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With the strong pull towards sustainability and electrical or plug-in vehicles, there is a greater need than ever for EV charging stations both at home and across the workplace. However, there are different types of EV chargers available based on your vehicle. But what are the different types of EV chargers, and which one is right for you?
In our latest article, we explore the differences between Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 EV chargers so you know the difference when charging your electric car.
Why are there different types of EV chargers?
Like octane levels on petrol which measure the quality of fuel; the different EV charger types indicate the output and speed of the charger. Electrical Vehicle charging points will have different power outputs meaning the higher the output the faster the EV will charge. At East Yorkshire Solar we offer multiple types of EV chargers from multiple manufacturers that fit to your exact needs.
EV Charger Type 1 – Features, Pros and Cons.
This is the lowest charging option and the most affordable; it’s a simple nozzle cord that can be plugged from any of your house’s electrical outlets. It’s a standard 120V charge and doesn’t require any special setup. However, a typical charging time can last from 11 to 20 hours, with around 5 miles being charged on average per hour due to the average output being between 3kW to 7kW. These types of charges are less commonplace across the UK and Europe but are a simple, cost-effective solution for charging your electric vehicle.
EV Charger Type 2 – Features, Pros and Cons.
This charger is stronger than the Type 1, with a 240V current, meaning you cannot use it with a normal socket from your home. Type 2 Chargers are often installed by experts with a special EV charging port installed externally to your home. These are usually equipped with special software that allows you to have more control over charging levels and costs. It is the most typical charger used due to its faster charging capabilities compared to Type 1 chargers; they can charge your vehicle from as little as 4 hours to 8 hours with a flat battery. It has a better average mile-per-hour charge, ranging from 12-80 miles, with speeds up to 22kW. These are the most commonplace domestic chargers but come in a range of different specifications and models from different brands.
EV Charger Type 3 – Features, Pros and Cons.
A Type 3 charger is the fastest charger on the market today and is significantly faster than both Type 1 and Type 2, capable of delivering 50kW up to 350kW of power. Type 3 chargers are often called DC chargers or ‘Superchargers’ due to their ability to fully charge an EV in under an hour. Its average mile per hour charged ranges from 170-300 miles, being a super-fast option for homes and businesses looking to invest in EV chargers.
Type 2 and Type 3 Chargers will require specialist installations and East Yorkshire Solar is the company for you; there are many different reasons why you should choose us.
What are the main differences between the EV Chargers?
As the types increase, so do the electrical output, range and costs. Type 1 chargers may be useful for some smaller electric vehicles or single home families who do less miles on average. Type 1 enable you to get up and running immediately with no installation times or costs but does limit your charging capabilities.
Type 2 chargers are great for family homes, retail spaces, and parking lots. They can be easily used by individual homeowners when they are installed correctly by a professional. These are the most common place charges and are suitable for most users.
Finally, Type 3 chargers are great for commercial, heavy-duty EVs or passenger EVs which travel large distances and need a future-proof, fast charging option.
How should you pick EV Chargers for businesses or home?
In some cases, EV chargers are interchangeable. Most electric vehicles can use either Type 1 or Type 2 chargers but may need a Type 1 or Type 2 (or vice versa) adaptor to use different charging types. When it comes to Type 2 vs. Type 3 EV chargers, passenger EV drivers may need to exercise some caution. For one, many EVs may not be compatible with Type 3 chargers, but more importantly, vehicles with smaller batteries, such as plug-in hybrids or compact models, may not be able to use DC fast chargers.
Why EYS is the company you should choose.
Although we offer residential and commercial solar solutions, we also offer domestic or commercial EV charger installations; feel free to contact us with any questions, for a free quote or to understand which charger is likely to be most suitable for you.
Further support
We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our EV charger experts today for further guidance and advice.
Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk
Telephone: 01482 230 422