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Typically, slow charging occurs at home or at work using a three-pin (3 kW AC) power source and the car’s own adaptor. As the name suggests, it’s the slowest option. That said, it’s also very convenient because charging can take place overnight.
However, it’s not recommended that owners leave their cars in a three-pin charging state for an extended period of time because this will lead to accelerated battery deterioration. Please check with the relevant car manufacturer for further details.
Slightly quicker home-charging options are available in the form of a dedicated charging unit with, for instance, a 3.6kW wallbox.
Fast-charge solutions generally deliver charging speeds of between 7 kW and 22 kW, and are available for the home in the form of a dedicated wallbox. However, it should be noted that the majority of domestic properties use a single-phase power system, which allows an optimal charging rate of 7 kW. If your home or commercial property offers a three-phase power supply, you will be able to charge at a rate higher than 7 kW.
The fastest charging solution for the home is one that offers speeds of up to 22 kW. Fast charging is also available at public access points, such as car parks, supermarkets and leisure centres.
Please feel free to download the Zap Map app for iOS and Android at https://www.zap-map.com/app/. This will provide you with real-time information on local public connectors and indeed, public charging stations all over the UK and Ireland.
Rapid-charging connectors can be found in public spaces (supermarkets, petrol stations, motorway service stations, etc.). They offer the following power ratings: 43 kW AC, 50 kW DC and 100-plus kW DC.
Rapid-charging connectors deliver optimal charging speeds for the majority of EVs and PHEVs, which means they’re exceptionally useful whenever time is of the essence.
Tesla runs two distinct charging networks: Destination and Supercharger. The former can be found at hotels and the latter on major thoroughfares.
Destination connectors typically charge at a rate of 22 kW and so fall within the fast-charging category. One of the benefits of a destination charger is that it is provided as part of the hotel experience; i.e. no additional cost is incurred.
Superchargers live up to their title, offering a power rating of 120 kW or 150 kW.
