The Benefits of Using AC EV Charging Station

EV charging stations are becoming more commonplace. Most charging stations you see are AC chargers. Until recently, AC chargers have been the only option. But in recent years new technology known as DC Fast Chargers has been developed allowing companies to apply a different type of technology to charge vehicles faster than the standard AC chargers

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The proportion of DC fast chargers to AC chargers is growing. But for many people, the question remains AC vs DC EV charging, which charging station should be used for fleet vehicles? Should companies with depots install AC chargers or DC chargers? That’s the question we’ll seek to answer in this article.

 To help introduce you to the world of AC vs DC and their differences, there are two key things to remember:

• The electricity from the grid (like a wall socket in your home) is always AC (alternating current).
• Electric Vehicle Batteries always store and use DC (direct current).

AC and DC operate differently. They flow in different ways, serve different purposes, and impact charging speed and efficiency in unique ways.

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What is the Difference Between AC and DC Charging Current?

What is AC Charging for Electric Vehicles

Alternating current (AC) power can be described simply as the standard electricity that comes out of power stations and travels along power lines to homes and other buildings, sometimes referred to as mains or utility power.

What is DC Charging for Electric Vehicles

Direct current (DC) power, as the name suggests, is the electric current that moves in a straight line.

Direct current can come from multiple sources, including batteries, solar cells, fuel cells, petrol generators, and some modified alternators. DC power can also be "made" from AC power by using a rectifier that converts AC to DC.

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Differences between AC vs DC EV Chargers

Your outlet delivers AC power, and your vehicle battery needs DC power.

The only way to achieve this is to convert AC power into a DC power output. This is what we call an AC to DC converter (AC-DC converter).

AC EV Chargers require you to build this converter into your vehicle. This means that the vehicle has its own small AC-DC converter. So, the vehicle receives AC power from the charge point, then the vehicle converts it to DC power.

DC EV Chargers require you to build this converter into your charge point. This means the chargers have their own built-in AC-DC converter, and the vehicle receives DC power directly. No conversion is required inside the vehicle.

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EV Charging Curves

The key difference between AC and DC charging curves lies in how much power the battery can accept over time.

AC Charging Curve

AC chargers rely on your car's built-in converter, which typically handles a constant power level. This translates to a flat charging curve on a graph.  The car steadily charges the battery at a set rate until full.

DC Charging Curve

DC fast chargers have a more powerful converter and deliver DC power directly to the battery. However, for battery health reasons, the ideal charging rate isn't constant. DC charging curves typically start high, allowing for rapid initial charging. As the battery fills up, the curve slopes downward, reducing the power input to prevent overheating. This creates a decreasing, curved line on a graph.

Are Car Batteries AC or DC?
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Batteries need DC power. And there is a simple reason. Just like any other battery - a car battery uses and provides DC power. This means the load flows in one single direction and is stored using a chemical process.

As mentioned, AC current changes direction periodically. To store AC, a battery’s terminal needs to change polarity (+ and -) at the same speed, which is not possible. Connecting an AC supply to a battery to store AC power means the battery charges only during the positive half-cycle and then discharges during the negative half cycle.

In other words, there is no way a car can store AC power in a battery.

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Why is DC Charging Faster than AC?

The faster you want to charge a battery - the more power you need to provide. Fast charging is usually above 50 kW, and slow charging typically between 1-22 kW to provide more power when charging a battery, you need a much larger AC-DC converter.

The problem is - converting high power from AC and DC is expensive. A large converter easily costs USD 10,000.

This high-power charging is best carried out with the converters built into the charging station rather than the vehicles so you’re not dragging around heavy and expensive converters dragged around with you in your car.

That’s the main reason why DC chargers appear to be faster than AC chargers. They aren’t really any faster; it’s just much easier and cheaper to generate high-power DC output within the charger rather than convert the output from an AC charger in the vehicle itself.

When do I Choose AC EV Charging?

AC charging is best for regular charging needs such as:

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• Home
• Work
• Errands

Pros of AC Charging

• Cost-effective: AC chargers are generally less expensive to install and maintain.
• Widely available: AC charging stations are more common and can be found in homes, workplaces, and public parking areas.
• Gentler on battery: AC charging is typically slower and less stressful on the battery, which can help prolong its lifespan.

Cons of AC Charging

• Slower charging: AC charging takes longer to fully charge an EV compared to DC charging.
• Limited power output: AC chargers have a lower power output, which can be a drawback for EVs with larger batteries or for drivers who need a quick charge.

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When do I Choose DC EV Charging?

DC chargers cost a lot more than AC chargers. DC chargers require more space and require much more complex spare parts to facilitate processes such as active cooling.

In addition, high power charging requires a high power connection to the grid. With a typical residential grid connection, you won’t be able to install a DC charger.

DC fast charging is best for situations where time is tight such as:

• Road Trips
• Low Battery Emergencies
• Fleet Vehicles

Pros of DC Charging

• Faster charging: DC chargers can significantly reduce charging time, making them ideal for long-distance travel or when time is limited.
• Higher power output: DC chargers deliver more power, allowing for faster charging of EVs with larger batteries.

Cons of DC Charging

• Expensive: DC chargers are more expensive to install and maintain due to their complex technology and higher power requirements.
• Less available: DC charging stations are less common and may be harder to find, especially in residential areas.
• Potential battery degradation: Frequent use of DC fast charging can generate heat and stress on the battery, which may lead to faster degradation over time.

The rule of thumb is: Install DC chargers when you need fast charging and install AC chargers when you don’t.

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Conclusion

DC fast chargers are ideal for charging EVs that need to be back on the road quickly. But they are more expensive to install and maintain than AC chargers.

If time is of the essence for your fleet, then DC chargers are going to be the best option.

If you have a mixed fleet of vehicles - i.e., some that need fast charging and some that don’t, then a mixture of AC and DC chargers is best.

Either way, smart charging software for electric vehicles can help fleet managers to offset some or all of the extra initial outlay by reducing ongoing energy costs.

Read more about AC and DC charging here: How to mix AC and DC charging stations?

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One significant advantage of AC electric car charging stations is their cost-effectiveness. AC chargers are relatively cheaper to install and maintain than their DC counterparts. The technology used in AC chargers is mature and widely available, resulting in lower equipment costs. Additionally, AC chargers can utilize the existing electrical infrastructure in many locations, reducing the need for extensive upgrades or investments in new infrastructure. This makes AC EV charging stations a practical choice for businesses, municipalities, and residential areas aiming to establish a comprehensive charging network without incurring substantial financial burdens.

Regarding charging time, AC EV charging stations demonstrate impressive efficiency. AC chargers, typically ranging from Level 1 (residential charging) to Level 2 (commercial charging), provide a reliable and time-efficient charging solution for EVs. Level 2 AC chargers, commonly found in public charging networks and workplaces, offer faster charging speeds than Level 1 chargers. This reduces the overall charging time and enhances the convenience for EV users. With AC electric charging stations, EV owners can replenish their vehicle’s battery levels quickly and efficiently, allowing them to resume their journeys with minimal waiting time.

One of the primary challenges of AC EV charging stations is the limited charging range they offer compared to their DC fast charging counterparts. AC charging typically provides a lower charging rate, resulting in longer charging times. While this is less of an issue for overnight charging or during extended periods of vehicle inactivity, it can pose a challenge for those needing a quick recharge. However, advancements in AC charging technology are underway, with research focusing on increasing charging speeds without compromising safety and reliability. These advancements, coupled with improvements in battery technology, will gradually alleviate this challenge, enabling AC EV charging stations to offer more competitive charging ranges.

Compared to DC fast charging stations, AC charging stations are known for their relatively slower charging speeds. This aspect can inconvenience EV owners who require a quick turnaround for their charging needs. However, it is important to note that AC charging stations are primarily designed for overnight charging or longer periods of vehicle parking. A combination of solutions can be employed. For example, the installation of a greater number of AC charging stations at strategic locations can reduce congestion and waiting times. Additionally, ongoing research in charging technology aims to enhance AC charging speeds, making them more efficient and time-effective.

The compatibility between AC electric car charging stations and various EV models can be challenging due to different charging standards and connector types. While many EV manufacturers have adopted standardized connectors, variations still exist. Efforts are being made to establish universal charging standards that accommodate multiple EV models. This involves collaboration between industry stakeholders, standardization bodies, and governments to create a unified framework for EV charging. As these efforts progress, the compatibility challenge will gradually diminish, allowing AC EV charging stations to cater to a wider range of electric vehicles.

As of the latest data, the number of AC EV charging stations worldwide has soared to unprecedented heights. This surge can be attributed to the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the progressive efforts made by governments, organizations, and individuals to promote sustainable transportation alternatives.

AC EV chargers have become a pivotal component of the infrastructure required to support the widespread use of electric vehicles. They are crucial in providing convenient and reliable charging options for EV owners, alleviating range anxiety concerns and contributing to electric mobility’s overall feasibility and attractiveness.

standards that accommodate multiple EV models. This involves collaboration between industry stakeholders, standardization bodies, and governments to create a unified framework for EV charging. As these efforts progress, the compatibility challenge will gradually diminish, allowing AC EV charging stations to cater to a wider range of electric vehicles.

The establishment and operation of AC electric car charging stations involve a diverse range of providers, including both public and private entities. Numerous companies and organizations have emerged as key players in this burgeoning market, recognizing the immense potential and demand for charging infrastructure.

Private companies specializing in energy and technology sectors have invested significantly in developing and deploying AC EV wall box. These providers leverage their expertise and resources to offer cutting-edge charging solutions that cater to the evolving needs of electric vehicle users. Simultaneously, collaborations between governments and private enterprises have played a vital role in scaling up the availability of AC EV charging stations, fostering an ecosystem that encourages sustainable transportation choices.

Despite the notable progress in the proliferation of AC electric charging stations, ensuring widespread availability remains an ongoing challenge. The accessibility and distribution of charging stations are key factors in facilitating the seamless integration of electric vehicles into our daily lives.

Urban areas have witnessed greater deployment of AC electric vehicle charging stations, considering the concentration of EV users and higher demand. However, efforts are being made to expand charging infrastructure to suburban and rural regions to promote inclusivity and encourage the adoption of electric mobility on a broader scale.

Moreover, enhancing the interoperability and compatibility of AC EV charging stations across different networks and platforms is crucial. Standardization initiatives and technological advancements are being pursued to ensure EV owners can access charging facilities seamlessly, regardless of location or the charging station provider.