For many electric vehicle owners, home charging isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. With over 80% of EV charging done at home, choosing a reliable and efficient charger becomes as important as the vehicle itself.
That’s where the Grizzl-E Smart Level 2 40A EV Charger steps up. Built in Canada and designed to handle brutal weather, this heavy-duty charger combines industrial strength with modern smart features.
In this review, we’ll explore whether the Grizzl-E Smart offers the performance, durability, and usability to justify its place on your garage wall. Spoiler: It very likely does.
Power, Speed, and Flexibility
Right out of the box, the Grizzl-E Smart impresses with strong charging specs tailored to diverse home setups.
- Charging Output: At 240V, it delivers up to 40 amps (10kW), translating to roughly 28–30 miles of range per hour.
- Adjustable Amperage: Can be set to 16A, 24A, or 32A depending on your circuit limitations—great for older homes or subpanels.
- Universal Compatibility: The SAE J1772 connector works with all North American EVs (Tesla owners will need an adapter).
- Cold-Weather Cable: The included 24-foot cable stays pliable in frigid conditions, unlike many stiff rubber alternatives.
This combination of power and configurability makes it a good fit whether you’re driving a Nissan Leaf or a high-capacity EV like the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Ready for Rain, Snow, and Everything Else
The Grizzl-E Smart’s rugged build is more than marketing fluff—it’s a core part of its identity.
- Metal Housing: A NEMA 4/4X rated aluminum case resists dust, water, and impact.
- Weatherproofing: IP67 certified, so it can be installed outdoors without worry.
- Automatic Recovery: After a power outage, charging resumes automatically—ideal for overnight use.
- Fire-Resistant Internals: Built to exceed safety standards and withstand years of use.
This isn’t a sleek, wall-hugging charger designed to blend into modern architecture. It’s a tank—and for many EV owners, especially in extreme climates, that’s exactly what’s needed.
Smart Features Without Ecosystem Lock-In
Where the Grizzl-E Smart separates itself from some competitors is in its open connectivity and practical smart features.
- Wi-Fi Enabled: Integrates with ChargeLab and any OCPP-compliant app.
- No Proprietary App Needed: You’re free to use your preferred third-party solution.
- Scheduled Charging: Optimize energy usage by charging during off-peak hours.
- Usage Data: Get reports on electricity consumption and cost estimates over time.
You won’t find app-based current adjustment here, but the essentials—scheduling and usage tracking—are well covered. It’s a straightforward smart experience without the vendor lock-in.
Installation and Everyday Use
Ease of use is another highlight, particularly for homeowners looking to avoid complex installations.
- NEMA 14-50 Plug: No hardwiring required—just plug it into an appropriate outlet.
- Adjustable Current Settings: Dial in your amperage during setup based on your home’s capacity.
- Mounting Kit Included: Comes with a wall bracket and plastic cable holder.
The cord holder could be more elegant, but it gets the job done. If aesthetics matter less to you than functionality, there’s little to complain about.
And yes—it’s available on Amazon, which adds convenience and often access to rebates or bundle deals.
Long-Term Value and Cost Benefits
Though not the cheapest Level 2 charger on the market, the Grizzl-E Smart offers long-term savings and value through:
- Durability: Reduces the need for repairs or replacement.
- Smart Energy Use: Scheduled charging can cut electricity bills.
- Rebate Eligibility: UL listed and Energy Star certified, qualifying it for regional rebates or incentives.
For homeowners who plan to drive EVs long-term, this unit pays off by simply lasting—and performing—better than budget options.
What It’s Like to Use Every Day
Real-world testing shows the Grizzl-E Smart doesn’t just look tough—it performs.
- Consistent Speed: Holds full 40A output without overheating.
- Temperature Range: Functions from -22°F to 122°F without issue.
- Safe Load Handling: Avoids overloads with auto-adjustments when household demand increases.
The interface through ChargeLab or similar apps isn’t as polished as Tesla’s or Wallbox’s native apps, but it’s stable and functional. The only notable omission is remote current control—changes have to be made at the charger itself.
Built for Owners Who Value Reliability Over Flash
The Grizzl-E Smart Level 2 40A EV Charger is ideal for:
- EV owners in regions with extreme weather
- Homeowners who want a reliable, low-maintenance solution
- Users who value open platform compatibility
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking durability without luxury pricing
It’s not the sleekest charger. It doesn’t have flashy lights or a polished app. But it works—quietly, reliably, and with the features that matter most.
