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Have you ever wondered whether electric vehicles (EVs) on the road use AC (Alternating Current) or DC(Direct Current) power and the difference between AC and DC Charging?
This is closely related to how electric vehicles (EVs) are charged.
The difference between AC and DC charging for electric vehicles fundamentally lies in the difference between AC and DC charging. The most significant distinction is that AC charging is slow, while DC charging is fast.
One way to distinguish: devices with batteries typically use DC charging.
The power battery of a car essentially operates on DC power. However, the electricity transmitted by the national grid is AC. To charge vehicles, a module called a “charger” is required to convert AC electricity from the grid into DC power for the car’s power battery.
This charger can be integrated into charging stations, such as DC charging stations, or installed internally in vehicles, as is common with EVs that support slow charging.
So, what are the difference between AC and DC charging?
AC Charging:
AC power from the grid passes through AC charging stations and is then converted to DC power through onboard chargers inside the vehicle for battery charging. AC EV chargers, also known as AC power supply devices, are commonly referred to as “slow charging.” They are fixed installations located outside electric vehicles and connected to the AC power grid. They provide AC power to the onboard chargers installed in electric vehicles, which then convert it to DC power for battery charging. These stations only provide power output and do not have charging functions. They require connection to the onboard chargers to charge electric vehicles, with power ratings typically ranging from 3.5kW to 7kW. For vehicles, “slow charging” typically takes around 6 to 8 hours to fully charge.
DC Charging:
AC power from the grid passes through DC charging stations, where it is converted to DC power directly by chargers within the charging stations. This eliminates the need for the vehicle’s onboard chargers and allows direct charging of the battery pack. DC EV chargers, also known as non-vehicle-mounted chargers, are commonly referred to as “fast charging.” They are fixed installations located outside electric vehicles and connected to the AC power grid. These stations provide DC power directly to the battery packs of non-vehicle-mounted electric vehicles, with power ratings typically ranging from 40kW to 60kW, and sometimes higher. Due to faster charging efficiency, DC charging stations are typically found near highways. “Fast charging” usually takes around 1.5 to 3 hours to fully charge the battery.
Due to the differences in charging modes, the charging interfaces also differ. AC charging stations typically have 7-pin plugs, while DC chargers have 9-pin plugs. Additionally, DC chargers are larger due to the inclusion of AC-DC power modules, which increase in number with higher power outputs.
The statement that DC is fast charging and AC is slow charging is not entirely accurate.
The charging speed is determined by the charging power. DC chargers integrate charging modules, allowing for higher power outputs, typically ranging from 15 kW to 200 kW or higher. AC charging, on the other hand, relies on onboard chargers with limited power and volume, resulting in slower charging speeds. Therefore, AC charging is often referred to as “slow charging,” while DC charging is termed “fast charging.”
In terms of which is better, there is no absolute answer. The best choice depends on individual usage scenarios.
| Charging Comparison | Charging Time | Price | Impact on Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Slow Charging | Typically 6-8 hours | Lower charger cost | Minimal impact on battery |
| DC Fast Charging | Charges to 80% in half an hour | Higher charger cost | Long-term use may slightly affect battery |
If long-distance travel is infrequent, AC slow charging is sufficient. For emergency charging needs, DC fast charging is convenient and efficient, charging to 80% in just half an hour.
Regarding charging-related questions:
Q: Are all DC charging methods fast charging?
A: Not necessarily. DC charging methods also include low-power options, such as portable chargers, whose charging speed depends on the charger’s power.
Q: Does a higher charging station power result in faster charging speeds?
A: Not necessarily. Charging speed is controlled by the Electric Vehicle’s Battery Management System (BMS). When the charging station power is less than that of the EV, a higher charging station power results in faster charging. However, when the charging station power equals or exceeds that of the EV, the charging speed is determined by the vehicle’s maximum power setting.
Q: Does high-power fast charging damage the vehicle’s power battery?
A: Fast charging itself does not damage the battery, but frequent fast charging may slightly affect battery compared to slow charging.
If you have any further questions or experiences regarding electric vehicle charging, feel free to share in the comments section!
