Understanding electric vehicle charging stations: AC vs DC

When considering the installation of a charging station for your electric vehicle, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two main types of station: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). These differences determine not only the speed of recharging, but also the cost and technology involved.

AC charging station for electric vehicles

The electricity we use every day is alternating current (AC). However, electric vehicle batteries can only be recharged with direct current (DC). To solve this problem, all electric cars are equipped with an internal converter, called an integrated converter. This converter transforms AC electricity into DC before injecting it into the vehicle’s battery. The capacity of the built-in converter on many car models is limited to 11 kW. So, even if your AC charging station can deliver 22 kW, recharging will be limited to 11 kW due to the capacity of the car’s converter. However, as new vehicle models come onto the market, the capacity of internal converters will increase, allowing you to take full advantage of 22 kW charging.

AC charging stations are the most common way of recharging electric vehicles today. They are widely used because they are less expensive than DC charging stations and offer sufficient recharging speed for use at home or at work. AMP IT offers recharging solutions with AC charging stations for offices and apartment parking lots, meeting daily recharging needs economically and efficiently.

DC charging station for electric vehicles

Unlike AC charging stations, DC charging stations feature a converter inside the station itself. This transforms AC electricity into DC before it reaches the car. This process eliminates the need to use the vehicle’s built-in converter, enabling DC power to be supplied directly to the battery.

DC terminals are generally larger and more expensive than AC terminals, due to the additional technology required to integrate the converter into the terminal itself. However, they offer faster recharging, guaranteeing stable power independently of the vehicle’s internal converter.

AC and DC charging station prices

The price of an AC 22 kW Easee or Zaptec charging station (excluding installation and electrical work) varies from 850 to 1000 CHF (incl. VAT), depending on the model, making it an economical and efficient solution for recharging your electric vehicle at home or at work.

DC charging stations, on the other hand, although offering faster recharging, are considerably more expensive. For example, a 22kW Schneider DC terminal costs around CHF 4680 incl. VAT, i.e. almost five times as much as an AC terminal from Easee or Zaptec, which AMP IT installs for its customers.

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 charging stations offer an economical and efficient solution, while DC charging stations can offer faster charging at a higher cost.

If you have any further questions or would like more information on our charging stations, please do not hesitate to contact us.