Tips for Selecting the Right EV Charging Station Model
EV (Electric Vehicles) adoption is indeed on the rise. The advanced technology and environmental friendliness are what add up to the EV’s desirability. To ensure the optimum operation of the EVs, the EV owners need an EV charging station.
There are different types of EV charging stations exist in the market. Each caters to the additional charging requirements. This raises the concern among the people to select the right style to cater to their charging needs effectively.
This article’s main objective is to throw light on the key tips that you need to consider while selecting an EV charging station model. Sounds intriguing? Let’s get started!
EV Charging Station Model – Short Intro
The EV charging station model refers to the infrastructure or a device. It provides electricity to the EV for charging purposes. Using these charging stations, you can charge EV batteries, hybrid vehicles, and electrically powered vehicles.
Tips To Consider For Right EV Charging Station Selection
There are several things that need your attention when it comes to selecting the right EV charging station. Some of the notable ones are:
1. Assess Compatibility
One of the key things that you need to consider while selecting an EV charging station is compatibility. This is true when it comes to the output power and the charging standards.
Each type of EV support different output and standard. Before finalizing the selection, assess which one is compatible.
Standards of Charging
Some of the prominent charging standards are CCS, CHAdeMO, and Tesla chargers. Cross-check which one works for your vehicle and is suitable.
Connectors
The connector type varies from vehicle to vehicle. Some vehicles support the Mennekes (Type 2), and some cars keep the SAE J1772 (Type 1). At the same time, some vehicles feature compatibility with the CHAdeMO, CCS, and Tesla Chargers.
Before selecting the specific EV charging station, check which one your vehicle supports. This will help you experience the seamless charging.
Output Power
The power output greatly matters, and it ensures effective and efficient charging. You can assess the output power both in amperes and kilowatts.
Amperes: EV charger support the amperage lying in the range of 16 up to 50. If you choose a higher amperage, then it means you can quickly charge up your vehicle.
Choosing low amperage means the charging time will elongate. Check the compatibility of the vehicle for the specific amperage and choose the charger accordingly.
Kilowatt: The output power in kilowatt also influences the overall charging speed and time. For instance, to understand better, consider this. A charger having an output power of 7kW can charge up to a distance of 20 to 30 miles.
In contrast, a charger with an output power of 50kW can charge over 150 miles just within half an hour. The higher output power in kilowatts means quick charging.
2. Determine Charging Requirements
It is crucial to determine your charging requirements before opting out for a particular charger. Some of the key things you need to pay attention to include the following:
Speed of Charging
Find out what type of charger you need, either a DC charger or an AC charger. Please note that the AC charger supports slower charging. While on the other hand, the DC charger supports faster charging.
Assess the charging speed depending on the driving patterns, for instance, if you drive frequently and long distances. Then you need a high-speed charger. In another case, you need a slower charger.
Click to learn: what is the difference between ac and dc charging
Charger Location
The location of the charger matters for convenient access. Determine where you want to deploy or install the EV charger.
Do you need it at the work location or your home? This will help you access the charger whenever you need it and charge it on the go.
Quantity of EVs
This point is also crucial. In case you have multiple electric vehicles or if you want to expand your EVs later in the future. Make sure the EV charger can accommodate the needs of the EVs.
Select The Right Charging Level
The EV chargers feature different levels. Each level caters to the different charging speeds and has other characteristics. Consider the insights on the EV charger levels below:
Level 1: You can install these chargers in your homes. The main reason behind this is that these chargers support a home power outlet of 120 Volts.
The only limitation of these chargers is that they support slower charging. These chargers take a full night to charge up the batteries of your vehicle fully.
Level 2: These chargers are a little faster than the L1 chargers. You can install these chargers at home, public or commercial locations. The power requirement of these chargers is around 240 volts. Just within 5 to 7 hours of charging, you can fully charge up your EV with L2 chargers.
Level 3: These chargers are also referred to as superfast chargers. Just within 30 minutes of charging, you can fully charge up your vehicle with L3 chargers. These chargers require 480 volts of electricity as an input.
You can get these chargers on highways, motorways, and even on long trips. They effectively meet the quicker charging requirement when you need them the most.
3. Consideration of Charging Networks
different charging networks exist. You need to determine which one to choose for your EV. Get highlights on the charging networks down below:
Public Network
Suppose you are an individual and own an EV. Then, in this case, you need to select the EV charger that resembles the public EV chargers. This way, you can charge up your vehicle whenever you want during travel.
This will also help you avoid facing compatibility issues with the EV chargers. You can also enjoy wider access to the public charging networks.
Private Network
The term private means you fully own the EV system. This is best if you have to manage a fleet of EVs. Purchasing this type of EV charging system will help you monitor the usage and control access. This is especially helpful for various businesses.
4. Check Out for Charging Features
The features associated with the chargers are different and varied. These features can contribute to the convenience and efficiency of the charging setup. Some of the features you need to look for are as follows:
Remote Management
This feature of the EV charger means you don’t need to be at the location of the EV charger every time. You can control the functionalities of your EV charger remotely.
The things you can monitor include charging operations, usage of the EV chargers, and real-time stats.
Intelligent Scheduling
This is an incredible feature of the EV charger. You can schedule the operation of the EV charger during lower electricity rates or in quiet demand times.
This way, you can save up extra. In some vicinities, the government charges extra in a specific time frame or duration. This feature is truly helpful in such a situation.
Mobile App Integration
There are EV chargers that facilitate the integration of mobile apps. Selecting these chargers will help you manage and monitor the usage of the EV charger. This adds convenience to controlling the use of the EV charger on the go.
5. Check for Compatibility and Scalability
While selecting the specific EV charger, it is crucial to consider whether the EV charger supports scalability or compatibility.
This will help you indirectly save a lot in terms of cost in the long run. The key scalability and compatibility considerations refer to.
Module
Pick up an EV charging station that you can easily expand or upgrade. This feature will help you meet future requirements regarding upgradation. You don’t need to replace the entire system if you pay attention to this consideration.
Compatibility
The compatibility here means the charger you are going to select supports coping with the emerging standards or technologies. Consider the V2G (vehicle to grid) for a better understanding in this regard.
Software Updation
The selection of the perfect fit charging model also depends on the software updation. Some models exist that frequently update just with an internet connection.
This feature is crucial for enhanced security, efficient performance, and better compatibility with future technologies.
If you have anything else you don’t understand, you can contact our PIWIN at any time. We have dedicated staff to answer your questions.You can also click here to contact us directly.
6. Other Features That Need Your Attention
User Friendliness
The things that add up to user-friendliness include digital displays and smart payment methods. EV charger station that supports various payment methods are highly desirable and offer the customer super convenience.
Durability Level
Check the quality of the EV charger station. Assess the materials and see if they offer weather resistance. Determine the level of reliability and the life you are going to get with the EV charging station.
Select the EV charging station that supports IP rating. The main reason behind this is whether it is for commercial or business purposes.
The EV charging station needs to cope with the harsh sunlight. And weather conditions. Therefore, this is essential and crucial for the EV charger.
ROI and Cost
If you are purchasing the EV charger for business purposes, then assess the initial cost and investment. Some EV chargers require high costs upfront, while others require lower prices.
Besides this, consider the ROI (Return on Investment) pattern for your business. This is essential because some EV charger results in good ROI, and some do not.
Click to learn: Cost of ev charging stations: factors, pricing, and investment analysis
