EV Chargers

Understanding EV Chargers

Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers are crucial tools for any electric vehicle owner, providing the power to recharge EVs efficiently at home, work, or public locations. These devices convert electric current from your power source into a form that can be safely stored in an electric vehicle's battery. Chargers vary by speed, power delivery, and installation requirements, making it essential to choose the right one to meet your charging needs.

What EV Chargers do we offer at Pure Electric?

At Pure Electric, we specialise in providing advanced EV charging solutions tailored to diverse requirements. Here’s a closer look at the EV chargers we offer:

• Zappi EV Chargers: A standout for its eco-friendly charging capabilities, the Zappi charger is designed with unique features that allow it to integrate with your home's renewable energy sources, like solar panels. Zappi offers a variety of charging modes, including eco and eco+ modes, which maximise the use of solar energy, potentially reducing or even eliminating grid electricity usage during charging.

• Fronius Wattpilot EV Charger: Known for its versatility, the Fronius Wattpilot can switch between being a fixed charging station and a mobile charger with ease. It supports up to 22 kW charging, facilitating rapid recharges. When integrated with energy management systems, the Fronius Wattpilot can optimise charging based on available power sources, prioritising solar energy while ensuring your vehicle is charged when you need it.

How EV Chargers Work

EV chargers connect to the electric grid (and possibly to a home solar system) to draw power. They convert AC electricity from the grid into DC power suitable for charging an electric vehicle's battery. Chargers come with different ratings, expressed in kilowatts (kW), which determine how quickly they can charge an EV. Basic home chargers might offer around 7 kW of power, providing a good balance between charging speed and energy costs, while faster chargers can offer up to 22 kW or more for quicker charges.

Integration with Other Products

Integration plays a key role in maximising the efficiency and functionality of EV chargers, especially for systems designed to work with renewable energy sources:

• Zappi Chargers integrate with home energy management systems to enhance their functionality. They can automatically switch to the most economical or ecological mode based on real-time energy production and consumption, optimising the use of renewable resources.

• Fronius Wattpilot offers a high degree of flexibility through its compatibility with various home energy systems. It can be used independently or connected to a home’s solar PV system, providing smart charging options based on solar availability and energy pricing.

How to Choose the Right EV Charger

Selecting the right EV charger is not just about keeping your electric vehicle powered up—it's about integrating a crucial component into your daily life and energy system. Understanding the types of EV chargers and how they fit into your daily usage and home energy system is crucial for making the most out of your investment in an electric vehicle.

Types of EV Chargers

Electric vehicle (EV) charging in Australia is classified into three main categories as defined by the Electric Vehicle Council:

1. Level 1 (AC) – Basic Home Charging

2. Level 2 (AC) – Fast Home & Workplace Charging

3. Level 3 (DC) – Ultra-Fast Public Charging

Each category differs in power output, charging speed, and application, catering to various residential, commercial, and public charging needs.

AC vs. DC Charging: Key Differences

• AC (Alternating Current) charging is slower and commonly used for home and workplace charging points.

• DC (Direct Current) charging is much faster, primarily found at public charging stations for rapid top-ups.

Level 1 (AC) – Basic Home Charging

Level 1 charging is the slowest method, with AC power outputs ranging from approximately 1.4kW to 2.8kW. Using the standard three-pin domestic power outlet (GPO), this type of charging is accessible through a portable cable that is often supplied with the vehicle. While this method is suitable for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) with smaller batteries, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) require significantly more time to fully charge. Typically, this method adds around 10 to 12 kilometres of driving range per hour. The main advantage of Level 1 charging is its portability, as it allows EV owners to charge from any standard power outlet.

Level 2 (AC) – Faster Home & Workplace Charging

Level 2 charging offers a dedicated AC charging solution that significantly improves charging speeds compared to Level 1. Power output ranges from 7kW for single-phase units up to 22kW for three-phase systems. A 7kW charger typically adds between 35 and 40 kilometres of range per hour, while a 22kW charger can provide between 50 and 130 kilometres per hour, depending on the EV. This type of charging is commonly installed in residential homes, workplaces, hotels, and resorts, where vehicles remain parked for extended periods. It allows most EVs to receive a full recharge overnight or gain enough charge for daily driving in just a few hours.

Most Level 2 chargers come equipped with a Type 2 connector, which is the standard for EVs in Australia. They are available as tethered units with a fixed cable or untethered models that support different plug types through a socket. In many cases, these chargers can also be integrated with rooftop solar systems, enabling users to maximise the use of self-generated renewable energy for cost-effective and sustainable charging.

Level 3 (DC) – Ultra-Fast Public Charging

Level 3 charging is the fastest option, using DC power to deliver rapid charging at power levels ranging from 25kW to 350kW. This high-speed charging technology can add between 150 and 300 kilometres of driving range per hour, with some high-end EVs able to reach 80% charge in just 10 to 15 minutes.

DC fast chargers are primarily found at public charging stations, including the Chargefox network, Australia’s largest EV charging provider. These stations are strategically located along highways and in urban centres to support long-distance travel and fast top-ups. Unlike AC chargers, Level 3 charging stations come with tethered cables, ensuring compatibility with most modern EVs. The most common plug types include CCS2 (Combined Charging System Type 2), which is the standard for most new EV models in Australia, and CHAdeMO, which is primarily used by certain Japanese EVs such as the Nissan LEAF.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Charger

Integration with Home Energy Management Systems

For homeowners with a solar panel system or a smart home setup, choosing an EV charger that integrates with your existing system is beneficial. Smart chargers can be programmed to charge your car when solar energy production is at its peak or during off-peak electricity hours to minimise costs.

Charging Speed Needs

Consider how fast you need your vehicle to be charged. Daily commuters with long distances might prefer the speed of a Level 2 charger over the convenience of a Level 1 charger. Understanding your vehicle's charging capacity is also crucial as it determines how quickly your car can be charged regardless of the charger used.

Future Proofing

As the EV market evolves, choosing a charger that can accommodate future vehicles or increased charging needs is wise. Features like adjustable charging speeds or the capability to upgrade software are important for adapting to future innovations.

Installation Requirements and Professional Advice

Installation Site

Determine the most practical and accessible location for installing your EV charger. It should ideally be near where your vehicle is parked most frequently and where it can easily connect to your home's electrical system.

Electrical Capacity

Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load of an EV charger. In some cases, an upgrade or a new dedicated circuit may be needed, especially for Level 2 chargers.

Professional Installation

Due to the complexities of electrical systems and safety codes, professional installation by a certified electrician is recommended. This not only ensures safety and efficiency but may also be required to validate warranties and comply with local regulations.

Selecting the right EV charger is crucial for enhancing your electric vehicle experience. It involves understanding the types of chargers available, assessing your specific needs, and considering the integration with your home energy systems. At Pure Electric, we provide a range of EV charging solutions to meet diverse needs and preferences, ensuring you find the perfect match for your lifestyle and energy goals. With the right information and the right charger, you can ensure your electric vehicle is always powered efficiently and reliably.