Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the automotive landscape, and understanding electric car chargers is essential for anyone considering the switch to an EV. From the basics of how chargers work, to their associated costs and benefits, this guide will answer all your questions about EV charging.
How Do Electric Car Chargers Work?
At their core, electric car chargers transfer electricity from a power source to an EV’s battery, much like charging a smartphone or laptop. The process, however, can vary depending on the type of charger and the power level.
- Level 1 Chargers: These chargers use a standard household outlet (240 volts) and are ideal for slow, overnight charging. They typically add about 8-10 km of range per hour and will take (on average) 24 hours for a 0-100% charge. This is subjective to electric vehicle itself and the size of the battery.
- Level 2 Chargers: AC EV chargers are much faster (though not as fast as DC chargers) and are installed directly into a switchboard therefore are much more powerful. These fast EV chargers can add about 30-50km of range per hour, depending on the power available and the electric vehicle. These chargers are commonly installed at home or work for more frequent and rapid top-ups.
- DC Fast Chargers: These chargers use direct current (DC) to charge vehicle’s battery directly and deliver much higher power levels, allowing them to charge an EV battery from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes. DC fast charging requires very significant power supply therefore not suitable for homes and sites with very limited power. Most public charging stations at shopping centres or along motorways will be DC powered and is ideal for quick stops on long trips.
The Mennekes or Type 2 connector has been standardised as the AC connector across Australian electric vehicles. Although some older EVs still use Type 1, if you purchased your EV post-2018, it will most likely be a Type 2. The Type 2 connector allows for 3-phase charging (with a three phase/22kW cable) whereas the Type 1 was only available in single phase.
For EV owners, choosing between home charging, portable EV chargers, and fast DC charging options depends on their daily driving range and access to charging points.
Is Electric Car Charging Cheaper Than Petrol?
One of the significant benefits of EVs is the potential for cost savings on fuel. Generally, electric charging is much cheaper than petrol or diesel, and with rising fuel prices, EVs become increasingly economical.
- Home Charging: Charging at home is often the most affordable option, especially when done during off-peak electricity hours. A full charge might cost anywhere from $2-10 depending on local electricity rates, your EV’s battery capacity and your use of renewable energy. You can use our calculator to see your cost to charge.
- Public Charging Stations: Public stations will have higher rates than home charging, though many are priced competitively. Some workplaces and shopping centres even offer free charging as a customer convenience. For AC chargers, you can expect on average a cost of $0.30 – $0.40 per kW/h. Using a DC charger is a higher cost, but often the most convenient. On average, the cost to charge at a public DC charger is $0.45-$0.65 per kW/h.
- Renewable Energy Benefits: For those with solar panels, charging an EV can be even cheaper, potentially making it free when the vehicle is charged during sunny periods. In this case, EVs clearly have significant savings over petrol-powered vehicles.
In contrast, filling up a petrol or diesel car can easily cost $60-$100 or more, depending on current fuel prices. The lower cost of charging, especially when done at home, makes EVs a more economical choice in the long run.
What Powers Electric Car Charging Stations?
Electric Car Charging Stations require a robust electrical infrastructure and, increasingly, renewable energy sources are being incorporated to power these stations sustainably. The primary sources of power for EV chargers are:
- Electricity from the Grid: The majority of electric car chargers draw power from the grid, supplied by electricity providers. These chargers are generally installed by power companies or businesses in public locations, ensuring EV drivers have access to reliable energy.
- Solar-Powered Charging Stations: Many charging stations are now powered by solar panels, helping to reduce the environmental impact of EVs. Solar-powered stations are common in areas with high sunlight exposure and can be connected to battery storage systems, allowing them to charge EVs even when the sun isn’t shining.
- Wind and Other Renewable Sources: Some regions are experimenting with using wind and hydroelectric power to supply EV charging infrastructure, contributing to a greener EV ecosystem.
The growing integration of renewable energy into EV Fast Charger networks aligns with global sustainability goals, making EVs an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles.
What are Electric Car Charging Points?
Electric car charging points, also known as charging stations, are locations equipped with chargers to provide power to EVs. These stations come in various formats, from small home setups to large public charging hubs, catering to different types of EV users.
- Home Charging Points: Many EV owners opt for home charging points, such as the Tesla Wall Charger or Portable EV Charger. Home charging points are usually Level 2 AC chargers that are installed in garages or driveways, providing convenient, overnight charging.
- Public Charging Points: Public charging points are available in shopping centres, parking lots, and along highways. These stations can range from Level 2 chargers to DC fast chargers, accommodating EVs needing a quick top-up.
- Workplace Charging Points: Many businesses now offer EV charging as a perk for employees. Workplace chargers encourage EV adoption by making charging convenient during working hours. These are usually Level 2, AC chargers.
- On-the-Go Charging: Portable charging units allow for charging flexibility wherever a suitable outlet is available, making it ideal for emergencies or when other charging points are unavailable.
These charging points, whether at home, work, or public spaces, create a comprehensive network that supports EV drivers and promotes the growth of electric mobility.
Costs of Electric Car Charging
The cost of using Electric Car Chargers depends on several factors, including the type of charger, electricity rates, and location. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
- Home Charging Costs: Charging at home is usually the cheapest option. Homeowners can install a Level 2 charger for faster charging speeds, costing anywhere from $1,700 to $3,500, including installation fees. Charging an EV at home can cost around $0.20 to $0.30 per kWh, depending on electricity rates and peak/off-peak pricing.
- Public Charging Costs: Public charging stations may charge per kWh, per minute, or with a flat fee. DC fast chargers are generally more expensive due to their high power output, and pricing can range from $0.35 to $0.65 per kWh. Some charging stations are free to use, especially in commercial areas or workplaces.
- Portable EV Charger Costs: Portable chargers come with an upfront cost, and they can use standard outlets without the need for dedicated installations. Portable chargers are convenient but slower than dedicated Level 2 chargers, so they’re often used as backups or for emergency situations.
The overall costs of charging an EV remain significantly lower than traditional fuel, especially for home chargers, making them a cost-effective option for daily commutes and city driving.
Benefits of Electric Car Charging Points
Charging an EV offers unique benefits beyond just cost savings. Here’s why many drivers are choosing EVs and EV Fast Chargers over traditional petrol stations:
- Convenience: With a home Electric Car Charger, EV owners can recharge overnight, eliminating the need for trips to a petrol station. Many also have the option to charge at work or public locations, which can be time-saving.
- Environmental Impact: Charging EVs, especially when powered by renewable sources, contributes to reduced emissions and a lower carbon footprint, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
- Reduced Maintenance: Electric vehicles have fewer components than petrol vehicles, reducing the overall maintenance required for drivers.
- Scalability and Innovation: The EV charging network is rapidly expanding, and new technologies, such as smart chargers and app-connected systems, make EV charging easier and more efficient.
Conclusion
Electric vehicle charging is an essential part of EV ownership, providing a cost-effective, convenient, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuels. Whether you’re using an EV Fast Charger at a public station or a portable EV charger at home, the options for charging continue to expand, making EVs an increasingly accessible choice for Australians.
EVSE offers a range of electric car chargers for both home and public use, helping drivers embrace electric mobility with confidence. Explore our selection of EV chargers and accessories to find the best solution for your needs, and join Australia’s growing EV community today.
