What Lectron EV Chargers Are
Lectron makes portable and wall-mounted electric vehicle chargers that plug into standard household outlets or dedicated circuits. Unlike some EV chargers that require professional installation, many Lectron models are designed to work with outlets you already have — a standard 120-volt outlet or a 240-volt circuit if your home has one. The company sells directly to consumers and through online retailers, not through dealerships or utility companies.
Lectron chargers are third-party equipment, meaning they are not made by your vehicle manufacturer or your electric utility. They are compatible with most electric vehicles sold in North America, though you should verify compatibility with your specific vehicle model before purchase. The chargers come with different connector types depending on the model — some use the standard J1772 connector that works with most EVs, while others are Tesla-specific.
Key Takeaways
- Lectron chargers range from portable 120-volt models that charge slowly to 240-volt wall units that charge faster, and prices vary based on power output and installation requirements.
- A 120-volt Lectron charger adds roughly 2 to 3 miles of range per hour, while a 240-volt model adds 10 to 30 miles per hour depending on your vehicle and the charger's wattage.
- Installing a 240-volt Lectron charger usually requires hiring an electrician to run a dedicated circuit, which costs money separate from the charger itself.
- Lectron chargers work with most electric vehicles through the standard J1772 connector, but Tesla owners need a Tesla-specific model or an adapter.
Lectron Charger Models and Power Output
Lectron sells several charger types at different price points. The most basic is a portable 120-volt charger that plugs into any standard household outlet — no installation needed. This model charges slowly and is best for overnight charging or as a backup. A step up is the portable 240-volt charger, which requires a 240-volt outlet but still plugs in without permanent installation; you can move it between locations if needed.
The fastest option is a wall-mounted 240-volt charger that stays in one place, usually in a garage or driveway. Wall-mounted models typically deliver more power than portable 240-volt chargers because they can draw more current from a dedicated circuit. Lectron also makes Tesla-specific models that use the Tesla connector instead of the standard J1772.
Charging speed depends on both the charger and your vehicle. A 120-volt charger typically adds 2 to 3 miles of range per hour. A 240-volt charger adds anywhere from 10 to 30 miles per hour, depending on the charger's wattage and your vehicle's onboard charging capacity. Check your vehicle's manual to see the maximum charging speed it can accept — a charger faster than that will not charge any quicker.
Installation and Electrical Requirements
A 120-volt Lectron charger requires no installation — you plug it in and use it. A 240-volt charger is more complex. If you already have a 240-volt outlet in your garage or driveway (the kind used for electric dryers or air conditioning units), you may be able to plug in a portable 240-volt model directly. If you do not have a 240-volt outlet, or if you want a wall-mounted charger, you will need to hire a licensed electrician to install a dedicated circuit.
The electrician will run wiring from your home's electrical panel to the charger location, which typically costs between $500 and $2,000 depending on distance and local labor rates. Some homes have older electrical panels that cannot safely handle a new 240-volt circuit without an upgrade, which adds cost. Before buying a wall-mounted charger, have an electrician inspect your panel to confirm it can support the installation.
Check your local building codes and homeowner's insurance before installation. Some jurisdictions require permits for EV charger installation, and some insurance policies have specific requirements for charger placement or type. A licensed electrician will know the local rules and can handle permits if needed.
Compatibility With Your Vehicle
Most Lectron chargers use the J1772 connector, the standard plug type for non-Tesla electric vehicles in North America. This includes Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Volkswagen, and most other brands. Before purchasing, confirm that your vehicle accepts J1772 connectors — your owner's manual or the vehicle's specification sheet will state this.
Tesla vehicles use a different connector. Lectron makes Tesla-specific chargers that use the Tesla connector, or you can buy a J1772-to-Tesla adapter to use a standard Lectron charger with a Tesla. The adapter adds cost and slightly reduces charging speed, so a Tesla-specific Lectron charger is usually the better choice if you own a Tesla.
Some newer vehicles, particularly certain Ford and GM models, come with the ability to use both the J1772 connector and the newer NACS connector (also called the Tesla connector). If your vehicle has dual-connector capability, confirm which Lectron model works with your setup.
Cost Comparison and Alternatives
Lectron chargers are one option among many. Portable 120-volt chargers from Lectron typically cost $300 to $600. Portable 240-volt models range from $400 to $800. Wall-mounted 240-volt chargers cost $600 to $1,200 before installation. Other brands like Grizzl-E, Tesla Wall Connector, and ChargePoint offer similar products at comparable prices.
The main cost difference is not the charger itself but the installation. If you need a new 240-volt circuit, budget $500 to $2,000 for electrical work. If you already have a 240-volt outlet available, a portable 240-volt charger is much cheaper than a wall-mounted one because no installation is needed.
Some states and utilities offer rebates or tax credits for home EV charger installation. Check your state's energy office website or your utility company's website to see what programs exist in your area. Federal tax credits for charger installation have changed over time, so verify current rules with the IRS or a tax professional.
Charging Speed and Real-World Use
Charging speed matters most if you drive long distances regularly or have a long commute. A 120-volt charger is slow but works fine if you charge overnight and drive less than 30 miles per day. A 240-volt charger is practical for most owners because it can fully charge a typical EV battery overnight or in a few hours during the day.
Keep in mind that charging speed slows as the battery fills. Most EVs charge fastest from 10 percent to 80 percent of capacity, then slow down to protect the battery. A Lectron charger will not change this behavior — it is built into your vehicle. If you regularly need to charge from empty to full in under an hour, you may need a public fast-charging station instead, which uses different technology than home chargers.
Weather affects charging too. Cold temperatures slow charging speed, and some vehicles reduce charging power in very hot weather. These are vehicle limitations, not charger limitations, but it is worth knowing if you live in an extreme climate.
Safety and Warranty
Lectron chargers come with built-in safety features including ground fault protection, which stops power if it detects a short circuit. The charger will not deliver power if it senses a problem with the connection or the vehicle. All Lectron chargers sold in North America meet UL safety standards, which means they have been tested by an independent lab.
Lectron typically offers a one-year to three-year warranty depending on the model, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage from improper installation, weather exposure without protection, or normal wear. Read the warranty terms for your specific model before purchase, as they vary.
If you hire an electrician to install a wall-mounted charger, ask about their warranty on the installation work separately from the charger warranty. A good electrician will stand behind their wiring work for several years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Lectron charger with any electric vehicle?
Most Lectron chargers work with any non-Tesla EV that accepts J1772 connectors. Tesla owners need a Tesla-specific Lectron model or an adapter. Check your vehicle's manual to confirm the connector type before purchasing. Some very new vehicles may use the NACS connector instead, so verify compatibility with your specific model year.
How long does it take to fully charge with a Lectron charger?
A 120-volt charger takes 24 to 48 hours to fully charge most EV batteries from empty. A 240-volt charger typically takes 4 to 10 hours depending on battery size and charger wattage. Your vehicle's manual will tell you the expected charging time for your specific battery capacity.
Do I need a permit to install a Lectron charger?
A 120-volt charger needs no permit — it plugs into an existing outlet. A 240-volt charger usually requires a permit and inspection, depending on your local building codes. Hire a licensed electrician who knows your area's rules; they will handle permits if needed.
What happens if my electrical panel cannot support a 240-volt charger?
An electrician can upgrade your panel to add capacity, but this is expensive — often $1,000 to $3,000. Before committing to a wall-mounted charger, have an electrician inspect your panel. If an upgrade is needed, you may choose to use a 120-volt charger instead, which requires no panel work.
Can I use a Lectron charger outdoors in rain or snow?
Lectron chargers are rated for outdoor use, but you should protect them from direct water exposure when not in use. Install a weatherproof cover or mount the charger under an overhang. The connector itself is designed to be weather-resistant, but prolonged exposure to standing water can cause problems over time.