain, use of climate control systems, and driving style. It’s crucial to consider these factors to optimize the battery range and efficiency of your i3.

Why Choose the BMW i3 for an All-Electric Driving Experience?

As we look towards a future less dependent on fossil fuels, models like the BMW i3 offer an all-elective driving experience that reduces reliance on gasoline. This not only contributes to sustainability efforts but also eliminates concerns over fluctuating fuel costs, offering owners more predictability in their transportation expenses.

How Does the BMW i3’s Battery and Charging System Work?

The BMW i3 is outfitted with a battery that boasts a total capacity of 33.2 kWh, with 27.2 kWh of that being usable. This capacity translates into a practical range of approximately 100 miles on a full charge. Again, it’s vital to note that factors like climate, terrain, and driving style can influence this range.

How Long Can the BMW i3 Stay Idle Before the Battery Dies?

If you’re wondering about your BMW i3’s endurance when it’s not being driven, you’ll be pleased to learn that it can typically sit idle for about four weeks to two months before the battery’s charge depletes. This feature gives owners greater flexibility and peace of mind, especially during periods of infrequent use.

Can You Replace a BMW i3 Battery Yourself?

Many people ponder whether BMW battery replacement requires professional assistance or if it’s a feasible do-it-yourself (DIY) task. The good news is, you can indeed handle the battery replacement on your own. However, always ensure you follow manufacturer guidelines and safety precautions during the process.

What Was the Original Range Goal for the BMW i3?

During the development of the BMW i3, the target was to achieve a range of 100 miles, mirroring the projected range of the BMW ActiveE. However, to reduce the vehicle’s weight and optimize efficiency, the battery capacity was scaled down to 16 kWh, rather than the 30 kWh found in the ActiveE.

What is the BMW LIM Module?

The BMW LIM module, or Charging Interface Module, is a critical component in the i3’s charging system. It supports various charging standards, including CCS, CHAdeMO, and AC charging. This module facilitates communication between the vehicle and public charging infrastructure, enabling rapid charging capabilities and contributing to the overall practicality and convenience of owning a BMW i3.

About Mike Becker Linked In Twitter

Mike is a seasoned engineer with 10+ years of experience in charging systems. He bought a Tesla Model S in 2014 and has been in love with EVs ever since. He runs a small EVSE installation business in Florida and blogs about what he loves.

Read more...

1. https://www.bmw.com/global/en/new-vehicles/i5/overview.html
2. https://www.electrifyamerica.com/
3. https://www.energy.gov/
4. https://www.tesla.com/supercharger