Types of Chargers
Chargers can be classified by the plug itself, as well as the location
of the power conversion. The two types of power conversion are AC
and DC charging. AC stands for "Alternating Current" and this is the
power that comes from the grid itself. The power eventually needs
to be converted from AC to DC ("Direct Current") and for AC
chargers this is done within the car in the on-board converter. The
DC power then moves to the battery, providing the "fuel" for the EV.
AC chargers have lower required power range (between 16A and
63A),
meaning that it's suitable for charging times lasting 20
minutes or longer. AC chargers are the more popular charger, as
they have lower production and installation costs, as well as lower
charging costs.
For DC chargers, the converter can be found inside the charger,
therefore, the car will receive a DC charge without needing to
convert inside the vehicle. DC chargers
require more power, which means that
the chargers installation and
production costs are higher.
However, charging is much
faster, which is preferable for
drivers on the go.
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In terms of the types of plugs, for electric vehicles the type of plugs
required can depend on the manufacturer or the region.
Users can ensure the efficiency in their charging routines by
checking the types of chargers available in their area. This may
affect the type of vehicle they choose to purchase.
KOREA USA EUROPE JAPAN CHINA
TESLA
AC DC AC DC AC DC AC DC AC DC
Type 1
Type 2
CHAdeMO Type
1 CHAdeMO Type 2 CHAdeMO
Type 1 CHAdeMO Type 2 GB/T
SAE Combo SAE Combo Europe Combo
Type 2 Supercharger
AC / DC DC
Although the number of chargers is increasingly annually, there are
still frustrations from drivers and the industry alike regarding the
lack of standardization. Though there are yet to be a universal
standard across all countries and manufacturers, countries are
doing their part to try to standardize charging methods.
For example, South Korea seems to be going in the direction of
standardizing the SAE Combo charge plug.
