Everything you need to know about electric vehicle (EV) connectors and charging speeds

Find out how long it'll take to charge your vehicle

Everything you need to know about electric vehicle connectors and charging speeds

There’s lots to love about the world of electric vehicles (EVs). For some, the joy is in the proverbial pat on the back from mother nature, whereas others love to geek out on the techie details. 

Well, whether you find yourself excited by the stats or terrified by the tech, then you’re in the right place. It’s time to take a deep dive into everything you need to know about home EV charging technology.

Types of EV charging connectors

An EV charging connector is where EV meets power; they’re the ports on your vehicle or chargepoint where connecting cables are plugged in to facilitate charging.

We understand that there is a lot of jargon surrounding this, and those doing their own research may quickly become overwhelmed by the options that have been available over the years. However, we’re here to make things simple, as is the Cord way!

All modern EVs use Type 2. The connector on any vehicle made after 2018 will use this connection type, and so too will your Cord charger. 

For high speed public charging, you’ll likely encounter the CCS (Combined Charging System) connector, a souped-up version of Type 2 which uses an additional 2 prongs, designed to offer fast charging.

AC and DC EV charging

Whether you’re a fan of golden-era rock bands from Australia, or decided to pay attention during secondary school physics, AC and DC might ring a bell. But what do they mean for home EV charging?

Alternating current (AC) charging provides your EV with smooth and steady charge, and is found in all home EV charge points. Direct current (DC) on the other hand is found in public charging stations, granting rapid charging by injecting charge straight into your battery. This swift punch of power offered by DC charging is however reliant on a high voltage connection to the grid, which makes it impossible to install at home.

In other words, you could think of AC charging as a comfortable power nap at home, helping you recharge for the day ahead, whilst DC charging is like heading to the nearest cafe and quickly enjoying 4 espressos.

3-pin wall socket vs. charge point

Home charging is available via two sources; a 3-pin wall socket, or a dedicated charge point. The former offers the ability to plug your EV straight into an existing socket at home, whereas a dedicated charge point requires installation. So, why opt for option two? Well, whilst the initial simplicity of a 3-pin wall socket charger may sound attractive, the caveats far outweigh the benefits.

Firstly, this option charges at a sluggish 2.3kW, contrasted starkly by the Cord EV charger’s brisk 7.4kW rate. This means far less time waiting before you’re back on the road.

The simplicity of wall socket charging is also very short-lived, as threading cables through windows and doors quickly becomes a hassle, unlike the tidiness of a wall-mounted charge point like Cord.

Finally - and most importantly - 3-pin charges aren’t considered totally safe for regular use, and are in fact not recommended by many EV manufacturers. That’s because a domestic socket will run at 3kW, so pushing it close to this limit with an EV charger can cause overheating, and - in a worst-case scenario - a fire. 

Charging speeds: What is a kW?

What is a kilowatt?

It actually dictates the rate at which a charger can power your EV with energy. Most properties are capable of delivering a maximum rate of 7.4kW. Rest assured, Cord EV chargers will deliver power at this rate, comfortably delivering a full charge to your EV overnight for a convenient start to your morning.

Home EV charging: The myths

Finally, there are some technical myths that we hear again and again, then we’re sure you have too. So, we’re here to dispel them!

• “I need a charger made specifically for my EV”: Cord chargers work with all modern EVs, ensuring universal compatibility.
• “I can’t leave my car plugged in whilst I’m out”: When charging, your EV locks its cable in a secure embrace, ensuring safety and allowing for carefree and longer charging sessions. Some EV manufacturers even encourage extended plug-ins to help regulate the battery health - even during your week-long getaway!
• “I won’t get adequate charge with a home charge point”: Your home charge point is perfectly capable of delivering a full charge. Whilst it may take longer than a public charge point, it will also be significantly cheaper and more convenient!

At Cord, we’re committed to making home EV charging easy. From helping to guide you through the head-tilting technicalities, to ensuring a simple process once you choose Cord, we’re here to help!

Connect with our friendly team here or begin a conversation using our live chat.