The charging speed is now one of the most dreaded keys by buyers when until recently, it was the autonomy of electric automobiles.
The quicker the battery charges, the better because time is valuable and priceless. We discuss the several charging methods available if you consider an electric vehicle.
When purchasing a vehicle, more and more people are choosing an electric vehicle. But first, it is helpful to understand the different charging methods and current kinds employed.
The brands use acronyms to describe the attributes and billing procedures, almost supposing that the information is already known.
But the truth is that many people have trouble telling them apart. Although it is not common knowledge, it is helpful to understand the differences between alternating and direct current and single- and three-phase electricity.
Many people have a general understanding, but it changes when they get into the details. We will review its features in the following sections, assuming that readers are unaware that either single-phase or three-phase current alternates constantly.
Monophasic current
It may be recognized by the letters “AC” and is used in residential sockets in our homes, where Schuko-type plugs are used. The 230 V voltage, 10 or 16 A amperage, and maximum output power of 2.3 or 3.6 kW are the characteristics of an alternating current. The electrons change direction at 50 Hz or 50 times per second.
Current in three phases
Three single-phase currents combine to produce a powerful form of wind. It is perfect for large installations requiring a lot of power and is identified by five-pole plugs with a 400 V voltage.
The amperage is substantially larger, tripling or reaching 16 Amperes. 11 or 22 kW of power are produced, depending. They have features that make them perfect for quick charging batteries in electric cars.
Current direct
The vast majority of equipment and the batteries of electric models of sustainable mobility operate on this current, known in English as “CC” or “DC.” In contrast to the primary current, electrons always travel in a single direction in this one, from the positive to the negative pole.
Although the latter requires a converter built into the battery’s on-board charger because the current absorbed from the grid is alternating current and is converted into direct current to be stored in the storm, thanks to converters for different voltage levels, manufacturers still permit cars to be charged using both systems.
Direct current or alternating current charging
Because of this, most manufacturers offer two charging ports—one for each current—and permit charging with both present types. An adapter known as a type 2 plug, commonly referred to as a Mennekes plug and specified in Europe, is used for charging with alternating current.
The power ratings for three-phase current may be restricted to 22 kW and, in some installations, to 43 kW. The power in single-phase is capped at roughly 7.4 kW.
The fitted onboard charger is in charge of converting the three-phase electricity to direct current. Although this approach is slower than others, direct current charging can speed up processes.
The Combined Charging System, or CCS, is utilized for this, delivering the current straight to the battery. At fast charging points, charging capabilities of up to 150 kW can be accomplished, reaching 80% of the capacity in just one hour. The only 20 percent that needs a little extra time is that.
