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Theres no doubt electric cars represent the biggest shift in the automotive industry in 100 years. Across the world, an increasing number of drivers are choosing electric vehicles (EVs) over traditional cars and here in WA, owning an EV is becoming a reality for more and more drivers.
Whether you own an electric car already or youre considering an EV for your next car, its important to understand how and when to safely and easily charge your EV, whether its best to use EV charging stations or charge at home and how to determine the right EV charging level to suit individual driving habits.
When youre used to driving to your nearest petrol station to fill your tank with petrol, the idea of charging your electric vehicle at home or a public charging station might seem strange at first. The good news is that charging an EV is easier than it might sound and you can choose from a range of charging methods.
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Unlike petrol and diesel vehicles where you need to head to a service station to fill up your car with fuel, with an EV there are several ways to charge your electric car. The EV charging type thats right for you will depend on your cars driving range, the EV battery and your EV charger type, as this can affect the charging time and rate.
EV charging stations are also known as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). This is the hardware which delivers energy from an electricity source to charge an EV battery.
Depending on the EV charging type, chargers offer different charging levels. This refers to the rate of power that is delivered to a vehicle. Different EV chargers all provide the same electricity but can offer different rates or levels. The higher the level, the faster the charging time.
Here's an overview of Level 1, 2 and 3 charging types:
To help you choose which option might be right for you, here are some more details about each of these EV charging types. The information on driving range and charging time is general in nature and the exact time and distance will vary depending on your usage, EV battery and EV type.
Location: Home or work
Charging power: 1.4kW - 2.4kW
Also known as trickle charging, Level 1 charging involves simply plugging your EV into an ordinary power outlet at home to charge, like you would your mobile . This is the slowest method of charging your EV as it can generally take up to 14 hours to fully charge a battery from empty, depending on your EV battery capacity.
To help you work out an approximate charging time, divide the kWh of your battery by two. This number should give you a rough idea of many hours it would take to charge.
The kW offered while charging is generally equivalent to the kilometres of driving range you could get from every 10 minutes of charging. As an example, 2.0kW will give you around 2km of range for every 10 minutes you charge.
Most publicly available AC chargers, such as at the ones installed at some workplaces and local businesses, are universal sockets with no cable attached. Youll need to bring your own EV charging cable to use these.
AC charging is best suited for smaller battery sizes such as those in PHEVS (plug-in-hybrid electric vehicles) or when you have more time to charge, for example charging during the day or overnight.
Location: Home, work, shopping centres, car parks, hotels
Charging Power: Up to 7.2kW
Level 2 EV charging provides mid-tier charging rates which are quite a bit faster than Level 1 EV charging.
In one hour, you will typically gain about 40km of range from a level 2 EV charger.
This EV charger type is often found installed in homes, apartment complexes, workplaces, shopping centres, hotels and places an EV can be parked for a while. If you want to use a Level 2 EV charger at home, youll need to have a wall box installed by a qualified electrician. This is normally an additional investment you will need to make, however sometimes Level 2 chargers can be included as part of a bundle with your EV.
Level 2 EVSE charging equipment can cost a bit upfront if youre planning to install it at home, but the investment could be worth considering when you look at the convenience and faster charging time.
Location: Public charging stations; highways and key routes
Charging Power: 25kW - 350kw
Level 3 EV chargers provide rapid charging rates and can be up FIFTY times faster than Level 2 EV chargers.
This kind of charging speed comes at a cost and DC Level 3 is generally the most expensive to install. This is why DC rapid charging is normally only installed by larger businesses or through government deployment such as the WA EV Network.
Level 3 EV chargers are intended to be used in much the same way that fuel stations are used by petrol or diesel vehicles. For example, on a road trip or long-distance drive, you might plug into the DC fast charger and have time to get a coffee or snack while you charge up.
Typically, you might get 60 to 70km of driving range for every 10 minutes of charging for this EV charger type. This means you could have almost a full charge from empty in the time it takes to finish that coffee.
Most EVs on the market are capable of accepting a charge rate of at least 50kW. When youre planning how and when to charge your EV, its important to know that some EVs (such as plugin hybrids or PHEVs) may have a lower acceptance rate and might not suit Level 3 charging.
AC stands for alternating current. The appliances and devices you plug into your wall at home use AC electricity.
AC charging generally refers to Level 1 or 2 charging. When you connect to AC power, your EV's onboard inverter converts AC power to direct current (DC) power which means it can be stored in the EV battery.
Most Level 3 charging is DC. With DC fast charging, the electricity by-passes the AC/DC inverter and is fed straight into the EV battery, allowing for faster and more efficient charging.
The level of power that the charging point on the wall can deliver is only one part of EV charging.
An important element of EV charging is the type of charging port on the EVSE, or charger, and the car itself.
Think of an EV charger plug as being similar to the plugs you plug into power sockets. For example, across the world, each country has their own specific type. With EVs, these plugs and ports have multiple pins; some are for transferring electricity, and others are data connections used by the car and EV charging stations to manage the electricity flow in the best way. Some EVs have multiple connection type options.
There are 4 main EV plug types found on EV chargers. These are designed for either AC or DC charging.
Just as you might need a travel adaptor when youre travelling, there are many adaptors available to allow a car with one plug type to connect to a different type of EV charging station.
Adaptor connectors or charging cables usually cost a few hundred dollars and can be a useful investment to give you extra options for charging your EV.
There are limits of course and not all combinations are available. While the right adaptor might allow a car to charge from a Level 3 fast charger which might not otherwise be compatible, the EV battery will still only charge at its own maximum rate.
One of the biggest benefits that electric cars have over internal combustion engine (ICE) cars is that you have the option to charge your vehicle without leaving home, as well as out on the road. Unlike driving an ICE vehicle, you arent limited to filling up at petrol stations.
If you would like to charge at home, your EV will probably come with a standard charging cable which can plug into the car and into a regular household power point. This works in the same way as you would charge your laptop or smartphone, but charge times will be very slow.
These EV charging cables are not very long, so you need to make sure the power socket is located near your charging point. Extension cables should never be used to power electric vehicles. Generally, most people charge their EV in their garage. You can also use your standard EV charging cable away from home or on road trips, so it is a great idea to store one in your car boot just in case.
Using Level 1 trickle charging is fine if have plenty of time, for example if it suits you to charge at home while youre home during the day, or overnight.
Most EV drivers find it much easier to charge at home by having a Level 2 EV charging unit installed. This can charge your car up to three times faster than a standard power outlet.
AC fast chargers increase the power output to 7.2kW for standard 240-volt single-phase wiring, (which would require a dedicated 32A circuit run to the EV Wall Box) and 22kW if you have 415-volt three-phase power at your home. You can speak to a qualified electrician who would be able to advise you further on getting a dedicated EV charging unit installed.
Charging at home is one of the most convenient parts of owning an EV. You can fully charge your car overnight or during the day and you wont need to leave your house for top-ups. You can even set up your home EV charger to charge at off-peak electricity times if you are on a time of use tariff, such as the Synergy EV Add On electricity plan.
If you have solar power at home, you could choose to set up your charge to only charge when your solar power system is generating energy. According to recent reports, around 70% of EV owners across Australia today also have a home solar system, allowing them to make the most of their solar energy to help charge their EVs.
When youre out and about, you might use public charging stations to quickly charge your EV (depending on the EV charger type) or top up the battery if you need. In many locations, youll find fast or ultra-rapid charging to get you back on the road quickly for example, WAs EV Network which will add even more fast-charging stations across WA. You can use apps such as Plugshare or join a community of local EV drivers to find your nearest charging station.
Most electric vehicles have enough battery capacity to cover the average daily commute for most Australians for an entire week. This means, unless youre planning a long road trip, you should only need to replenish the battery once or twice a week. Unlike your mobile , it doesnt need to be recharged every day.
Most car-makers recommend that you should only recharge the battery between 20 and 80% of its capacity. It could also be better for your EV battery to deplete each charge cycle before you top up again to support your EV in maintaining its useable driving range and prevent the battery cells from degrading quickly.
This can stress the battery cells and speed up the degradation. In a worst-case scenario, over time this could create enough heat for the battery to catch fire.
In short, the ideal time to recharge your EV is only when you need to. These are general tips only and you should always follow your EV manufacturers recommendations.
If you drive your EV every day, you could potentially save money by recharging at certain times of the day. For example, if you are on a time of use electricity plan, such as Midday Saver or EV Add On, the best time to recharge your EV is between 9am and 3pm during the super off peak period or between 9pm and 9am during the off-peak period for the Midday Saver or 9pm to 11pm and 6am to 9am (off peak period) or 11pm to 6am (overnight period) for the EV Add On.
Curious about how much it costs to charge an EV? We have compared charging at home on different electricity plans, and compared them to charging at public charging stations to work out when (and where) you could charge to get the most cost-savings. Find out if you could save.
If the thought of charging your EV overnight makes you think youll need to get out of bed at all hours to either plug in or remove the charger, heres some good news. Most EVs have a function that allows you to schedule charging times. This might work either through your EVs infotainment system or through an app.
Using this tech could allow you to plug your EV in to the charger and the battery shouldnt start drawing power from the grid until the designated time. It should also stop recharging when either your EV battery is full or at a designated finish time.
If you have a smart home charger you may be able to benefit from pre-programming it to charge only at certain times of the day.
Charging your EV can become part of your normal routine its not that different to keeping your mobile charged. The simple rule is to only charge your EV battery when you need to and charge when you dont need to drive your car, which is usually at night.
Now that you know how charging stations work, where to find them and when to charge, youll need to know how to charge your EV when using a public charging station.
The exact charging process may change depending on the type of EV charging station youre using but in most cases, youll need to drive into the public charging station and:
Other EV drivers can be a great source of tips and recommendations related to your electric vehicle and its worth doing the right thing by them. If youre planning to use public charging stations, its a good idea to follow these basic rules of etiquette.
Drivers who leave their EV unattended on charge for longer than they need to are at the top of the list of frustrations for other EV drivers. This is sometimes referred to as camping. To avoid this, you can:
If something is wrong with the unit, try to report it to the charging operator as soon as possible. You can usually find the contact details to report a charger issue somewhere on or around the charging unit.
When you leave the charging station, leave the charger in the condition you found it and make sure you leave the area ready for the next driver to use. Hang up the cord when youre done to reduce the chance of it being run over and damaged. And make sure to pick up any litter or rubbish!
Planning your EV charging ahead of time could help to streamline the process and avoid stress. Different EV charger types can have their own smartphone apps, such as Chargefox, which will show you charging locations and whether theyre currently in use.
If youre planning a long trip you may want to stop at the second last available EV charger along your route to give yourself a safety buffer.
If another driver has breached EV charging etiquette, try to be patient and dont try to unplug their unattended vehicles from the charger.
Be prepared to accept less than 100% charge
At busy charging stations, its worth considering other EV drivers in the line and how much charge you really need at that point. The charge time in older EVs can slow down considerably after 80 per cent and some EV manufacturers even recommend keeping your vehicle charged between 20 and 80 per cent to prolong the battery life.
Of course, you can recharge your EV to as high a level as you want. You might need extra charging time for road trips in country areas where you want to get as much range as you can for the next leg of the journey.
Any business or venue with an EV charging station is likely to have invested many thousands of dollars into their charging facility that enables to you easily and reliably get a top up. This could cost anywhere from around $6,000 to $10,000 per charging station. Then theres the ongoing maintenance, cleaning and support required to keep the chargers operational, safe and pleasant to use.
If your charging is free, consider how you might support the business itself, for example by buying a coffee or snack. You could also let the operator know you're there because they have installed an EV charging facility.
Now that you know all about EV chargers and how to safely charge your electric vehicle, you can check out our map of the best places near you to charge your EV, or learn more about the WA EV Network, Australias longest electric vehicle network which is under construction to help improve WAs energy future.
As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity worldwide, the demand for efficient and accessible charging solutions has grown significantly. Among the various charging standards, the Type 2 charger, also known as the Mennekes connector, stands out as a common and versatile option for many EV users. In this blog, we will explore what a Type 2 EV charger is, its technical specifications, and how to use it effectively.
What Is a Type 2 EV Charger?
The Type 2 EV charger is a European standard for EV charging, featuring a seven-pin design. This connector type is prevalent in Europe and is gradually becoming a standard in other regions. Its design allows for both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging, making it a versatile option for various charging needs.
Technical Specifications of Type 2 Chargers
Type 2 chargers come with a range of technical specifications tailored to different charging needs. They are designed to support both AC and DC charging, making them highly adaptable.
AC Charging
: The Type 2 connector typically supports AC charging with power levels ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW. AC charging can be performed using either a single-phase or three-phase power supply. Single-phase charging is common in residential settings and can deliver up to 7.4 kW, while three-phase charging is often used in commercial or public charging stations and can provide up to 22 kW. The speed of AC charging depends on both the power output of the charging station and the vehicles onboard charger capacity.: The Type 2 connector typically supports AC charging with power levels ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW. AC charging can be performed using either a single-phase or three-phase power supply. Single-phase charging is common in residential settings and can deliver up to 7.4 kW, while three-phase charging is often used in commercial or public charging stations and can provide up to 22 kW. The speed of AC charging depends on both the power output of the charging station and the vehicles onboard charger capacity.
Link to EraCharge
DC Charging: For rapid charging, the Type 2 connector is also compatible with DC charging solutions, although the DC fast charging typically uses a different connector (CCS - Combined Charging System) in conjunction with Type 2. DC fast charging can deliver power up to 350 kW, significantly reducing charging times compared to AC charging. This is particularly beneficial for long-distance travel and public charging stations.
Voltage and Current: Type 2 chargers operate at various voltage levels, generally ranging from 230V for single-phase systems to 400V for three-phase systems. The current can vary based on the power level, with typical values ranging from 16A to 32A for AC charging.
Compatibility and Standardization
The Type 2 connector is widely adopted due to its compatibility with numerous EV models and brands. It adheres to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard IEC , which ensures that it meets safety and performance requirements. This standardization is crucial for promoting interoperability among different EVs and charging networks, making it easier for users to charge their vehicles at various locations.
Standardized connectors like Type 2 contribute to a more seamless and user-friendly charging experience. They reduce the complexity and confusion associated with different charging plug types and help to accelerate the development of charging infrastructure. The widespread use of Type 2 connectors in Europe and other regions supports the growth of EV adoption and helps to build a reliable and accessible charging network.
How to Use a
Using a Type 2 EV charger is generally straightforward, whether at a public charging station or at home. Heres a step-by-step guide to help users navigate the process:
Locate a Charging Station
: For public charging, find a Type 2-compatible charging station using a charging network app or website. Many public charging stations are equipped with Type 2 connectors, although some may offer other types of connectors as well.: For public charging, find a Type 2-compatible charging station using a charging network app or website. Many public charging stations are equipped with Type 2 connectors, although some may offer other types of connectors as well.
Connect Your Vehicle: Once you arrive at the charging station, plug the Type 2 connector into your vehicles charging port. Ensure that the connection is secure and that the vehicles charging port is properly aligned with the connector.
Authenticate and Start Charging: Depending on the charging station, you may need to authenticate your session using an RFID card, mobile app, or other methods. Follow the instructions provided by the charging station to initiate the charging process.
Monitor Charging Progress: Many charging stations and vehicle apps allow you to monitor the charging progress in real-time. You can track the current charge level, estimated completion time, and other relevant information.
Disconnect and Finish: Once the charging session is complete, unplug the Type 2 connector from your vehicle and the charging station. Ensure that both the connector and the vehicles charging port are clean and free of debris.
Safety Precautions: Always follow safety guidelines when using a Type 2 charger. Avoid charging in wet conditions, and ensure that the charging cable is not damaged. If you encounter any issues, consult the user manual or contact the charging station provider for assistance.
Installing a Type 2 charging station at home offers several benefits, including the convenience of charging your EV overnight and potentially saving on charging costs. Heres a detailed guide on how to install a Type 2 charging station at home:
Assess Your Electrical System: Before installation, have a qualified electrician assess your homes electrical system to ensure it can handle the additional load of a Type 2 charging station. This may involve checking your electrical panel, wiring, and overall capacity.
Choose the Right Charging Station: Select a Type 2 charging station that meets your needs. Consider factors such as charging speed, power rating (e.g., 7.4 kW or 22 kW), and any smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity or scheduling.
Obtain Necessary Permits: In some regions, you may need permits for installing a charging station. Check local regulations and obtain any required permits before proceeding with the installation.
Install the Charging Station: Hire a licensed electrician to install the charging station. The installation typically involves mounting the unit on a wall or pedestal, connecting it to your electrical system, and configuring any necessary settings.
Test the Installation: Once installed, test the charging station to ensure it operates correctly. Verify that it properly communicates with your EV and delivers the expected power output.
Consider Future Upgrades: If you plan to upgrade your EV or increase your homes electrical capacity in the future, discuss these possibilities with your electrician to ensure your charging station can accommodate any changes.
Safety and Maintenance: Regularly inspect the charging station for any signs of wear or damage. Keep the area around the station clean and free of obstructions. If you encounter any issues, contact the manufacturer or a professional for support.
Finding Type 2 charging stations near you is essential for convenient EV ownership. Heres how to locate Type 2 charging stations in your area:
Use Charging Network Apps: Several apps and websites provide real-time information about charging stations. Popular apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Zap-Map allow you to search for Type 2 chargers based on your location. These platforms often include user reviews, ratings, and details about the availability of each station.
Check EV Manufacturer Resources: Many electric vehicle manufacturers offer tools to help you find compatible charging stations. Visit your EV manufacturers website or app for location-based charging station maps and information.
Consult Local Charging Networks: Some regions have local charging networks that may not be covered by global apps. Research regional charging providers and check their websites for a list of Type 2 charging stations.
Use Navigation Systems: Many modern EVs come with built-in navigation systems that include charging station locators. Use your vehicles navigation system to find nearby Type 2 charging stations and plan your routes accordingly.
Explore Public Charging Stations: Type 2 chargers are often installed at public locations such as shopping centers, parking garages, and government buildings. Look for charging stations in these areas to ensure you have access to reliable charging options.
Contact Local EV Owners Groups: Joining local EV owners groups or forums can provide valuable insights into the best charging locations and tips from fellow EV users.
By using these resources, you can easily find Type 2 charging stations and ensure that you have access to convenient and reliable charging options for your electric vehicle.
Benefits of Using Type 2 Chargers
The Type 2 charger offers several advantages, making it a popular choice among EV owners:
Widespread Availability: Type 2 chargers are widely available in public charging networks and residential installations, providing easy access to charging infrastructure.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to some other charging solutions, Type 2 chargers are relatively cost-effective. This makes them a practical choice for both individual users and commercial applications.
Environmental Impact: By supporting a standardized connector, Type 2 chargers contribute to the broader adoption of electric vehicles, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable transportation.
Enhanced User Experience: Standardization and compatibility simplify the charging process, making it more convenient for users to find and use charging stations.
Future Developments in Type 2 Charging Technology
The future of Type 2 charging technology is promising, with several advancements on the horizon:
Faster Charging: Ongoing developments aim to increase charging speeds, reducing the time required to charge EVs. Innovations in both AC and DC charging technologies are expected to enhance the efficiency of Type 2 chargers.
Smart Grid Integration: Type 2 chargers may integrate with smart grid systems, enabling more efficient energy management and supporting the use of renewable energy sources.
Enhanced Features: Future Type 2 chargers may incorporate advanced features such as wireless charging, improved safety mechanisms, and enhanced user interfaces.
Expanded Infrastructure: The continued expansion of charging infrastructure will increase the availability of Type 2 chargers, making it easier for EV owners to charge their vehicles in various locations.
Conclusion
The Type 2 EV charger is a vital component of the electric vehicle charging landscape, offering versatility, compatibility, and convenience. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, understanding and utilizing Type 2 chargers will be essential for ensuring a smooth and efficient charging experience. With ongoing advancements in technology and infrastructure, the future of EV charging looks bright, promising a more sustainable and accessible transportation ecosystem.
Are you interested in learning more about Ac Type 2 Ev Charger? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
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