Electric vehicle charging station
Electric mobility, once a dazzle of modern times still far away, is finally a reality, the new and increasingly consolidated paradigm of urban and, also, extra-urban mobility. The electric cars increasingly present on our roads are the practical demonstration of this. Although the dream has become reality, there are still many questions that torment drivers, intent on dealing with new mobility habits: where and how can I recharge, in the fastest and most efficient way, my new or future electric car?
An electric vehicle charging station has precisely this function: to provide energy, possibly in the shortest possible time, at a well-identified and nearby point, respecting the driver’s needs, in terms of power and timing.
However, not all electric car charging stations are the same: there are different types, divided by technology, speed, power supplied and installation method. While it is true that home charging remains the most convenient choice for those who have a garage or a private parking space, it is equally true that fast charging, in direct current and up to 350 kW, represents the real great opportunity of electric mobility.
Here’s how charging stations work, what the average charging times are and how to choose the right solution for every need.
What is an electric vehicle charging station?
An electric vehicle charging station is an infrastructure designed to provide electricity to recharge the batteries of vehicles equipped with an electric powertrain, such as an electric car. The stations, which we often call charging columns, can be installed in public (roads, parking lots, shopping centers), private (homes, garages) or business contexts. To facilitate their identification, the National Single Platform (PUN) was created, an official map of charging stations for electric cars in Italy, managed by GSE and RSE, where you can easily find charging stations, filtering by location, type of connector and other parameters. Electric vehicle charging stations can offer alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) charging, with power ranging from 3.7 kW up to over 300 kW, so as to recharge an electric car in a few hours or even a few minutes, depending on the technology and battery capacity.
What are the charging methods for an electric car?
When we talk about charging an electric car, it is important to know that there is not just one way. The differences concern both the type of charging column and the speed with which energy is transferred to the vehicle’s battery.
There are mainly three types of charging stations for electric cars:
- Slow charging stations;
- Accelerated charging stations;
- Ultra-fast charging stations.
Slow charging
Slow charging, or single-phase AC, is the simplest and most widespread method in the home. This charging method takes place via a standard power outlet or a low-power wallbox (3.7-7.4 kW). This is a useful solution for those who can leave the vehicle charging for several hours, for example overnight, using their own private garage. Times can vary between 6 and 12 hours for a full charge.
Accelerated charging
Three-phase AC is a different story, which includes electric car charging stations with power ranging from 11 to 22 kW. Typically, you can find these stations in public car parks, supermarkets and shopping centres. The advantage of accelerated charging is the reduction in charging times compared to slow charging, allowing you to charge an electric car in 2-4 hours, depending on the model.
Fast and ultra-fast charging
Fast charging stations work in direct current and reach powers of up to 350 kW or more, so as to recharge electric cars in less than 30 minutes. They are currently mainly found on highways, service stations and high-traffic urban hubs.
Of course, the actual charging speed will always be related to the maximum charging capacity supported by the electric car, therefore, for example, a vehicle with an on-board charger limited to 11 kW will not be able to fully exploit a 22 kW accelerated charging column.
What cables and connectors are used to charge an electric car?
Another equally interesting point regarding electric vehicle charging is the charging cable. In fact, the cable represents the “bridge” between the electric car and the charging column. Again, there are different standards, each designed for specific charging methods and different powers. Some cables are supplied with the vehicle, others are integrated into the electric car column, especially in cases of fast charging.
For home charging or at public AC charging stations, type 1 or 2 connectors are used. The main ones are:
- Type 2 (Mennekes): it is the most widespread in Europe. It allows single-phase or three-phase charging, up to 22 kW. It is compatible with most electric charging stations in Italy and connects to both domestic wallboxes and public charging stations;
- Type 1 (Yazaki): more common on older Asian or American models, less widespread in Europe except for some older or imported models.
- Schuko plug or standard socket: used for emergency charging, it allows you to connect to common household sockets. Charging via a Schuko socket is generally slow and not designed for everyday use due to power limitations and possible implications on the safety of the domestic electrical system if it is not adequately sized.
As for fast or ultra-fast charging stations, we enter direct current charging, where the cables are always integrated into the station for safety reasons. The cables used are:
- CCS Combo 2 (Combined Charging System): it is the European standard for fast charging. It integrates two connectors in one and can support charging up to 350 kW;
- CHAdeMO: used in the past mainly on Asian models, it is slowly disappearing from the European market in favor of CCS.
The fact that DC charging cables are always integrated into the station is a key safety feature, given the high power involved. This prevents inexperienced users from using unsuitable cables or from accidentally disconnecting during high-power charging, which could be dangerous.
Advantages of fast charging
Fast charging is the most popular way to charge an electric vehicle. Just think that, thanks to direct current (DC) charging stations, you can charge up to 80% of the battery in less than 30 minutes, a time that was unthinkable just a few years ago.
The advantages of this choice are many:
- Time saving: High-power electric car charging reduces downtime and allows, in fact, to have a good percentage of charge even just for lunch;
- Long-distance management: Fast charging makes electric vehicles more suitable for long-distance travel. The ability to “fill up” with energy quickly along the way eliminates range anxiety and allows you to plan longer itineraries with short and targeted charging stops;
- Modern infrastructure: New electric car charging stations are often equipped with user recognition systems, remote monitoring, digital payments and integration with mobility apps;
- Higher turnover at charging stations: High charging speeds can lead to a greater flow of users as cars stop for shorter periods.
- Compatibility with new cars: The latest generation of electric cars are designed to support fast charging, using high power (up to 150 kW or more)..
Choose Southenergy for your electric charging system
Since 2008, Southenergy has been accompanying individuals and businesses on the path towards energy efficiency and the exploitation of renewable energy, with concrete, reliable and completely customized solutions. In constant alignment with modern times, the Southenergy team also designs and installs high-performance electric charging columns, integrated with photovoltaic systems and intelligent energy management systems.
Discover our solutions for charging electric cars: visit the website southenergy.it or fill out the contact form to receive customized advice.
FAQ Electric Vehicle Charging Station
What is an Electric Vehicle Charging Station?
A charging station, or charging column, is an infrastructure that allows you to charge the batteries of electric vehicles (EVs). It can be public or private, installed in urban areas, parking lots, homes or businesses, and support different charging speeds depending on the available power.
What types of charging are there?
There are three main levels of charging:
- Slow (AC): typical of domestic sockets, up to 3.7 kW.
- Rapid (AC/DC): from 7 to 22 kW, used in public and private sectors.
- Ultra-rapid (DC): over 50 kW, often on the motorway, for a fast charge in a few minutes.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Charging time depends on three factors: the capacity of the car’s battery, the power of the station and the initial charge level. For example, a full charge can vary from 30 minutes (with ultra-fast charging) to several hours (with slow home charging).
How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?
The cost depends on the type of station (public or private), the supplier’s tariff and the contract signed. Home charging, if well designed, can certainly be more convenient. Public charging varies widely based on the speed of the column, the operator and the payment method. On average, the cost can currently vary between €0.40 and €0.99/kWh. Some stations offer subscriptions or flat rates.
Can I install a charging station at my home?
Absolutely yes, in fact, for many owners of electric vehicles, this is the most convenient and convenient solution for daily charging. No special permits or authorizations are required, however it is essential that the installation is carried out by qualified operators.