Is Type 2 a fast charger?

Type 2 chargers, also known as Mennekes connectors, are widely used for electric vehicle (EV) charging. They offer a range of charging speeds, but can they be considered fast chargers? Let's dive into the technical aspects to understand better.

Understanding Type 2 charger capabilities

Type 2 chargers are primarily classified into two categories - single-phase and three-phase chargers. Single-phase chargers typically operate at 230V AC voltage, while three-phase chargers can provide higher power output at 400V AC voltage.

In terms of charging speed, a single-phase charger usually provides a power output of up to 7.4 kW, which translates to an approximate charging time of 8-12 hours for an average EV battery. While this is not considered a fast charging option, it is suitable for overnight charging.

On the other hand, three-phase Type 2 chargers can deliver power outputs ranging from 11 kW to 22 kW or even higher. With these chargers, charging times can be significantly reduced to around 3-6 hours, depending on the EV battery capacity. This makes three-phase Type 2 chargers a viable fast charging solution, especially for those who want quicker turnaround times.

Factors impacting Type 2 charging speed

Several factors affect the actual charging speed achieved with a Type 2 charger:

1. EV Battery Capacity: The larger the battery capacity, the longer it generally takes to charge, irrespective of the charging speed provided by the charger.

2. Internal Charging Capacity: Each EV model has a specific internal charging capacity, which determines how quickly it can accept the energy delivered by the charger. A higher internal charging capacity allows for faster charging speeds.

3. State of Charge (SoC): The speed at which an EV charges decreases as it reaches a higher SoC. Charging may start off faster but slows down as the battery fills up.

4. Grid Power Supply: The availability and stability of power supply can impact charging speeds. In some cases, overloaded grid infrastructure or inadequate voltage levels may limit the charger's output power.

Type 2 chargers vs. dedicated fast chargers

Although three-phase Type 2 chargers can provide relatively fast charging speeds, they are not as fast as dedicated fast chargers, also known as DC fast chargers or level 3 chargers. DC fast chargers use direct current (DC) instead of alternating current (AC) and can offer significantly higher power outputs, ranging from 50 kW to over 350 kW. With DC fast chargers, charging times can be reduced to less than an hour, making them ideal for long trips or quick top-ups during the day.

In conclusion, while Type 2 chargers, especially the three-phase variants, can offer faster charging compared to single-phase chargers, they are not considered true fast chargers like their DC counterparts. The charging speed provided by a Type 2 charger depends on various factors, including the charger's power output, EV battery capacity, internal charging capacity, state of charge, and grid power supply. It is essential for EV owners to consider their specific requirements and charging needs before opting for a Type 2 charger or a dedicated fast charger.