Electrical Vehicle Basics

Electrical Vehicle Basics is a free introductory course that provides a high-level overview of electric vehicles and the charging systems that support them. Learners are introduced to EVSE, AC and DC charging, charging levels, major charger components, user interfaces, visual inspections, thermography, interlocking systems, functional testing, and power-quality monitoring.

The course is designed to build general awareness rather than detailed technical proficiency. Its content provides a foundation for understanding how EV charging stations operate and why routine inspection and testing support safe, reliable performance. The course concludes by reinforcing that EVSE connects the electrical grid to the vehicle battery and that multiple components must work together throughout the charging process.

Frequently Asked Questions

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
• Explain the basic role of electric vehicles and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, or EVSE, in modern transportation.
• Differentiate between AC charging and DC fast charging at a high level.
• Identify Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging applications.
• Recognize the major power, monitoring, and control components found in EV charging equipment.
• Describe how the Human–Machine Interface allows users to monitor and control a charging session.
• Explain why routine inspection and testing are important for charger safety, reliability, and efficiency.
• Identify common visual inspection items, including cables, connectors, enclosures, moisture, corrosion, overheating, and loose connections.

This course is appropriate for:
• Individuals interested in learning how electric vehicles and charging stations work.
• Entry-level electrical technicians and maintenance personnel.
• Electricians who are new to EV charging equipment.
• Facility maintenance and operations personnel.
• Safety professionals who need a basic understanding of EVSE.
• Property managers or business owners considering EV charging stations.
• Automotive, transportation, or fleet personnel.
• Students exploring careers in electrical, automotive, renewable-energy, or transportation-related fields.
• Anyone seeking a general introduction to electric vehicle charging technology.

The course is introductory and is not intended to qualify a learner to install, repair, energize, or perform testing on EV charging equipment independently.

20 minutes

N/A

Prerequisites

No prior electric vehicle or EV charging experience is required.

A basic familiarity with electrical terminology may be helpful but is not necessary.

Course Instructions
• Complete all slides in the order presented.
• Review the diagrams, examples, and explanations provided throughout the course.
• Allow approximately 20–30 minutes to complete the course, depending on reading and review time.
• Use a computer, tablet, or mobile device with a reliable internet connection and audio capability.
• Contact TTI learner support if technical assistance is needed.

Important Safety Notice

This course provides a high-level awareness of electric vehicles, charging systems, inspection concepts, and testing activities. It does not provide hands-on qualification or authorization to install, service, troubleshoot, open, test, or work on energized EV charging equipment.
Inspection and testing activities should only be performed by qualified personnel who have received appropriate training, understand the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, and follow applicable electrical-safety procedures.