If an ordinary car has to be refueled with gasoline or diesel fuel, then EV vehicles require charging the battery with electricity.

The essence of any charger is to convert one type of electricity into another—the one that suits the electric car being charged.

In 2013, the European Commission for the Development of Eco-friendly Transport adopted a new connector standard for electric cars: Type 2, or Mennekes (after the name of the developer company). This connector is still considered the most common in Europe. In the single-phase version, the maximum power is the same as that of the Type 1—7.4 kW. However, in the three-phase version (380 V), home stations can generate up to 22 kW, and specialized charging units can generate up to 43.5 kW.

Selection criteria

Now that electric cars are becoming more popular, there are more and more chargers. On the one hand, this is a huge plus, because there is a choice. But, on the other hand, it is difficult to understand how to choose the best level 2  charger. The choice should be based on several main aspects:

• First of all, you should pay attention to the length of the cable. The correct cable length should allow you to easily and quickly connect the electric vehicle to the network. If the length is insufficient, the cable will soon be damaged due to the constant pressure on it.
• Buying a charger with a certificate of quality and safety will simplify life. In addition, some chargers have been tested for energy efficiency, which allows you to be sure that you use energy efficiently.
• It is important to choose chargers with the possibility of outdoor use if conditions do not allow charging an electric vehicle indoors. It is better to pay attention to models that can be used both outdoors and indoors.
• Before buying a charger, it would be useful to learn more about the manufacturer. Reliable manufacturers with a good reputation are more trustworthy. They will not risk their good name, so their product fully complies with modern standards of quality and reliability.
• In addition, you should pay attention to additional functions, for example, intellectual capabilities. Such functions are designed to simplify the life of the owner and provide assistance. Some features, for example, allow you to specify a charging schedule in the settings so that you never forget to charge an electric car.Real-time charging monitoring will always let you know how much charge is left and when it's time to recharge the electric car. Intelligent functions help you fully manage the process. Many manufacturers are ready to offer an energy distribution function or RFID authentication. In addition, there may be a function in charging that helps to optimally control the load during use. Smart solutions for your peace of mind and convenience.

Choosing a Level 2 charger is a responsible decision. If you make the right choice, you will be able to avoid problems and difficulties in the future.