Electric Vehicle Charger
Comparison Criteria - AC Wallbox
| Function | Description | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| DC Leakage Protection | Provides protection for faults with DC ≥ 6 mA while using a Type A RCD. Type A RCD's may not trip if the DC component is greater than 6mA | If no DC protection is included in the Charger, a type B RCD must be used (according to AS3000 Appendix P). This can cost $500+ compared to a type A RCD which is only around $50 |
| 4G Modem | An onboard modem allows the charger to connect to the internet using a SIM card. This is important as the internet connection is not dependent on WiFi passwords or other local settings. Additionally, most operators will use SIM cards with a VPN built in to allow remote configuration of the chargers. | External modems can cost $300+ and often require installation in an additional enclosure |
| RFID Reader | RFID card readers allow users to start/stop charging sessions with a key card. These are often offered by charge point operators and can make charging much more convenient. If the charger is in a location with limited phone signal, this may be the most reliable authentication method available. | It may not be possible to retrofit a RFID card reader in future. |
| Socket or Cable (Untethered or Tethered) | AC Wallbox chargers often have the option for tethered or untethered (cable or socket) variants. Tethered is great for convenience but does require users to look after the cables to avoid damage. Socket versions are lower maintenance and are often used in public areas. | A socket variant will require a cable. These vary from $250-400 depending on the length, rating and brand. |
| Energy Meter | If you want to measure the energy supplied by a charging station, an internal meter is required. Not all manufacturers include meters as they aren't necessary for home use if the user isn't tracking their usage. A meter is required for all charging stations that will be monetised. In Australia, there is no standard for metrology in EV Charging stations, but this is likely to change in the future. | Adding a meter in series with the charger is possible and can cost upwards of $300. It may not be possible to retrofit a meter and will depend on the charger installed. |
| Smart Charging | This is a feature that allows the charger to control the power available to the vehicle. This is especially important in application where a number of chargers will be installed in one location. | Chargers without smart charging will not be able to be load managed and will require replacing if a load management system is to be used. |
| Display | Some customers like to see what's happening with the charger during a charging session. An LCD screen is an option provided by many suppliers. However, these should be orientated so that they are not exposed to direct sunlight. | LCD Screens need to be selected as part of the charger model and cannot be retrofitted later. |
| ISO 15118 (Plug and Charge and V2G) | Vehicle to grid communication interface is a proposed international standard defining a vehicle to grid (V2G) communication interface for bi-directional charging/discharging of electric vehicles.[1] The standard provides multiple use cases like secure communication, smart charging and the Plug & Charge feature used by some electric vehicle networks | This function may not be retrofittable to legacy chargers. It's worthwhile to consider future proofing your installation by selecting an ISO15118 ready charger) |