Electric Vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity in Australia, and a common question that many prospective EV owners will come across is...
‘Do I need 3-phase charging for my electric vehicle?’
The simple answer for most is: probably not.
How do you use your EV?
Let's start with a little scenario. Imagine you're a typical Melbournian, zipping around the city in your snazzy EV, enjoying the clean and quiet ride. You probably use it for your daily commute, grocery runs, and the occasional weekend adventure. These activities rarely push your EV's range to its limits, which is typically around 300-400km.
There are an ever-increasing number of public charging stations available at shopping centres and workplaces throughout Melbourne. Therefore a single phase charging option is usually all you need for those quick top-ups overnight at home.
So what are 3-Phase EV chargers for then?
Now, let's switch gears a bit. Picture yourself on a road trip, steering your EV towards the great Australian outback. You stop in a quaint country town for a cup of coffee while you recharge. Sounds like a dream road trip, right?
But you turn the corner, and there’s a line of electric vehicles waiting to use the public EV charger. Aargh!
Luckily, there are a few situations where 3-Phase EV chargers are preferable. 3-Phase chargers offer faster charging speeds and can often accommodate multiple vehicles at once. So they’re perfect for high-traffic public settings where you need quick turnaround.
With great power comes greater… power requirements?
3-phase chargers typically operate at a higher voltage than single-phase chargers, allowing for faster and more efficient charging. However, this means they aren’t something you can just plug into your existing power outlets at home.
The higher current also means they need a 3-phase power circuit, which is more costly to install. This is another reason why many homeowners opt for single-phase EV chargers.
When considering EV's battery needs, it's important to choose the right type of battery chargers. Additionally, DC charging stations provide an alternative for rapid charging outside the home.
Is 3-Phase EV charging right for you?
So if you’ve read this far, maybe you’re still on the fence about whether 3-Phase EV charging is right for you?
Ultimately, only you can answer that question (with expert advice from the likes of Kenner Electrics, of course)! It will depend on your individual needs, how you use your electrical-powered car and any future plans you might have.
While 3-phase car chargers can offer faster charging speed and may be beneficial for some owners, they are not necessarily a requirement for everyone. If you’re mainly doing city driving, then overnight top-ups with a single-phase EV charger will likely do the job.
But if you’re someone who frequently drives long distances such as a courier or avid day-tripper, maybe a 3-phase charger is more suitable.
Consult the Experts
Whatever your decision, it's always recommended to consult with the experts, like the friendly team at Kenner Electrics. We’ll help assess your specific charging needs and determine the most suitable charger for your EV.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to 3-phase EV chargers.
At Kenner Electrics, we have a team of experienced electricians who can provide expert advice and installation services for EV chargers. This includes 3-phase car chargers and supply upgrades if your circumstances require it.
Enjoy the ride!
