Discover the Different Types of EV Charging Stations
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, so does the need for reliable and accessible charging infrastructure. Different types of EV charging stations offer varying charging speeds and connector types. Understanding the different types of charging options available can help you make informed decisions about charging your EVs, whether it’s a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or a fully electric car. So, whether you’re new to EV ownership or looking to expand your knowledge, keep reading to learn about the different types of charging options available for your electric vehicle.
The Difference Between AC and DC charging
When it comes to electric vehicle (EV) charging, there are two main types of charging: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) charging. Understanding the difference between these two charging methods is crucial for EV drivers, as it can affect how quickly your vehicle charges and where you can charge it.
AC Charging
AC charging is the most common way to charge electric vehicles. It is typically used for charging at home or at public charging stations. AC charging stations supply power to the EV’s onboard charger, which converts the AC power into DC power to charge the battery. AC charging is often referred to as Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V) charging, depending on the voltage of the power supply.
Level 1 AC charging uses a standard household 120V outlet and is typically slower, providing about 2-5 miles of range per hour. Level 2 AC charging uses a higher voltage 240V outlet and provides faster charging speeds, providing about 10-30 miles of range per hour. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charging cable, and Level 2 charging stations can be installed at home or found at public charging stations.
DC Charging
DC charging is a faster method of charging electric vehicles, and it is typically used for long-distance travel or when faster charging is needed. DC charging stations supply power directly to the vehicle’s battery, bypassing the onboard charger. This allows for faster charging times, providing up to 100 miles of range in as little as 20-30 minutes.
DC charging is often referred to as Level 3 (50kW), Level 4 (150kW), or ultra-rapid charging, depending on the charging speed. Level 3 DC charging stations are more commonly found at public charging stations, while Level 4 or ultra-rapid charging stations are expected to become more widespread as EV adoption grows.
Combined Charging System (CCS)
The CCS (Combined Charging System) is a type of DC fast charging connector for EVs that allows for high-speed charging at public charging stations. The CCS connector is designed to provide a single, universal solution for both AC and DC charging, making it more convenient for EV drivers to charge their vehicles.
CCS charging is a relatively new technology, and it is quickly becoming more popular as more EVs are manufactured with CCS connectors. The CCS connector supports charging at power levels up to 350 kW, which is significantly faster than most other DC fast charging connectors. This allows for quicker charging times and more convenient charging for EV drivers.
CCS charging works by supplying power directly to the vehicle’s battery through the connector. This bypasses the vehicle’s onboard charger, allowing for faster charging times. CCS charging stations are typically found at public charging stations, and many new EV models are now compatible with CCS charging.
In addition to fast charging speeds, the CCS connector also has the advantage of being compatible with AC charging, which means that it can be used to charge at Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging stations as well. This makes it more versatile and convenient for EV drivers who may not always have access to a DC fast charging station.
CCS charging is a convenient and fast way to charge electric vehicles, and it is quickly becoming more popular as EV adoption grows. With its high-speed charging capabilities and compatibility with AC charging, the CCS connector is helping to make EV charging more accessible and convenient for drivers.
Fleet Charging Stations
Fleet charging stations are designed to provide charging solutions for a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs). They are typically used by businesses that own and operate a fleet of EVs, such as delivery companies, taxi services, government agencies, and rental car companies.
Fleet charging stations are different from traditional EV charging stations in that they are designed to handle a high volume of charging sessions per day. They are also designed to be durable and able to withstand frequent use, as well as to provide a range of charging options to suit different types of EVs. The Power Unit for Kempower is a great resource for this type of charging station, with one of the main benefits being its scalability, allow it to grow as your fleet grows.
By using electric vehicles, businesses can save on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint. Fleet charging stations can also help businesses avoid downtime by ensuring that their EVs are fully charged and ready to go when they are needed.
When choosing a fleet charging station, there are several factors to consider. These include the number of EVs in the fleet, the charging speed required, the location of the charging station, and the cost of installation and maintenance.
Some fleet charging stations offer smart charging features, like chargeye which allow businesses to manage their charging sessions remotely and track usage and costs. This can help businesses optimise their charging schedules, minimise downtime, and reduce their energy costs.
Charging Cables
In addition to the types of charging, it’s also important to understand the different charging cables and networks available. Different plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and electric cars may require different cables and connectors to charge.
There are two types of charging cables for electric vehicles: tethered and untethered. Tethered cables are permanently connected to the charging unit, like petrol or diesel pumps. You simply remove the plug and attach it to your car to begin charging. Both rapid and ultra-rapid chargers usually use tethered cables.
On the other hand, some fast chargers require you to plug in an untethered cable to both the charging point and the car. Most new EVs come with one or both cables needed for charging, which are usually stored in the boot or under the bonnet.
Which Charging Station is best for you?
Choosing the right charging station can be a daunting task, with so many options available in the market. At Vital EV, we offer a range of charging stations to suit different needs and budgets.
At Vital EV, we understand that every EV driver has unique charging needs, and that’s why we offer a range of charging solutions to suit different requirements. Our charging stations are designed to be reliable, efficient, and easy to use, ensuring that you get the best charging experience every time. So, no matter the business or location you need charging stations for, we’ve got you covered.
