How to Use an EV Charger

There are two main types of EV Charging – AC and DC. These represent the different power types, and therefore charging speeds, available to charge an EV. Note that power is measured in kilowatts (kW).

Commercial Ultra Fast Chargers are the fastest way to charge an EV, and predominantly cover DC charging. This can be split into two categories – super-fast and ultra–fast. Ultra-fast chargers can charge at 100 kW to 150 kW and the latest designs up to 350 kW these are DC only. Conventional super-fast charging infrastructure charge at 50 kW DC, with up to 43 kW AC super-fast charging often also available.

Home/smaller commercial chargers include those which provide power from 7.3 kW to 22 kW, which typically fully charge an EV in 3-12 hours depending on battery size. The most common public charge point found are 22 kW AC chargers.

How to Charge from Home

Charging at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to recharge an EV. Many companies offer a fully installed charge point for a fixed price.

Most home chargers are range between 7.3 kW and 22 kW. The higher powered wall-mounted units normally cost more than the slower 7.3 kW option but halve the time required to fully charge an EV, depending on model.

Home-based charging requires off-street parking to avoid trailing cables across public footpaths and public areas. While less common, on-street residential charging units are becoming available, particularly in urban areas.

Charging at Home

Once your charger has been installed by a qualified electrician. Charging your car is relatively simple and the process should be shown to you by the installer.

Unlatch the door to the EV Charger connector on your car, this should be explained in the handbook of the car.

Take the cable from the charger and inset into the connector on your car.

Start the charging process with your RFID Chip by placing it in the correct location on the charger.

The cable is now locked into your car while charging, once the car is charge to your satisfaction place the RFID chip in the correct location to stop the charging.

Unplug the charger cable and store correctly in it holder and close the charging door on the car. Your car is now ready to drive.