When considering installing a charging station for your electric vehicle, it is essential to understand the differences between the two main types of stations: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current).
These differences determine not only the charging speed but also the cost and technology involved.
AC Charging Station for Electric Vehicles
The electricity we use daily is alternating current (AC). However, electric vehicle batteries can only be charged with direct current (DC). To solve this problem, all electric cars are equipped with an internal converter, called an onboard converter.
This converter transforms AC electricity into DC electricity before injecting it into the vehicle's battery. The capacity of the onboard converter in many car models is limited to 11 kW. Thus, even if your AC charging station can provide 22 kW, charging will be limited to 11 kW due to the car's converter capacity.
However, with the arrival of new vehicle models on the market, the capacity of internal converters will increase, allowing full utilization of 22 kW charging.
DC Charging Station for Electric Vehicles
Unlike AC stations, DC stations have a converter inside the station itself. This allows AC electricity to be converted into DC electricity before it reaches the car. This process eliminates the need to use the vehicle's onboard converter, thus allowing direct current to be supplied directly to the battery.
DC stations are generally larger and more expensive than AC stations due to the additional technology required to integrate the converter into the station itself. However, they offer faster charging, ensuring stable power regardless of the vehicle's internal converter.
Price of AC and DC Stations
The price of an Easee or Zaptec 22 kW AC charging station (excluding installation and electrician work) varies depending on the model between 850 and 1000 CHF including VAT, making it an economical and efficient solution for charging your electric vehicle at home or at work.
DC stations, on the other hand, while offering faster charging, are significantly more expensive. For example, a Schneider 22kW DC charging station costs approximately 4680 CHF including VAT, almost five times more expensive than an AC station from Easee or Zaptec that AMP IT installs for its customers.
| Station Type | Brand/Model | Power | Price (CHF incl. VAT) | Value for money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC | Easee/Zaptec | 22 kW | 850 - 1000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| DC | Schneider | 22 kW | 4680 | ⭐⭐ |
DC station = 5x more expensive than an AC station
Savings with AC: 3680 - 3830 CHF
Advantages and Disadvantages: AC vs DC
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Station | • Affordable price • Simple installation • Reduced maintenance • Ideal for daily use | • Speed limited by vehicle converter • Slower charging | Home, office, apartment car parks |
| DC Station | • Very fast charging • Independent of vehicle converter • Stable power | • Very high cost • Complex installation • Costly maintenance | Service stations, motorway rest areas, commercial fleets |
Which charging station to choose according to your needs?
For Residential Use
For most residential users, an AC station is largely sufficient. It allows your vehicle to be fully charged overnight and represents a reasonable investment with an excellent return on investment.
For Commercial Use
Businesses can opt for AC stations in their employee car parks, offering a practical and economical charging solution. For service stations or rest areas, DC stations are more appropriate to serve a large number of customers quickly.
AMP IT Tip
Our team of experts supports you in choosing the solution best suited to your needs. We favor Easee and Zaptec AC stations for their excellent value for money and their recognized reliability on the Swiss market.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between an AC and DC charging station depends on your specific charging needs, your budget, and the technology of your electric vehicle. AC stations offer an economical and efficient solution, while DC stations can offer faster charging at a higher cost.
For any further questions or to obtain more information about our charging stations, please do not hesitate to contact us.