Electric car charging standards in Europe

Nowadays, more and more people decide to have an electric or hybrid vehicle. It is a future-proof solution that will one day certainly replace gas or petrol vehicles completely. However, nowadays, one of the most important questions when you have an electric or hybrid car is how to charge it. Especially in Poland, there are still few stations where this type of vehicle can be easily charged. Fortunately, there are special chargers on the market that make charging easier, which means the owner of such a car will not have to worry about any surprises while driving.

Car charging standards – types of connectors

The details of the car charging process are described in ICE 61851 and ICE 62196 norms. An electric or hybrid car can be charged with either direct or alternating current. When charging the car with direct current, you can do it using the Type 1 (DC) or Type 2 (DC) connector, while charging the car with alternating current, you will need either a Type 1 (AC) or Type 2 (AC) connector. This second version of the AC charging connector is widespread throughout Europe and we have it in our store’s offer too.

Which charger should you choose for your car?

A suitable charger for an electric or hybrid car should have a modern charging system, and its construction should be light and durable. Models such as the GC EV charger also have an LCD display, thanks to which it is possible to observe all the necessary data, such as charged capacity, current power level, session time and operating temperature.

A good charger also has a sufficiently long cable with which you can comfortably reach the charging station from any distance. An average charger like the Wallbox has a 6.5 meter cable, although any length within 5-7 meters range will do.

Another issue is the ability to charge from a regular socket, a good charger has a 230V socket. Of course, in addition to the socket, another important factor is the connector type. The GC EV PowerBox, or cheaper models such as GC EV Type 2 have a Type 2 connector, which is a European standard for many hybrid and electronic car models.

Of course, a good charger also has a sturdy, ergonomic handle, and is resistant to all kinds of damage – including falling and pressure of up to two tons! In addition, many solid plugs can be used for up to ten thousand connections and are protected against splashing or fine gravel falling into it, which could end tragically.

Why is it worth investing in a reliable car charger?

There are many reasons why you should invest in a reliable charger for a hybrid or electric car. One of the major considerations is certainly the charging speed. A good charger made well and in accordance with European standards is able to significantly shorten the charging time – even by a few or a dozen or so hours, depending on the car model connected to it.

Another reason why it is a good idea to invest in a sturdy charger is safety. Good chargers have a casing made of ABS plastic and are extremely tight, so you can freely use them outdoors.

Another big advantage is the use of advanced electronics, which monitors all parameters during charging and a wide range of permissible operating temperatures. A good charger for electric and hybrid cars should not overheat at all!

Hybrid and electric car – the future of communication!

Hybrid and electric cars have many advantages. Perhaps the most well known of them is eco-friendliness. These types of vehicles do not emit exhaust fumes and are not powered by non-renewable energy sources such as oil. Another huge advantage (although it’s up to personal preference) is almost completely silent operation – without the deafening roar of the engine.

Yet another great advantage of electric and hybrid cars is savings – one kilometre can be covered at a much lower cost than if you were driving in a car with an internal combustion engine. In addition, many experts claim that electric motors are much more efficient than internal combustion engines, because they can convert 99% of the energy supplied to them into mechanical energy!

You also must not forget that hybrid and electric cars are becoming increasingly more popular not only in other countries in Europe but also in Poland. And although Poland is not yet in such good situation as, for example, Germany, having your own Green Cell cable with you makes it much easier to find a station with a charging space without its own cable!