A Guide to EV Charging: Everything You Need to Know
A GUIDE TO EV CHARGING: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
With the rapid growth of the electrical vehicle market, EV chargers have emerged as a critical infrastructure to support the development of EVs. The rise of electric vehicle charging stations provides convenience and flexibility to EV owners while also having a positive influence on the environment, energy costs, and sustainable development. However, knowing when and how to charge an electric vehicle is one of the most common worries among EV owners. This is mainly due to average Singaporeans being used to travelling in petrol-powered vehicles, which are significantly easier to fill up. EV charging, on the other hand, requires a little more planning.
What is EV Charging?
Electric vehicle (EV) charging is the process of replenishing the energy in an EV’s battery. This is achieved by connecting the EV to a charging station or charger. A charging station, also known as an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), is a device that provides electricity to charge EVs. There are three types of EV charging solutions available for your requirements, and they are as follows.
- Level 1 (Slow Charging)
- Level 2 (Fast Charging)
- Level 3 (Rapid Charging)
Level 1 chargers are commonly used at home or at work and have a low charging capacity when plugged into a standard AC power outlet. Level 2 chargers, on the other hand, provide a higher charging capacity and can charge an EV more quickly. They are typically found in public EV charging stations or places where electric vehicles are parked for a lengthy period of time, such as parking lots or shopping malls. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are categorised as AC chargers since they use alternating current to power an EV. Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, are the fastest type of EV charging available and have the highest charging capacity among all three chargers. They use direct current (DC) to charge a vehicle’s battery and are perfect for long-distance driving or when an EV driver needs a quick charge.
Factors Influencing EV Charging Speed
One of the most common queries among EV owners is, ‘What determines charging speed?’ The answer to this issue can be nuanced since there are several elements that contribute to the overall time it takes to charge an EV. Here are the key factors that influence electric vehicle charging speed.
1. Battery Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of an EV battery can vary significantly between models. The larger the battery, the longer it will take to charge. Furthermore, charging time within the same model can vary depending on the battery configuration chosen by the owner.
2. State of Charge (SOC)
When an EV is plugged into an EV charging station, the battery’s state of charge (SOC) can also affect the charging time. Generally, when the battery is nearly empty, the charging time is often faster than when it is almost full.
3. Ambient Temperature
The temperature of the air surrounding an EV can also have an effect on its charging time. During extremely hot or cold temperatures, charging can take longer, and some charging stations may also automatically lower the charging speeds to prevent battery cells from overheating.
4. Usage of Other EV Functions
When using a public charging station, you can sit in your vehicle while it charges. In the meantime, if you use the radio, air conditioning or any other accessory, it can extend the charge time. This is due to the fact that some of the battery’s charge will be used to power the other functions in use.
5. Battery Deterioration
Although it will take time, batteries can degrade and lose charge capability over time. As each EV is unique, it usually comes with a warranty that ensures an optimal functioning period before battery deterioration occurs.
KED Energy – Your Trusted Partner for the Best EV Chargers in Singapore
Whether you are seeking EV charging solutions for personal use or commercial use, look no further than KED Energy. They have an in-depth understanding of the EV charger market and deliver cost-efficient and effective solutions for sustainability. They provide and install EV charging stations for both businesses and residences. KED Energy is also a Tesla-certified installer, having conducted multiple installation projects for superchargers and Tesla home chargers. To learn more about their product and service offerings, visit their website today!
