You've hit on a key point of potential confusion in applying the optional calculation for dwelling unit loads. Here's the breakdown

Understanding the Interaction of 220.53, 220.57, and Optional Calculations (Article 220 Part IV)

1. 220.53's Exclusion

220.53 specifically excludes EV chargers from being considered as appliances for the purpose of that section's demand factors. This means you don't lump EV chargers in with the small appliance and laundry circuits to apply the initial 100% to 3000 VA and then 35%.2.

220.57's Requirement

220.57 mandates that the EV charger load be at least 7200 VA (or nameplate if larger). This establishes the minimum load you must consider.3.

Optional Calculations (Part IV of Article 220)

This is where the question arises. The NEC doesn't explicitly say, "apply a demand factor to the EV charger load in optional calculations." However, the intent and structure of the optional calculation method point to the EV charger load being included with the "remaining load" that is subject to the 40% demand factor after the initial 8 kVA.

Rationale for Including EV Chargers with the 40% Demand Factor in Optional Calculations Holistic Approach

The optional calculation is designed to provide a simplified and generally more favorable approach for determining the service or feeder size of a dwelling unit. It accounts for the fact that not all loads will be at their maximum simultaneously.

"Other Loads" Implication

While not explicit, the language in 220.82(B) (and similar sections in the optional methods) that refers to "other loads" implies all loads not specifically addressed elsewhere in the calculation. Since the EV charger is handled separately from appliances in 220.53, and is not a heating/cooling load, it falls into this "other loads" category.

Load Diversity

An EV charger is not considered a continuous load. The optional calculation methods acknowledge that various loads within a dwelling unit are not all in use concurrently.

The Calculation

Here's how I recommend applying the optional calculation, assuming an EV charger load of 7200 VA (or larger nameplate):1. Calculate Basic Loads

Determine the load for heating, air conditioning, cooking appliances, etc., according to the specific rules within the optional method you're using (e.g., 220.82, 220.84).
2.

EV Charger Load

Use 7200 VA (or the EV charger's nameplate, whichever is higher). Do NOT include this in the small appliance/laundry branch circuit calculation.3.

Remaining Loads

Add up ALL loads except the basic loads in Step 1 (e.g., general lighting, receptacles, other appliances,

AND the EV charger load).4. Apply Demand Factor

Take the first 8 kVA (8000 VA) of the "remaining load" at 100%. Take the rest of the "remaining load" at 40%.5.

Total Calculated Load

Add the results of Step 1 and Step 4 together to get the total calculated load.

Example

Let's say: Basic Loads (heating, cooking, etc.): 10,000 VA Remaining Loads (including a 7200 VA EV charger): 15,000 VACalculation:1. Basic Loads: 10,000 VA2. Remaining Loads: 15,000 VA3. Demand Factor: First 8,000 VA @ 100% = 8,000 VA Remaining 7,000 VA @ 40% = 2,800 VA4. Total Calculated Load: 10,000 VA (basic) + 8,000 VA + 2,800 VA = 20,800 VAImportant Considerations



Local AHJ

Always consult with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Their interpretation is what ultimately matters. If they have a specific requirement regarding EV chargers and optional calculations, follow their guidance. It's possible some AHJs might take a stricter view and require 100% of the EV charger load without the demand factor.

Nameplate vs. 7200 VA

Remember that you must use the nameplate rating if it is higher than 7200 VA.

Future Proofing

Even with the demand factor, consider oversizing the service slightly for future expansion. EV adoption is likely to increase, and other loads may also grow.

In summary: It is most likely that the EV charger load will be calculated at 100% then folded into the other loads and be calculated at 40% for everything above 8000 VA when doing an optional calculation. Flag for review