Many questions about charging actually come down to three things: what type of current, how much power, and for how long. Here we clarify the basics.
AC or DC – what type of charging?
AC charging (alternating current) is the most common at parking facilities, housing associations, and workplaces. The current is converted to direct current inside the car by the car's built-in charger. This makes AC charging gentler on the battery and is ideal when the car is parked for a few hours anyway. ChargeNode's facilities are primarily AC-based.
DC charging (direct current/fast charging) converts the current outside the car and feeds the battery directly. It is faster – often 50–350 kW – but puts more strain on the battery and is best suited for longer journeys along motorways. ChargeNode does not offer DC charging in its standard service.
Single-phase or three-phase?
AC charging can take place on one or three phases:
Single-phase provides a maximum of approximately 7.4 kW (at 32A). Suitable for plug-in hybrids and older electric vehicles.
Three-phase provides 11–22 kW depending on amperage. Most modern electric vehicles support 11 kW, some up to 22 kW.
It is always the car's built-in charger that sets the actual limit – not just the facility. If you drive a plug-in hybrid, you will almost always charge on a single phase, regardless of what the facility offers.
How long does charging take?
It depends on three things: the battery size, the car's charging power, and the facility's available power. As a benchmark:
Vehicle type | Battery | Power | Approximate time |
|---|---|---|---|
Plug-in hybrid | ~12 kWh | 3.7 kW (single-phase 16A) | approx. 3 hours |
Electric vehicle (small) | ~40 kWh | 7.4 kW (single-phase 32A) | approx. 5–6 hours |
Electric vehicle (large) | ~70 kWh | 11 kW (three-phase 16A) | approx. 6–7 hours |
How to charge to make the battery last longer
You affect the battery's lifespan more by how you charge than by how you drive. Some guidelines:
Normally charge to 80% for daily use. Save 100% for longer journeys.
Avoid regularly running below 10–20%.
Prefer AC charging over DC fast charging in everyday use.
Store the car at approximately 50% if it is going to be left unused for an extended period.
Avoid extreme cold and heat – park in a garage or shade when possible.
Most modern electric vehicles have a built-in battery protection system that automatically limits charging and discharging. You can rely on it, but better habits will still noticeably extend the battery's lifespan.