In alternating current, only a few 43 kW charging stations allow “fast” charging. However, they are gradually being replaced by 22 kW accelerated charging stations or by fast DC charging stations.
What are the AC charging solutions for drivers who own an electric vehicle that does not have a combo outlet? What alternative for owners of a Renault Zoé with a Continental engine? Qovoltis answers.
Reminder: what are the differences between alternating and direct current?
Both alternating current and direct current make it possible to charge an electric vehicle. However, when it comes to charging, they have some differences. Explanations.
- Direct current (DC) charging
Direct current (DC) terminals allow you to take advantage of ultra-fast charging by directly powering the battery, which also works with direct current. Currently, the most powerful DC charging stations can charge up to 400 kW.
- Alternating current (AC) charging
Alternating current is that which circulates in the electrical network. However, the battery of an electric vehicle operates on direct current (DC). When recharging in AC (direct current), the vehicle charger will convert the alternating current into direct current. If there are fast charging stations with alternating current up to 43 kW, the majority of them offer charging power up to 22 kW.
To benefit from this charging power, the vehicle must itself be equipped with an internal charger of the same power. Some vehicles are limited to 7 kW
or 11 kW in alternating current.
Today, most electric vehicles accept both types of charges; however, there are still a few models that only accept AC charging, not to mention the numerous used vehicles in this case.
> To read also: DC current or AC current: which one should you choose for your electric vehicle?
Renault Zoé Q90: fast charging only with alternating current
For several years, the Renault Zoé was the best-selling car in France. The second generation of the Renault Zoé — equipped with the Continental Q90 engine — allows fast charging using 43 kW alternating current. This car model is a unique case: in alternating current, the tolerated power on the car side generally varies from 3 to 22 kW. Beyond that, fast charging is usually done using direct current.
In France, the appearance of this type of vehicle was accompanied by the deployment of around 200 AC charging stations up to 43 kW. Today, after the closure of the rapid alternating current charging stations on the Izivia network, there are only ten in service across France. Most AC charging stations offer accelerated charging of up to 22 kW.
These Renault Zoé are not compatible with charging in Combo CCS, the European standard for the rapid charging of electric vehicles using direct current. To benefit from accelerated charging, the best solution is therefore to connect to a 22 kW alternating current terminal. It takes about 2 hours to fully charge a 40 kWh battery.
Good to know : the on-board charger of the new Renault Zoé is still compatible with 22 kW AC charging. An option priced at 1,000 euros allows compatibility with fast charging in Combo CSS of up to 50 kW.
Also to read: CCS Combo socket: definition and advantages
How can I benefit from fast charging using alternating current?
To quickly charge their vehicle, the majority of drivers turn to a public DC charging station. However, the use of this type of terminal must remain occasional. The danger? To wear out the battery prematurely.
To optimize the Charging time for your electric vehicle, you can benefit from a fast charge In alternating current. Our Qovoltis charging stations offer charging power of up to:
— 22 kW on a three-phase electrical network;
— 7.4 kW on a single-phase electrical network.
Our expertise in the sector allows us to support individuals in the installation of smart charging stations in single-family homes and condominiums. During 2023, our Qobox mini will be offered at a competitive price. Equipped with a compact square format, it includes numerous innovative functions. Performance (power up to 22 kW), safety, electricity at the best price, real-time charging monitoring, mobile application and more... Keep an eye out and follow our news !
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