How do EV chargers work?

Introduction

Recharging points for electric vehicles is one of the worries that drivers who are considering purchasing an electric car have. But the truth is that little by little, its implementation is increasing both by public and private initiatives. But how do charging points work? This article details how to proceed when it is time to charge a battery-powered vehicle.

Charging the car at home, in the office, in a car park while shopping, or at a gas station while having a coffee is already a reality, although not in all these places, the process is similar, since there are different modalities :

1.     How Does Home Electric Car Charger Work?

The charging of electric vehicles will always depend on two significant factors: the battery’s capacity and the power associated with the charger. Once you know the type of charging, then the operation is very simple. The cable is removed from the vehicle and connected to the pointed plug. And that’s it. In this way, the recharging points pass the energy from the network to the vehicle’s batteries, which are supplied depending on the charger we selected.

2.     How long does it take to charge an electric car?

 Conventional charging time

This type of recharging is the most common in the domestic sphere since the vehicle must be connected between 4 and 8 hours to obtain a full charge. This would imply that the electrical power is around 3.7 kW.

Semi-fast charging time

This recharging solution is optimal for recharging carried out in work centers or shopping centers, supermarkets, etc. The vehicle is plugged in for approximately 1 to 3 hours to get a full charge. The electrical power that the point can deliver for this type of load ranges from 7.4 kW to 22 kW.      

Fast charging time

This DC electric car charger is the one that, from the customer’s point of view. In this case, the vehicle must remain connected between 20 and 30 minutes to obtain a charge of 80%, taking into account an average battery that allows up to 30kWh.

ultra-fast charging time

The latest in recharging, and the closest thing to what we know as a gas station to use, are the ultra-fast points, with an output power of 150kW and that is capable of charging the battery in just five minutes.

3.     What are the different types of EV plugs?

Schuko or traditional plug

It is the one you use every day to plug in any appliance or household appliance. Usually, it does not exceed 10A or 12A.

Type 1 connector

The type 1 connector is one of the most frequent and most used. Currently, this plug is in models of brands from around the world, such as Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, Citröen C-Zero and Mitsubishi.

CHAdeMO connector

It is the standard of Japanese manufacturers. It is designed for fast recharging in direct current, therefore, it has ten terminals, grounding, and communication.

 Connector type 2 Mennekes

The Mennekes connector is the one that is approved in the European Union. The connector is to be compatible with loads from 16A to 63A. This connector is one of the most used and found in many models such as the Porsche, Renault, BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Volvo.

Type 3 Scame Connector

Commonly, it is not in use. A connector t has a type 3A and 3 variant with currents up to 16A to 32A.

4.     How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

domestic charging

At home charging, we find that the recharge becomes free, only you have to pay your regular electric bill. This type of charging can also be obtain at private car parking of malls, restaurants and other visiting places where car parking time is several hours.  Some times this private recharing parking are free and some time they are not.

Semi-fast and fast charging

Fast charging is further divided into 2 types called medium fast and quick fast charging. the medium fast charging demand power of 7.4kW by the vehicle.   While the fast charging should have power of almost 50kW. The fast charginThis will allow you to charge your car in just half hour. These types of charging are not free. Depending on the provider, prices vary, starting from $.50/kw to $1.5/kw.

Conclusion

The battery charging is the key for any electric vehicle to have a efficient and longer life. It is imperative to understand how electric charging works and the basics to ensure proper runny of EVs for several years. And if you depend on public chargers, remember to charge your electric car whenever you can.