Are you driving an electric vehicle? If yes, then you need to learn to speak the language of understanding. Electric vehicles are still a new concept for many. So, there are various aspects that require understanding and awareness. However, there is nothing to worry about as we are here to help.
Similar to the gas stations, we now have EV charging stations. Remember that whenever we talk about EVs, manufacturers and charging stations do not expect you to understand the terms like terabytes, gallons, kilobytes, etc. They dumb down the working and make it easy for the common public.
EVs in New Zealand
New Zealand is well-positioned to benefit from an increased uptake in EVs. This is because more than 80% of electricity is generated from renewable sources, and a sufficient renewable energy supply is available to support the widespread adoption of EVs. Therefore, the emission reduction benefits of EVs are greater in New Zealand than in other countries that generate less renewable energy. Additionally, the average daily commute is relatively short (<40km), and the majority of households have access to off-street parking with an electrical outlet to charge EVs.
The cost of charging an electric vehicle in NZ
The cost of charging an electric automobile is determined by the amount of driving you do. If you’re like most Kiwis, who drive 25-35km per day on average, charging at home will cost roughly $3 every 100km (the equivalent of $0.30 per liter of petrol). If you use quick charging, the cost every 100 kilometers might be as high as $10.
These are estimates based on criteria such as how far you travel and the sort of driving you to do (around town, hills, or highways). Regardless, you’ll save a lot of money compared to filling up with gasoline or diesel.
Categories of EV charging infrastructure
EV batteries are typically charged using chargers that are connected to the electric power grid. The power system provides alternating current (AC), but an electric vehicle’s battery requires direct current (DC). Depending on the technology, AC to DC conversion might happen in the car or the charger.
· AC Charging for EV
A built-in inverter converts AC (from the grid) to DC inside the vehicle. The AC-DC converter unit’s capacity influences how much of the charging station’s available charging capacity can be used. Currently, the greatest charging capacity available via AC charging at home is 22kW on a three-phase connection and 11kW on a single-phase connection. In a home / low voltage situation, this form of charging is most commonly employed (2.3- 22kW range).
· DC Charging for EV
Outside the car, AC (from the grid) is converted to DC in an external charger. The charging point can charge at high power (usually in excess of 50kW) thanks to direct current (DC). The car battery is in direct touch with the charging point. Typically, this sort of charging is utilized for public fast charging.
· Wireless Charging for EV
Electromagnetic waves are used to charge the batteries in this system. A charging pad linked to a wall socket and a plate attached to the car is commonly used. Wireless chargers currently available can deliver up to 11kW (for home use) and 75kW (for commercial use) (for public chargers). Designed for garaged vehicles in a home setting (3-11 kW range).
Charging your car
We measure electricity in kilowatt-hours (kWh) rather than liters, so you’re less likely to hear electric car drivers discuss dollars per liter and more likely to hear them discuss:
The cost of electricity is expressed in cents per kWh, which determines the cost of travel and charging.
Km per kWh, which is similar to miles per gallon,’ or how far you can drive for a unit of electricity.
kWh as a battery size gives you an idea of how far you can drive (range).
kW as a charging speed gives you an idea of how quickly you can recharge (e.g., a 30kWh battery should take around 10 hours to recharge with a 3kW charger).
You may recharge your automobile using the standard 230 volt AC energy in our homes and the regular plug we use for all household appliances, albeit specialized equipment is faster and safer. WorkSafe, the electrical safety authority, publishes instructions on its website about what is required and recommended for electric vehicle charging equipment, sockets, and wiring in both private and public settings.
Bottom Line
Hopefully, you know enough about the charging stations to hop in your electric car and drive away without worrying about getting stuck on your way. Still, never hesitate to ask questions as the expert electrician team of DJ Spark is here to ensure that you get more clarity on EV charging and EV charger installation. Also, if you need EV charging services, get in touch for more information.