All you need to know about different types of EV chargers

Imagine a world where EVs can be charged swiftly, efficiently, and with minimal impact on the grid. This is where a diverse range of charging solutions comes into play, each designed to cater to the specific needs of EV owners. In this blog, we embark on an enlightening journey through the world of EV chargers, exploring their varying power levels and their role in shaping the future of e-mobility.

From the modest standard 3kWh charger, with its practical convenience for daily driving, to the high-powered 150 kWh chargers, capable of propelling long-distance travel and quick charging pit stops, we will unravel the mysteries and capabilities of each type. Understanding these charging solutions is essential for every EV owner, enthusiast, and even for those who are contemplating making the switch to electric.

Schuko chargers - also known as standard chargers or Level 1 chargers

Schuko (Which comes from the German word Schutzkontakt, meaning protective contact), chargers are basic household electric vehicle chargers, designed to plug into standard sockets. They offer a simple and accessible charging solution for EV owners, particularly in residential areas. Best suited for home charging and low daily mileage scenarios, Schuko chargers are not ideal for rapid charging or long-distance travel. Their convenience lies in their ease of use and affordability, making them a valuable backup option for emergency charging situations. However, due to their lower power output, charging times may be relatively slow, making them more suitable for occasional use rather than frequent charging needs.

11 and 22 kWh Chargers - also known as Level 2 chargers

11 kWh & 22 kWh chargers provide faster charging rates compared to Schuko chargers. These chargers are frequently found in various locations, including public charging stations, workplaces, and residential installations.

Of the two, the 11 kWh charger is more commonly used due to its lower installation cost and easier integration into homes. It offers a convenient and affordable option for residential charging, accommodating the needs of many EV owners with standard electrical systems. On the other hand, the 22 kWh charger is favoured in commercial settings or locations with higher charging demands, as its greater power capacity allows for faster charging sessions, benefiting a larger number of electric vehicles in a shorter period.

30 kWh to 360 kWh - also known as rapid chargers or Level 3 Chargers

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, are the pinnacle of electric vehicle charging technology. Unlike Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, they provide rapid charging through direct current (DC) power, significantly reducing charging times. Positioned along highways and major routes, Level 3 chargers enable long-distance travel by adding hundreds of miles of range in just 15-30 minutes. They surpass Level 1 and Level 2 chargers in speed and are best suited for intercity travel, commercial hubs, and high-traffic locations. With their ability to rapidly recharge EVs, Level 3 chargers play a crucial role in promoting the adoption and convenience of electric vehicles.

Smart Charging with different charging rates

Let’s illustrate how different chargers affect the prices of a typical charging session at home. First, we'll look into normal charging with different types of chargers, and then compare it to smart charging. In this example, we will use a Tesla Model 3 with the following inputs:

Normal Charge

3 kWh:

• Schedule: 17-00
• Cost: 8.55€

11 kWh:

• Schedule: 17-20
• Cost: 8.93€

22 kWh:

• Schedule: 17-19
• Cost: 8.69€

50 kWh:

• Schedule: 17-18
• Cost: 8.63€

Smart Charge

3 kWh:

• Schedule: 22-06
• Cost: 5.43€ (37% cheaper than normal charge)

11 kWh:

• Schedule: 02-05
• Cost: 3.93€ (55% cheaper than normal charge)

22 kWh:

• Schedule: 02-04
• Cost: 3.89€ (55% cheaper than normal charge)

50 kWh:

• Schedule: 03-04
• Cost: 3.88€ (55% cheaper than normal charge)

*Charging costs are exclusive of taxes and transmission costs.

In summary, we can see that a more powerful charger can generate savings if you use smart charge, but if you start charging when you get home, it might be more expensive to use than even the slowest charger. As another observation, smart charging is able to decrease the costs significantly in all cases.

Synergi offers smart charging for 90% of all EV brands, regardless of what charger you use. Whether you use Schuko, 11 kWh, 22 kWh, or even a more powerful charger - everything works with us.