How to choose the right charging station for electric cars?
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Currently, there are nearly 10 million electric cars globally, with numbers growing rapidly every year. In 2019, EV sales exceeded 2.1 million, marking a 6% increase compared to 2018 and a 30% growth since 2016. As the number of EVs continues to rise, so does the demand for charging stations worldwide.
In Lithuania, the development of charging stations is progressing at an impressive pace. These stations are now appearing not only in major cities but also in smaller towns, making electric cars and plug-in hybrids increasingly popular and accessible. While the number of charging stations is growing, there can be confusion about the different types. This guide will help you better understand EV charging stations.
What is a charging station?
EV charging stations are categorized by their functionality, power output, and technical specifications. There are three main charging types—from the slowest to the fastest. Learn more here: https://www.evlaidai.lt/kokie-yra-elektromobiliu-ikrovimo-stoteliu-tipai.
What charging stations do we offer?
Our website offers eight different types of charging stations, varying in connectors and phases. The first question that comes to mind is how to choose the right charging station.
First, determine the type of cable required for your EV. On our website, you can choose between Type 1 and Type 2 cables.
Type 1 connectors are commonly used in the United States and Japan, found in cars like the Nissan Leaf, Kia Soul EV, and Chevrolet Volt, as well as U.S.-specific models of the BMW i3 and Volkswagen e-Golf.
Type 2 connectors meet European standards and are used in models such as the Hyundai Ioniq, Volkswagen e-Up!, Renault ZOE, and European versions of the Volkswagen e-Golf and BMW i3.
Next, identify whether a single-phase or three-phase charging station is suitable. A three-phase station is more powerful and charges an EV much faster. If you plan to install a charging station at home, check whether your electrical system is single-phase or three-phase. Also, consider your EV's capabilities, as some are designed with single-phase components and won't charge faster with a three-phase station.
Once you’ve determined the right connector and phase, choose a charging station that meets your needs. On our website, you’ll also find the HOMEBOX DUO station, which allows you to charge two EVs simultaneously.
What are the prices of charging stations?
All our charging station prices are listed here. Single-phase charging stations with various connectors start at €350. Three-phase stations with Type 2 connectors cost €400, and the previously mentioned HOMEBOX DUO charging station is available for €450.
We also offer additional equipment. For an extra €50, we can include a Wi-Fi module that allows you to control and monitor the charging station using your phone or computer.
Additionally, for €50, we offer an accounting module that displays both the last charging session and total energy consumption (kWh) on an LCD screen. For some charging stations, we also provide optional features like an extra single-phase socket with a C16A breaker or activation via a key for €20.
If you're still unsure which charging station is best for you, contact us using the details provided on our website, and we’ll help you find the ideal solution.
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