Autel MaxiCharger Home MC40AP14I Level 2 EV Charger: features and specs

The Autel MaxiCharger Home (model MC40AP14I) is a Level 2 electric vehicle charger for use at home. It runs on a 240-volt supply and delivers up to 40 amps, so it can charge an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid much faster than a regular household outlet. This version plugs into a NEMA 14-50 outlet, which means it can be fitted without being hard-wired.

What Level 2 charging means

Level 1 charging uses an ordinary 120-volt outlet and adds range slowly. Level 2 uses 240 volts, the same kind of supply a clothes dryer or range uses. Autel says the MaxiCharger can charge up to seven times faster than a Level 1 charger. In practice, the real speed depends on your vehicle's onboard charger, which sets its own limit on how much power it will accept.

The charger's output can be set anywhere from 6 amps up to 40 amps. That flexibility lets you match the charging speed to the circuit you have. Autel notes that this can help in homes where a larger electrical upgrade isn't practical, though a licensed electrician should confirm what your panel and wiring can support.

Plug options and installation

Autel lists both NEMA 6-50 and 14-50 plug options for the MaxiCharger Home. This model, with the 14-50 plug, connects to a matching 14-50 outlet. Autel says plug-in units can be installed by the owner or by a licensed electrician. Because this is electrical work on a high-current circuit, follow local electrical codes and the installation manual, and have a qualified electrician check or install the outlet and circuit.

The app and connectivity

The Autel Charge mobile app lets you track, manage and schedule charging. Scheduling is useful if your electricity provider offers lower rates at certain times of day, since you can start a session when the off-peak period begins.

The charger connects over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Ethernet. Autel says this allows automatic over-the-air firmware updates and communication with your phone. It also lists OCPP 1.6 support, a common protocol used for charger management systems. An optional RFID card function can start and stop charging, which Autel says can prevent unauthorized use.

Cable, weather protection and holster

The cable is 25 feet long, which gives some freedom in where you park relative to the outlet. The in-body holster gives the connector a place to rest when you aren't charging. Autel gives the unit a NEMA 4 protection class and says it is certified by CSA testing labs for indoor and outdoor use. NEMA 4 is a class for enclosures that protect against rain, splashing water and hose-directed water, but you should still follow the manual on where and how to mount it.

The unit weighs 19.8 lb, which is worth remembering when you choose a wall or post mounting spot.

Warranty and support

Autel lists a three-year warranty, along with around-the-clock customer support and automatic updates.

What to check before you buy

• Outlet type: confirm you have, or can have installed, a NEMA 14-50 outlet. Check the listing for the 6-50 version if that is what you have.
• Circuit capacity: have an electrician confirm your panel and wiring can support the amperage you plan to use. A charger set to 40 amps typically needs a dedicated circuit rated for continuous use.
• Cable reach: measure from the outlet to where your vehicle's charge port sits when parked.
• Vehicle compatibility: check that your vehicle uses the connector type supplied with the charger.
• Wi-Fi coverage: make sure your home network reaches the spot where the charger will be mounted, or plan to use Ethernet.
• Mounting location: check the manual for clearances, mounting height and weather exposure.

The short version

• A Level 2, 240-volt home EV charger with adjustable output from 6 to 40 amps.
• NEMA 14-50 plug, 25-foot cable and an in-body holster.
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Ethernet, with an app for scheduling, OTA updates and OCPP 1.6.
• NEMA 4 protection and CSA certification for indoor or outdoor use, per Autel.
• Three-year warranty; follow local codes and the manual, and use a licensed electrician where needed.

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