Developing robust EV charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly important. This is because the soaring gasoline prices are prompting more drivers to turn to electric transportation. Due to EV’s different charging options, knowing the distinctions between charger types, like how quickly they replenish batteries, is key to choosing the best EV charging station for your needs.
Whether you mainly do long-distance travel and need a rapid top-off or only charge overnight at home, selecting the proper technology means electric vehicle owners can power up without problems. With the right match between driver habits and charger attributes, charging becomes as seamless as possible. Taking the time to learn charging details helps the transition to electric driving!
What are the Different Types of EV Chargers?
Various best EV charging station types exist for electric vehicles, each carrying its advantages. The primary EV charging stations have three types: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.
1. Level 1 Charger
Level 1 charger is the slowest option, utilizing a standard 120V household outlet to supply power. It is suitable for occasionally “topping up” an electric vehicle at home over long durations, such as overnight. It does not require the installation of a charger. Adding 5-10 miles of range per hour charged, Level 1 is adequate for occasional use.
2. Level 2 Charger
A Level 2 charger delivers accelerated charging through an EV charger with 240V working voltage, contributing 10-20 miles of range per hour charged generally. This capability allows for a full recharge of an electric vehicle within 4-8 hours, making it particularly suitable for residential usage. Due to the higher power output, Level 2 electric vehicle chargers require professional installation but are a convenient overnight option.
3. Level 3 Charger
Level 3 chargers harness a higher-powered direct current to swiftly replenish an EV’s batteries. These are mainly situated in public spaces like highway rest stops. They boast an impressive charge rate to fully charge a vehicle within tens of minutes. (The specific charging time is determined by the battery capacity) For example, using an EVB Charger’s Floor-Mounted 3 Guns DC EV Charger delivers an impressive addition of 74 miles of range in 10 minutes. They are a top choice for seamless long-distance travel.
What are the Factors that Affect Charging Speed?
What causes the charging speed to be affected? Here is a detailed analysis of it:
1. Output Power of Charging Station
The output power of the charging station is the most critical factor affecting the charging speed. Higher-powered charges like 50kW DC stations can replenish batteries faster than lower-powered level 2 AC units. In addition, the power of the charging station can also be combined with battery capacity to help calculate the specific charging time, preparing drivers in advance for travel.
2. Vehicle Battery Capacity
The battery capacity of an EV plays a significant role. EVs featuring larger battery packs require more time to recharge fully. The maximum input capacity of the onboard charging system limits how fast the battery can receive energy as well. So, it is also necessary to consider the battery capacity when choosing a charger, as larger capacity chargers require higher power.
3. Charging Capacity of the Vehicle
Vehicle charging capacity refers to the maximum power that a vehicle can accept, which also matters when considering the charging capacity. When using a 100kW EV charger at the same time, for example, vehicles limited to accepting only a maximum of 50kW are much slower than ones that can accept a higher charging power.
4. State of Battery
The state of charge and temperature of the battery, when plugged in, also impacts charging speeds. Batteries nearing empty charge faster than those close to full, and colder batteries charge more slowly than warm ones. Moreover, the battery’s performance will gradually decline when it ages to a certain extent, so its charging speed may decrease.
5. Charging Protocol/Connector Compatibility
Efficient power transfer without bottlenecks relies on the compatibility of protocols and connectors between the EV and charger. There are several connector types of the best EV charging stations, such as SAE J1772, CCS1, CCS2, and CHAdeMO. The EV charging type standards limit the charging speed accordingly. The SAE J1772 charging type can be connected to both level 1 and level 2 chargers. The CCS1, CCS2, and CHAdeMO can all be used for DC fast charging.([1])
EVB Charger Offers a Wide Range of Dependable EV Charging Stations
EVB Charger, a subsidiary of BENY, is experienced in the EV charging industry with over a decade of experience. With a pursuit for innovation, we provide the best EV charging stations suitable for both commercial and residential applications. Our products comply with global certifications and are customizable with multiple connector options. We also ensure customer satisfaction through smart connectivity features, remote monitoring, and excellent after-sales support.
All our AC and DC chargers emphasize durability, high performance, and user-friendliness. The following are our EV charging solutions for various uses:
1. Floor-Mounted 3 Guns DC EV Charger
Ideal for highway rest areas and commercial fleets, this best EV charging station can simultaneously charge up to 3 EVs at maximum speeds. Key features of the Floor-Mounted 3 Guns DC EV Charger include:
- Rated for a high total output of 82-262 kW to charge up to 3 vehicles simultaneously
- Features 3 integrated charging ports compatible with both CCS and CHAdeMO connectors with optional AC for universal vehicle compatibility
- Sturdy floor-standing design constructed for heavy usage in public applications like highway rest areas
- User-friendly 9.1-inch touchscreen display provides clear session monitoring and control
- Meets industry certifications like CE and RoHS for high safety and performance standards
Floor-mounted AC EV Charger with Cable
Floor-Mounted AC EV Charger with Cable is our versatile multi-vehicle station for locations like office parks. The top characteristics that make it a popular choice include:
- Rated at a 22 kW per individually controlled charging connector
- Allows charging two vehicles concurrently in a compact shell, providing a T2S socket option
- Boasts Dynamic Load Balancing function and can be compatible with solar
- Weather-resistant casing with an IP55 rating protects internal components for indoor or outdoor installation
- Wide operating temperature from -30℃ to 55℃
- Integrated 5.0-inch touchscreen interface offers an easy-to-navigate charging experience
- Remote monitoring capabilities via Wi-Fi for effortless fleet management
AC EV Charger with Socket
This best EV charging station is our lightweight option that conveniently blends into residential settings. The following are some of key features of the AC EV Charger with Socket:
- Rated output of 7.4-22 kW delivers flexible charging for most household EVs
- OCPP1.6-J communication protocol
- Compact box form blends into any residential exterior easily
- Integrated cable stretches up to 6 meters for driver convenience
- IP55 or IP65 environmental seals protect against water and dust ingress
- CE, UKCA, TUV, and CB-certified product
Conclusion
Overall, selecting the best EV charging station depends on factors like charging needs, vehicle specifications, and installation environment. At EVB Charger, we offer a broad lineup of dependable and future-proof charging solutions to fulfill diverse requirements. With innovative solutions and a commitment to quality service, we promote the development of sustainable transportation. Contact us to learn more details about the above-mentioned products.
References
[1] Combined Charging System. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Combined_Charging_System (Accessed: 23 January 2024)
