Technical Information
Understanding the technology behind EV charging.
Types of Electric Vehicle Chargers
3kW: Home Electric Socket
Your EV will usually come with a plug that lets you charge from a standard home electric socket. This is very slow compared to other methods, so it’s only really useful for occasional or emergency use.
7kW: Home EV Charger
Installing a dedicated EV charger at home makes it easy to keep your battery topped up. Costs vary and they can usually be installed in just a few hours.
22kW: Fast Public Charger
These are commonly found in public places like car parks, supermarkets, and motorway service stations, offering a convenient top-up while you're out.
50kW: Rapid Public Charger
Public charging stations often offer rapid charging, which is great for long distances. These chargers quickly fill your EV to 80%, then slow down to protect the battery's health.
up to 350kW: Ultra-Rapid Charger
The fastest chargers available, although very few EVs can currently accept this speed. This technology is becoming the new standard for future electric vehicles.
Types of EV Charger Connectors
The outlet of the charging station must match your car's inlet. The cable that connects them must have the right plug on both ends. There are four main types.
Type 1 Plug (AC)
A single-phase plug standard for EVs from America and Asia. It allows charging up to 7.4 kW, depending on the car's charging power and grid capability.
Type 2 Plug (AC)
The standard for European vehicles. These triple-phase plugs can handle higher power. At home, the rate is typically up to 22 kW, while public AC stations can reach 43 kW.
CHAdeMO (DC)
This quick charging system was developed in Japan and allows for very high charging capacities and bidirectional charging. It can charge up to 100 kW and is primarily used by Asian car manufacturers.
CCS - Combined Charging System (DC)
The CCS plug is an enhanced version of the Type 2 plug with two additional power contacts for quick charging. It supports both AC and DC charging and is the standard in Europe and North America, allowing speeds up to 350 kW.