DC Fast Charging vs. AC Home Charging: Understanding the Differing Speed and Convenience Factors for Electric Vehicles
When it comes to charging electric vehicles (EVs), two primary methods stand out: DC fast charging and AC home charging. Each method has its unique advantages and disadvantages that drivers should consider based on their needs. This article explores the speed, convenience, and efficiency of both methods to help you make an informed decision.
Speed and Convenience: DC Fast Charging
DC Fast Charging involves driving to a dedicated charge station, where you wait for a free ‘electron pump’ to become available. You then have to wait for the charge to complete and may need to drive back home. While this method can offer significantly faster charging times, it often requires more planning and can be less convenient for daily use.
For example, a rapid charger or supercharger can charge a car to 80% in just 16 minutes. However, these stations typically require electricity substations capable of delivering high power outputs. For instance, my car can supercharge from 10% to 80% in a mere 16 minutes, but this comes at a cost of both time and money. Moreover, these stations can be expensive, with typical rates ranging from 70 pence to 1.00 per kWh, making a full charge cost around ￡50 for a typical car.
Speed and Convenience: AC Home Charging
In contrast, AC home charging is both faster and more convenient. It requires only a minute or two of interaction each day, with a simple plug-in when you arrive home and another when you leave. While the charging process may take several hours, the time spent interacting with the charging process is minimal.
According to UK standards, a 'fast' home charger can provide approximately 7 kW, which is powered by a domestic electricity supply. Since domestic supplies typically cannot exceed 32 amps, this 7 kW limit poses a restriction. However, this does not significantly impact the overall convenience of charging at home.
Comparing Charging Methods
While DC fast charging can offer quicker results, AC home charging still has its advantages. For instance, my car can charge on a standard charger from 220V and 16A. However, if I need to use a DC fast charger, it requires a different setup with a 440V and 80A connection, which is more complex and potentially dangerous.
Furthermore, AC home charging is less expensive, with typical domestic rates ranging from 32 pence to 38 pence per kWh. An overnight EV tariff can reduce this fee to as little as 8 pence per kWh, further lowering the overall cost. Additionally, I benefit from the UK grid's robustness, where lights do not dim when plugging in the car, and I can take advantage of solar power and storage batteries for even further savings.
Personal Experience and Savings
Personally, I find AC home charging to be a more convenient and efficient option. For instance, I am able to charge while sleeping, and my costs are significantly reduced thanks to a smart EV tariff. Even in winter, I can often get a free charge of 15 kWh while I eat my lunch, which is a significant bonus.
Conclusion
The choice between DC fast charging and AC home charging ultimately depends on individual needs and circumstances. While DC fast charging can offer quicker charging times, AC home charging provides greater convenience, lower costs, and fewer hassles for daily use. By considering the speed, cost, and practicality of each method, drivers can choose the charging solution that best suits their lifestyle and requirements.