Compare Electric Vehicle Chargers 2023-2024
Electric vehicle (EV) owners in the UK have several options when it comes to choosing the type of charger they want to install at home or use in public charging stations. Let’s take a look at the different types of EV chargers available in the UK, their features, and how they compare to each other.
Slow Vehicle Chargers:
- Slow chargers, also known as Level 1 chargers, are the most basic type of EV charger. They provide power output of up to 3 kW, and it takes around 6-8 hours to fully charge an EV with a typical range of around 100 miles. Slow chargers are usually installed at homes or workplaces where the car can be left to charge overnight or during the day while the owner is at work.
Fast Chargers for Electric Cars:
- Fast chargers, also known as Level 2 chargers, offer higher power output than slow chargers, ranging from 7 kW to 22 kW. They can charge an EV with a range of 100 miles in as little as 3-4 hours. Fast chargers are typically installed in public charging stations, car parks, and other locations where EV owners can quickly recharge their vehicles.
Rapid EV Chargers:
- Rapid chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers, are the fastest type of EV charger available in the UK. They can provide a power output of up to 350 kW, and can charge an EV with a range of 100 miles in just 20-30 minutes. Rapid chargers are installed in motorway service areas, petrol stations, and other strategic locations to provide EV owners with quick and convenient charging options during long journeys.
Wireless Car Chargers:
- Wireless chargers, also known as inductive chargers, are a relatively new type of EV charger that uses magnetic fields to transfer power wirelessly to the EV’s battery. Wireless chargers are still in the early stages of development and are not yet widely available in the UK. However, they offer a promising future for EV charging technology by eliminating the need for cables and plugs.
When comparing the different types of EV chargers available in the UK, it’s important to consider the charging speed, convenience, and cost-effectiveness of each option. While rapid chargers offer the fastest charging speed, they are also the most expensive to install and operate. Slow chargers are the most affordable option but may not provide enough power for some EV owners. Fast chargers strike a good balance between charging speed and cost-effectiveness and are the most common type of charger found in public charging stations.
Ultimately, the type of EV charger you choose will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. If you frequently travel long distances and need to quickly recharge your EV, a rapid charger may be the best option. If you mainly drive short distances and can leave your car to charge overnight, a slow charger may be more suitable. Whatever your needs, there are plenty of options available to ensure that you can enjoy the benefits of owning an EV while also being able to charge it easily and conveniently.
