Super Guide: How to Choose EV Charging Station?

After purchasing an electric vehicle, besides range, the charging experience is a key factor in happiness. A suitable EV Charging Station can not only let you say goodbye to mileage anxiety, but also provide peace of mind and efficiency every time you charge. With a wide range of chargers on the market, how to choose the best EV Charging Station for you, this guide will break it all down for you.

Figure out the EV Charging Station’s usage scenarios

1.Daily commute is the main focus, with a fixed parking space/garage

2.Limited charging conditions (e.g., apartments, older neighborhoods) or the need for flexible replenishment.

3.Frequently run long distances and need a quick top-up?

Core parameters and elements:

1.Charging power and speed:
• The higher the power, the faster the charging.
◦ 3.5kWportable ev charger: about 20-30 km/h.
◦ 7kw home charger: approx. 40-50 km/h.
◦ 11kW EV Charging Station: approx. 60-70 km/h.
◦ 22kW EV Charging Station: approx. 120-140 km/h (vehicle support required).
• Matching Vehicle: Check the maximum AC charging power of your vehicle’s On-Board Charger (OBC). Purchasing an EV Charging Station that exceeds the vehicle’s maximum will not increase the speed (e.g. if the vehicle’s OBC is a maximum of 7kW, a 22kW stake will only charge at 7kW).
• Matching Meter: To install a wall mounted EV Charging Station, you need to apply for a special meter (usually 220V single phase or 380V three phase). 7kW generally requires a 220V/32A meter; 11kW/22kW requires a 380V three-phase meter and the appropriate wiring support.

2.Charging interface type:
• National standard interface: mandatory standard in mainland China.
◦ AC port: 7 holes (slow charging port).
◦ DC connector: 9 holes (fast charging port) (for public stake).
• Tesla interface: Tesla-specific (North American standard). When choosing a third-party charger, be sure to check that it is a national standard 7-hole AC port.
• Key: Make sure the EV Charging Station’s charging lance matches your vehicle’s charging port exactly!

3.Safety certification and protection level:
• Mandatory certification: China Compulsory Certification (CCC certification). Products without CCC certification have serious safety risks, do not buy!
• Protection level:
◦ IP Rating: Dust and waterproof capability (e.g. IP65: completely dustproof and resistant to low-pressure water spray). ◦ IP rating: Protection against dust and water (e.g. IP65: fully dustproof, protected against low pressure water spray).
◦ IK rating: Impact resistance of the housing (e.g. IK08/IK10). IK10 recommended for outdoor installation.

4.Cable length:
• Measure the distance from the parking space to where you plan to install the charging post, and allow for a 1-2 meter margin. Common length is 5 meters, optional 7 meters or even longer (too long may increase wear and tear and cost).

5.Smart features (non-essential but useful):
• Networking/APP control: Remote start/stop, schedule charging (save money by utilizing valley power), check charging status/history, receive notifications, firmware upgrade.
• Swipe/NFC/Bluetooth activation: Increase security and prevent others from stealing.
• Automatic Power Adjustment/Sharing: Some charging posts can automatically limit power or intelligently distribute power among multiple posts to avoid overloading the total power of the household.

Product Recommendation: MRCARTOOL S311–Home EV Charging Station

• APP Control: adjustable charging time, current, switch, status
• Screen Display Of Charging Status: real-time display of charging status.
• Dual Waterproof System: charging head has IP55 waterproof grade, charging post has IP65 waterproof grade.
• Bluetooth Control: Bluetooth can be used to realize remote control of the charging post.
• Charging Protection: eight charging protection functions to ensure safety.
• Reservation Charging mode: avoid peak charging, reduce charging cost.
• Adjustable Current Status: applicable to many brands of car models.
• Low Standby Power Consumption: standby power consumption less than 2W, energy saving
• Fast Charging: full charge in just 7 hours on average

Choosing the right EV Charging Station is a key step in enhancing your driving experience. With a clear understanding of your needs, a firm grasp of the core elements of power, safety and compatibility, and a combination of brand service and budget, you’re sure to find the “best partner” that allows you to say goodbye to mileage anxiety and enjoy electric mobility with peace of mind.