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How To Choose The Right EV Charging Station

Electric mobility is not a futuristic concept anymore. Nowadays, electric vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming the new norm. Drivers worldwide are choosing to drive electric, with the global EV fleet surpassing 20 million this year -> Read more from Virta.

Compared to filling up your tank at familiar gasoline or diesel pumps, charging an EV is vastly different and may seem complex and daunting. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), selecting the right EV charger for your home is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the essential considerations to make an informed decision, ensuring your EV is always ready to go.

tesla-charging-ac-charger-type-2

Understanding EV Charger Levels

Level 1 Chargers

Voltage: 230V
Charging speed: Adds about 8-10 km of range per hour
Best for: Overnight charging and plug-in hybrids
Installation: Uses a standard household outlet one-phase socket
Cost: 300-600 euros, including minimal installation costs

A compact mobile charging adapter should always be with every electric car. Sometimes this mobile EVSE adapter comes with a new EV already from the dealer. If not, you should purchase it even if not planning to use it for regular charging.

Level 2 Chargers, also known as Mode 3

Voltage: 230V or 400V (three-phase)
Charging speed: Adds about 30-110 km of range per hour, depending on the power rating (typically between 7.4 kW and 22 kW) and EV onboard charger capability
Best for: Daily use, overnight, and faster charging
Installation: Requires a dedicated circuit, often necessitating professional installation
Cost: 500-2,000 euros, including installation. Costs vary depending on the electrical work required

This versatile charger is perfect for use in homes, apartment buildings, or workplaces, offering the ability to charge your vehicle and share charging facilities with others.

Level 3, Mode 4 DC Fast Chargers

Voltage: 400V or higher
Charging speed: Can charge to 80% in 30 minutes or less
Best for: Commercial use and long-distance travel
Installation: More expensive and also more complex than AC charger, usually for public infrastructure of fleet charging
Cost: 8000 euros or more, including installation

Card payment terminal capability for quick payment options. Must be connected to a management background system for smooth everyday work and payment possibilities. The charger delivers rapid and efficient charging for your electric vehicle, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time. Charging power starts from 30kW and goes up to 960kW.

Assessing Your Vehicle’s Specifications

Before purchasing an EV charger, check your vehicle’s charging capacity and connector type. Most European EVs use the Type 2 connector for AC charging, and newer models support CCS2 (Combined Charging System) for fast charging. Verify your EV’s maximum charging rate from the user manual or manufacturer’s website to ensure you choose a compatible charger. It is also possible to check the charging capabilities (both AC & DC) on the EV database website.

Evaluating Your Charging Habits and Actual Needs

Consider your daily driving distance and how often you need to charge:

Short Commutes: If you drive less than 50 km a day, a Level 1 charger may suffice.
Longer Commutes or Frequent Use: A Level 2 charger is more suitable, especially if you need faster charging to accommodate longer trips.
Multiple EVs: If you plan to charge more than one EV, look for chargers with power-sharing capabilities, which can distribute electricity efficiently between multiple vehicles.

Decide where to install the charger – garage or outdoors. For outdoor installations, choose chargers with a higher Ingress Protection (IP) rating to ensure they are dustproof and water-resistant. Ensure the charger’s cable length is adequate for your setup without needing extensions. Morek AC EV chargers come with 6.5m cables, and both AC and DC chargers have the option to change the cable length according to your actual needs.