As the electric vehicle (EV) market grows, so does the need for faster and more efficient charging solutions. Among the fastest home chargers available today is the 22kW home EV charger, offering significant advantages over its more common counterparts. However, before opting for this high-powered charger, it’s essential to understand its capabilities, installation requirements, and whether it suits your particular needs.
How Fast is a 22kW EV Charger?
When it comes to speed, the 22kW EV charger is in a league of its own. Compared to the standard 7kW home charger, which is often the go-to option for many EV owners, the 22kW charger is approximately three times faster. A typical 7kW charger can provide around 30 miles of range per hour of charging, whereas a 22kW charger can offer up to 90 miles of range per hour—a significant difference.
To put this into perspective, a 22kW charger is not only three times faster than a 7kW charger but also six times faster than a 3-pin plug charger. With a 22kW home charger, it’s possible to fully charge an electric vehicle in just 3 to 4 hours, and a top-up charge can be completed in as little as 1 to 2 hours.
Despite this impressive speed, several external factors can influence charging times, such as the capacity of your car’s battery, weather conditions, and the state of charge when you begin charging. These elements may cause the charging time to vary slightly from what is stated.
Is a 22kW Home Charger Worth It?
While a 22kW charger may sound appealing due to its impressive speed, it’s not always the best option for every home. To utilize this high-speed charger, your home needs to meet specific requirements:
1. Three-Phase Power Supply
A 22kW charger operates on a three-phase electrical supply, which provides higher amperage compared to a standard single-phase supply. Not all homes are equipped with this kind of power supply, and retrofitting your home to accommodate three-phase power can be a complex and costly process.
2. Car Compatibility
In order to make full use of the 22kW charger, your EV must also support this level of charging. While many modern EVs, like the Renault Zoe, BMW i3, and certain Tesla models, can handle 22kW charging, others may not be able to take advantage of the full speed, even if they are plugged into a 22kW charger.
Cost of a 22kW Charger and Installation
Installing a 22kW charger is more expensive than installing a 7kW charger, both in terms of the charger itself and the installation process. On average, a 22kW charger might cost about 100 euros more than a 7kW charger. However, it’s important to factor in the potential additional costs for upgrading your home’s electrical infrastructure to accommodate the high power demands of a 22kW charger.
If you already have a three-phase power supply—perhaps due to heavy-duty equipment like welding machines—then a 22kW charger might be an ideal solution for your home. However, if you don’t already have this type of electrical supply, it could be more cost-effective to stick with a lower-powered charger.
Benefits of a 22kW Electric Car Charger
The advantages of having a 22kW home EV charger extend beyond speed. Here are some of the key benefits:
Faster Charging for Multiple EVs
If you have multiple electric vehicles in your household, a 22kW charger can significantly reduce the time spent waiting for your vehicles to charge. In larger households or for families with more than one EV, having a fast charger ensures everyone can charge their cars more efficiently, without long waiting periods.
Ideal for Larger Battery EVs
For EVs with larger battery capacities, a 22kW charger offers the benefit of reducing overall charging time, enabling you to get back on the road quickly.
Convenience
If you don’t mind the upfront costs, having a 22kW charger at home provides extra convenience, allowing you to charge your vehicle faster, especially when you need a quick top-up before a long drive.
What Cars Can Use a 22kW Home Charger?
A common question among potential buyers is, "Can my car use a 22kW charger?" Technically, most modern EVs can use a 22kW charger, but the speed at which they charge depends on the car’s charging capacity.
For example, the Tesla Model 3, despite being plugged into a 22kW charger, will only charge at a maximum of 11kW due to its own internal charging limitations. This means that even with a high-powered charger, the Model 3 won’t take full advantage of the 22kW charger’s speed, though it will still benefit from faster charging than a standard 7kW charger.
Some cars that are capable of handling 22kW charging speeds include:
Renault Zoe: A popular small EV that can take full advantage of 22kW charging.
BMW i3: Another EV that can charge at the full 22kW rate.
Tesla Model S and Model X: While these models are capable of faster charging, the Model 3 has a maximum charging rate of 11kW even when plugged into a 22kW charger.
Before purchasing a 22kW charger, it’s crucial to check your car’s maximum charging speed. Consult your vehicle’s manual or visit a vehicle database to find out what charging speeds are possible for your specific make and model.
7.4kW vs 22kW Home Charger: Which is Right for You?
While a 22kW charger offers impressive speed, it’s not always the most practical or necessary option for every household. Here’s a comparison between a 7.4kW home charger and a 22kW charger:
7.4kW Home Charger
Charging Speed: Charges an EV at a rate of around 40-50 km per hour.
Full Charge Time: Typically takes around 6-8 hours to fully charge an EV, depending on battery capacity.
Cost: Generally more affordable compared to 22kW chargers.
Installation: Easier and less expensive to install, as it requires only a single-phase power supply.
Suitability: Ideal for most drivers with daily commutes who do not require the super-fast charging speeds that 22kW provides.
22kW Home Charger
Charging Speed: Charges an EV at a rate of around 80-100 km per hour.
Full Charge Time: Can charge an EV in 2-3 hours, much faster than a 7.4kW charger.
Cost: More expensive, both in terms of the charger and installation.
Installation: Requires a three-phase power supply and may necessitate electrical upgrades in your home.
Suitability: Best for homes with multiple EVs or larger battery capacities and those who need faster charging times.
Conclusion: Which Charger is Right for You?
Choosing the right home EV charger depends on a variety of factors including the capacity of your EV’s battery, your home’s electrical setup, and how quickly you need your vehicle charged. A 7.4kW home charger is a great option for most households, offering a balance between charging speed and cost. However, if you already have a three-phase power supply and need to charge multiple vehicles quickly, a 22kW charger may be the best choice.
Regardless of your choice, having an EV charger installed at home provides the ultimate convenience for electric vehicle owners. Fast charging speeds and efficient energy use will ensure you spend less time waiting and more time on the road.
