EV charging is quite similar to charging your phone. Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, or EVSE, brings electricity from an outside source into the car’s battery, which is often called a charging station. This guide describes EV charging types, speeds, plugs, and usage in Australia.

Types of EV Chargers

EV chargers are classified into three levels depending on their power output. Level 1 chargers use alternating current and deliver 1.4 kW to 3.7 kW, which is comparable to a standard home power outlet. They add 10–20 km of driving range per hour and are best for overnight or long-duration charging. Level 2 chargers are also AC, but they have faster charging and offer a power range of 7 kW to 22 kW. These chargers add 30–130 km of range per hour and are mostly installed in homes, workplaces, and public stations. Level 3 chargers, or DC fast chargers, are the quickest to charge. They deliver between 25 kW to 350 kW. Their range is added at 150–300 km per hour. Some EVs can be charged to 80% in 10–15 minutes.

Types of Charging Plugs

The three main types of charging plugs used by Australian EVs are Type 2 (Mennekes) for AC charging, Combined Charging System (CCS2) for DC fast charging, and CHAdeMO for DC fast charging. CCS2 is now the standard for DC charging, and since 2020, all new EVs sold in Australia come with both AC and DC plugs. Type 2 plugs are common and widespread across public charging points, though the CHAdeMO variant is less so and only offered in some models.

Charging Location

The user can charge at home, in the office, or elsewhere through public access locations. It can be best carried out during night or even during long-term by using the dedicated Level 2 charger at the house, which can easily substitute a simple wall outlet for that purpose. Many workplaces also offer charging facilities as an added benefit to employees. Public charging stations are located at highway service centers, supermarkets, hotels, and carparks. Online charging maps can assist you in finding public stations near you and in planning long journeys.

How to Use an EV Charger

The process of using an EV charger involves plugging in the car, starting the charging process, monitoring progress, and disconnecting once done. To charge your vehicle, attach the charging cable to the station or use the attached cable and connect it to your EV. If the charger is free, charging will start automatically. If the charger requires payment, the charger screen will have instructions on how to complete the payment using a card or app. Indicator lights on the EV or charging station display indicate the status of charging and time remaining. Once it is fully charged, unplug the cable and have the station ready for the next user.

Etiquette and Safety

When using public charging stations, it is essential to be courteous. Charge your EV to 80% when using fast chargers to ensure battery health and reduce wait times for others. Avoid occupying the station longer than necessary and report any damage to the charge point operator, whose contact information is usually displayed on the charger. Remember to be patient with other users, as charging times can vary, especially for those new to EVs.

Charging an electric vehicle is now much faster and easier for every driver’s needs, ranging from basic, convenient to more complex high-power charging options. Understanding types of chargers, plugs, and proper usage of the EVs will be most beneficial to maximizing Australia’s developing EV charging infrastructure.