Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular in England, and with this increase comes a growing need for EV charging infrastructure. However, with so many different types of EV chargers available, it can be confusing to understand which one to use. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of EV chargers available in England and how they work.
Slow Chargers (up to 3.6 kW) Slow chargers, also known as Level 1 chargers, are the most basic type of charger available. They typically provide a charging rate of up to 3.6 kW and can take anywhere from six to 12 hours to fully charge an EV. Slow chargers are best suited for overnight charging or for use in locations where a vehicle can be parked for an extended period.
Fast Chargers (7-22 kW) Fast chargers, also known as Level 2 chargers, are more powerful than slow chargers and provide charging rates of up to 22 kW. They can charge an EV in three to four hours, making them ideal for use in public places like shopping centers, workplaces, and public car parks.
Rapid Chargers (up to 50 kW) Rapid chargers, also known as DC chargers, are the fastest type of charger available in England. They can provide charging rates of up to 50 kW, allowing an EV to be charged to 80% in just 30 minutes. Rapid chargers are typically found at motorway service stations or other locations where drivers need to quickly charge their EVs.
Ultra-Rapid Chargers (100-350 kW) Ultra-rapid chargers are the latest addition to the EV charging market, and they provide charging rates of up to 350 kW. They can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 20 minutes, making them ideal for long-distance travel. However, they are currently limited in availability in England.
Wireless Charging Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, is a new type of charging that allows EVs to charge without any cables. The charger uses an electromagnetic field to transfer energy from the charger to the EV’s battery. This technology is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we charge EVs in the future.
In conclusion, there are several different types of EV chargers available in England, ranging from slow chargers to ultra-rapid chargers. Each type of charger offers different charging rates and is suitable for different situations, whether it be overnight charging or quick charging on a long-distance journey. As the popularity of EVs continues to grow, the availability and accessibility of EV charging infrastructure will become increasingly important, and understanding the different types of chargers available will be essential for EV drivers.