Which type of charging point does my EV fleet need?

There are two types of EV charging point commonly available: fast and rapid. These are defined by how much power they can discharge, measured in kilowatts (kW). (What are sometimes known as ‘slow’ charging points are effectively little more than plug sockets, and not something we’d ever recommend for fleet use.)

Rapid chargers

• Typically DC (Direct current)
• Power output is 50kW+
• Common connectors are CCS and CHAdeMO

Fast chargers

• Typically AC (Alternating current)
• Power output ranges from 7-22kW
• Common connector is Type 2

How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?

Charging times tend to be around ten hours for a 7kW fast charger. For a 22kW charger, they’re closer to two-and-a-half hours.

Rapid charging points are in use at motorway service stations. They’re useful in these locations, as they reduce wait times and prevent journey delays, but come at a cost premium.

If your fleet‘s always busy, or your drivers need to cover long distances quickly, you may find that rapid chargers are an ideal solution.

If most of your EVs are only in use during limited working hours, and last a full day on a single charge, then fast charging could be right for you.

Fast charging is best for vehicles that are stationary overnight. The longer charging period shouldn’t affect availability, and you’ll also benefit from off-peak power prices.

Fast charging can help conserve your EVs’ battery lives too, as they keep temperatures lower through a less rapid energy transfer.

If your chargers are using AC, then their charging speed also depends on the power rating of each of your vehicles’ on-board chargers, as well as the power output of the charge point.

So an EV with a 7kW on-board charger will only charge at 7kW if plugged in to a 22kW AC charge point. Which might make it unnecessary to invest in those charging points in the first place.

That’s why we evaluate each customer’s charging requirements based on the vehicles in their fleet to determine the maximum capability of their vehicles. This helps us recommend the right AC fast charge points for them.

Future-proof your charge points

When you’ve made the decision about the right mix of chargers for your fleet, you’ll want to future-proof your investment, too.

Given that conventional internal combustion engine vehicles won’t be sold in the UK after 2030, now’s the ideal time to be considering the question.

This may need considerable investment. Each charge point will have to be installed by a skilled and qualified technician, along with infrastructure – holes and cables – to support them.

The Government’s Workplace Charging Scheme – and the 130% super-deduction – make now a better time than ever to begin your journey towards electrification.

With the 2030 deadline coming ever closer, many fleet managers are considering how to find the right partner to help them.

We can help organisations of any size to make the switch to a more sustainable commercial fleet.

Every customer is different. So we’ll carry out a full audit and help you to define your fleet requirements and find the right charging solution. Then we’ll recommend the best equipment for your needs. It’s a bespoke solution that is tailored to you and your organisation.

Please get in touch to find out more.