Electric Vehicle, Car Chargers (EV Chargers) - Comprehensive FAQ
We know that the world of Electric Car Chargers can be daunting, with lots of different information out there to read and digest. Regardless of whether you’re fitting an Electric Vehicle Charger in a residential or commercial setting, you’ll need to know things like which type of EV Charger is best for your installation, whether or not to choose a tethered or untethered Charger, how much power an EV Charger draws, the type of cabling needed, what government grants you can get, and much more.
Our customers often need advice and guidance on their Electric Car Charger installation, so we explore the most frequently asked questions below; if you still have any questions after reading through this page, please don't hesitate to contact us on 01424 220384 where our friendly experts will be happy to help you.
Jump to:
Are EV Chargers Standardised? | What Are EV Connector Types? | How Much Does An EV Charger Cost? | Tethered vs Untethered EV Chargers | Which Home EV Charger Is Best? | What Is A Smart EV Charger? | What Is A Fast EV Charger? | Do I Need Permission To Install An EV Charger? | What Is The OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant? | What Is The WCS Scheme? | What Is The New UK EV Grant? | Where Are The EV Charging Stations Near Me?
Are Electric Car Chargers Standardised, What Types are Available?
No, EV chargers are not universal. They differ in connector types, power ratings, and compatibility. In the UK and Europe, three main AC connector types exist under the IEC 62196 standard: Type 1, Type 2 and the now largely outdated Type 3.
What is the Difference between Type 1 Type 2 and Type 3 EV Chargers?
With so much to learn about EV Charger Types, we have created a table below to make it easier to understand the differences between each option.
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CONNECTOR TYPE |
POWER RATINGS |
FEATURES |
IMAGE |
|
Type 1 EV Charger (SAEJ1772/Older Type) |
Uo to 19.2kW single-phase |
|
|
|
Type 2 EV Charger (Mennekes/Most Common) |
3.7kW to 22kW (single/3-Phase), up to 43kW in public AC; DC via CCS2 variant |
|
 |
|
Type 3 EV Charger (Scame) |
Up to 24kW AC; shuttered safety design |
|
 |
Note: Public rapid and ultra-rapid charging predominantly uses DC connectors like CCS2 (Combo2) or CHAdeMO, which go beyond these AC types. If you’re unsure which connection type your vehicle uses, check the vehicle inlet or consult the manual before selecting a charger or installer.
How Much Does an Electric Car Charger Cost?
Home and workplace chargers in the UK range from £400 for basic 3.7 kW units to around £2,000–£3,500 for smart, higher-capacity 7 kW models or dual-socket setups. Public charging savings can be significant: many users save around £1,000 per year by charging at home rather than using pay-as-you-go public points.
The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) grant reduces costs by £350, covering part of unit and installation expenses. This is available per eligible vehicle. For more information, read our Guide to the OLEV EV Grant.
Here at Electrical2Go we stock a wide array of EV Chargers that all offer different benefits and rewards with varying price ranges, so you can always find the perfect EV Charger for your car!
How much does it cost to install an EV Charger?
The total cost of installing a home or workplace EV charger depends on a variety of physical, technical and regulatory factors. Here's a breakdown of what typically affects the final price:
| 1. Charger Model: | The type of charger you select has a major impact on installation costs. A basic untethered 3.7 kW unit may require minimal work, while a smart 7 kW charger with app connectivity, load balancing, and solar PV integration will be more expensive to install due to additional wiring, setup and configuration. If you opt for a three-phase 22 kW charger (for properties with suitable supply), installation complexity increases further, requiring advanced protection and often structural changes to the consumer unit. |
| 2. Electrical Upgrade Requirements: |
Your existing electrical infrastructure must be able to support the additional load from the charger. In many cases, this may require:
|
| 3. Property Type: |
The physical characteristics of your home or premises also play a role:
|
| 4. Installer Fees and Compliance: |
EV chargers must be installed by a competent and qualified electrician who is:
|
Everybody’s circumstances and installation requirements are different so we can’t put a definitive cost on this. However, if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly sales team. Although the initial setup cost of your personal EV Chargepoint is high, this will pay itself off relatively quickly. This combined with the fact that the infrastructure around the country is constantly growing there is no better time then to upgrade and treat yourself to your own Car Charger then today!
Is It Safe to Install an EV Charger at My Property?
Yes, provided installation is by an OLEV‑approved installer or qualified electrician. They assess:
- Existing electrical wiring and capacity.
- Permission needs (e.g., for listed buildings or proximity to roads).
- Proper placement of the wallbox with regard to clearances, weatherproofing, and cable reach.
- Notification to your District Network Operator (DNO), if required, especially for installations above 7 kW or unusual load profiles.
This ensures safe, compliant installation and future-proof operation.
What is the Difference Between Tethered & Untethered EV Chargers?
When choosing a home EV charger, one of the first decisions to make is between a tethered or untethered unit. The distinction lies in whether the charging cable is permanently attached to the charger or detachable.
>> What Is a Tethered EV Charger?
A tethered EV charger has a built-in charging cable that is fixed to the unit. It functions much like a traditional petrol pump; you simply uncoil the cable, plug it into your car, and begin charging. The cable is usually Type 2 (the current UK and EU standard) and comes in set lengths, often around 5 metres.
| Benefits of a Tethered Charger | Drawbacks of a Tethered Charger |
|---|---|
| Quick and Convenient: No need to fetch or unpack a separate cable, simply plug in and go. | Fixed Cable Type: You are committed to the connector the charger comes with; usually Type 2. If you switch to a vehicle with a different inlet (e.g. an older Type 1 car), you'll need an adapter or a new charger. |
| Lower Upfront Cost Overall: Since the cable is built-in, you won't need to purchase a separate charging lead. | Limited Flexibility: If the included cable is too short or too long for your setup, it can't be easily swapped. |
| Secure Connection: Cables are usually locked when charging, offering some resistance to theft. | Visual Clutter: The cable is always on show, even when not in use. While some chargers have cable tidies or holsters, this may not suit those looking for a minimal aesthetic. |
| Great for Regular Users: If you charge daily and always park in the same position, a tethered setup reduces time and hassle. |
>> What Is an Untethered EV Charger?
A untethered EV charger, sometimes called a socketed unit, has no permanently attached cable. Instead, you plug your own cable into both the charger and your vehicle every time you charge. This type of charger is generally more adaptable and discreet.
| Benefits of a Untethered Charger | Drawbacks of a Tethered Charger |
|---|---|
| Future-proof Design: If you change vehicles or have guests with a different connector type, you can simply use a different cable. | Less Convenient: You need to retrieve the cable from the boot or garage every time you charge. |
| Cleaner Look: Without a built-in cable, the charger sits neatly on the wall, making it more discreet when not in use. | Additional Cost: If a cable isn't included, you'll need to buy one separately; typically £100-£250 depending on quality and length. |
| Custom Cable Lengths: You can choose cables of different lengths to suit different parking arrangements or swap them when needed. | Lower Security: Cables are not fixed, so you'll need to disconnect and store the cable safely after each use. Some EVs allow the cable to be locked during charging, but not all. |
| More Versatile for Shared Use: Ideal for households or businesses with multiple EVs using different connectors. |
>> So Which Should You Choose: Tethered or Untethered?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision depends on your vehicle, charging habits, and plans for the future. Consider the following:
| Factor | Tethered | Untethered |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | ✔✔✔ | ✔ |
| Visual appearance | ✔ | ✔✔✔ |
| Future-proofing | ✔ | ✔✔✔ |
| Upfront cost (cable) | ✔✔✔ | ✔ |
| Flexibility (cable choice) | ✔ | ✔✔✔ |
| Suitable for multiple EVs | ✔ | ✔✔✔ |
If you value speed and simplicity and don’t expect to change your EV soon, a tethered charger offers day-to-day convenience. If you want a cleaner look or anticipate multiple EVs with differing cable needs (e.g. Type 1 and Type 2), then an untethered charger offers better long-term flexibility.
Which Home EV Charger Should You Choose?
When choosing an EV charger for home use, it’s important to understand the key differences between charger types and how they affect charging speed, installation needs, and long-term convenience. The two primary types used at home are trickle chargers and AC wallboxes. Here's what each means:
Trickle Charger
A trickle charger refers to the simplest and slowest form of electric vehicle charging. It uses a standard 230V three-pin plug, the same kind used for household appliances in the UK. These units are sometimes referred to as granny chargers because they are small, portable, and often come as a backup charging solution provided with the vehicle.
- Power Output: Around 2.3 kW
- Charging Speed: Adds approximately 8-10 miles of range per hour
- Connection: Plugs directly into a domestic wall socket
- Installation: No specialist installation required
Who Is It For?
Trickle chargers may be acceptable for users with very short daily commutes, low mileage needs, or occasional charging requirements. However, due to their low power output, they are not practical for regular use or vehicles with large battery capacities.
| Drawbacks |
|---|
|
Charging a typical EV from empty to full can take 20–30 hours depending on the battery size |
|
Prolonged use may strain domestic sockets not designed for continuous high loads |
| No smart charging features, energy tracking, or load balancing |
| Not eligible for government grants as a permanent installation |
AC Wallbox Charger
An AC wallbox is a dedicated electric vehicle charger that is professionally installed on a property wall, typically outside the home or inside a garage. It connects directly to your home’s consumer unit and provides much faster charging than a trickle charger. Wallboxes are available in a range of power outputs and may include smart features for scheduling, monitoring, and integration with solar panels or energy tariffs.
Standard Power Options:
- 3.7 kW (single-phase): Adds ~15 miles per hour of charge
- 7.4 kW (single-phase): Adds ~25-30 miles per hour of charge
- 11-22 kW (three-phase): Adds up to 90 miles per hour, but only available if your home or business has a three-phase electrical supply
Who Is It for?
AC wallboxes are ideal for most EV drivers who charge overnight or daily at home. A typical 7 kW unit can charge a 60 kWh battery EV from empty to full in about 8–10 hours, making it a reliable solution for routine use.
| Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Faster Charging compared to a domestic socket | Installation costs vary depending on property layout and electrical infrastructure |
| Smart Control via app-based scheduling, usage monitoring, and remote access | |
| Load Management to avoid overloading your household electrical system | Require professional installation and often a notification to the District Network Operator (DNO) |
| Grant Eligibility is using an OZEV-approved installer and chargepoint | |
| Safer installation and ongoing use due to direct connection to the home's electrical system | 22 kW models require a three-phase supply, which most UK homes do not have by default |
Summary: Which One Should You Choose?
Feature |
Trickle Charger |
AC Wallbox |
|---|---|---|
| Plug Type | 3-pin domestic | Hardwired or socketed (Type 2) |
| Power Output | ~2.3 kW | 3.7 kW to 22 kW |
| Installation Required | No | Yes - by qualified installer |
| Smart Features | No | Yes (in smart models) |
| Charging Time (typical EV) | 20-30 hours | 6-10 hours (7 kW) |
| Ideal For | Occasional use | Daily charging |
If you plan to charge your electric vehicle regularly, especially overnight, an AC wallbox is the most efficient, safe and future-ready option. Trickle chargers are best reserved for emergency use or very occasional top-ups where speed is not a concern.
What is a Smart EV Charger?
A smart EV charger is one that shares data between the charger, the car, and you. This is typically done via an app or web service. A smart EV charger allows you to control the charging process by doing things like:
- Scheduled charging at off-peak times.
- Load balancing and power monitoring.
- Remote control and energy use tracking via apps.
- Firmware updates for enhanced features.
- Integration with solar panels or smart home systems.
- Remote diagnostics and fault alerts.
This allows cost savings and more efficient energy use.
What is a EV Fast Charger?
Fast chargers deliver DC power at 50–350 kW and can charge a vehicle to 80% in 20–60 minutes. These are located in public areas such as motorway services; for home use they are impractical and extremely costly to install.
How fast can an EV Charger charge my car?
There are several factors that will impact the time it takes for an Electric Car to charge from an EV Charger, these include: Size of Car Battery, Max Vehicle Charging Rate and the Max Chargepoint Charging Rate. See the table below for a rough outline on charge times.
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Charger Type |
Approx. Range Added / Hour* |
|---|---|
| 3.7 kW slow | ~10 miles |
| 7 kW fast | ~25-30 miles |
| 22 kW fast (3-phase) | ~60-90 miles |
| 50 kW rapid | ~90 miles in 30 min |
| 150 kW ultra-rapid | ~200 miles in 30 min |
*Actual speed depends on EV battery capacity and maximum accept rate.
Do I Need Permission to Install an EV Charger?
Generally no planning permission is needed, but you should seek approval if:
- The charging unit is near a public highway.
- It exceeds 1.6 m in height or 0.2 m³ in volume.
- You live in a listed building.
- You rent the property; landlord permission may be needed.
Where Can I Install an Electric Vehicle Charger?
Common locations:
- Beside a driveway.
- On the external wall of a garage.
- Inside a garage (with adequate ventilation).
Ensure your parking position aligns with cable length (typically 5–10 m) and is accessible to an installer. Off‑street parking is required for the OZEV grant.
What is the OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant?
The EV Chargepoint Grant is a government-backed initiative replacing the former Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS). It offers up to £350 off the cost of purchasing and installing a smart home EV charger, covering up to 75% of the total installation cost.
This grant is available to homeowners who live in flats and renters in flats or single-use properties. Key eligibility requirements include:
- A dedicated off-street parking space
- Use of an OZEV-approved smart charger
- Installation by an OZEV-authorised installer
- Ownership, leasing, or order of an eligible electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle
What is OZEV?
Formerly known as "OLEV"; OZEV stands for the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles. It is part of the UK Government’s Department for Transport and the Department for Business and Trade. OZEV supports the transition to zero-emission transport and funds initiatives that promote the uptake and infrastructure for electric vehicles across the UK.
For commercial properties, the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) provides additional grant support. See the section below for full details.
What is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)?
The WCS is a government grant designed to help businesses, charities, and public sector organisations reduce the upfront cost of installing electric vehicle chargepoints.
- Offers £350 per socket, up to a maximum of 40 sockets or £14,000 per applicant.
- Covers up to 75% of the purchase and installation costs, including VAT.
- Requires off-street parking at the workplace.
- Installation must be completed by an OZEV-authorised installer using an OZEV-approved charger.
- The chargepoints must be for staff or fleet use, not the general public.
The WCS operates on a voucher system: applicants apply online, receive a voucher code, and pass it to an installer who claims the grant after installation.
What is the New UK Electric Car Grant?
A new UK plug-in vehicle grant scheme was launched on 16 July 2025. It provides:
- £1,500 or £3,750 off the cost of a new electric vehicle priced up to £37,000
- Grant amounts vary depending on the manufacturer’s sustainability credentials
- The scheme is expected to run through the 2028–29 financial year, with £650 million in allocated funding
Despite its promise, some confusion has been reported around vehicle eligibility and the application process. Buyers are encouraged to confirm grant availability and qualifications directly with manufacturers or dealers.
Where Can I Find EV Charging Stations Near Me?
For on‑the‑go charging in the UK, use interactive maps like
- Zap‑Map: Real-time updates on chargepoint locations, availability, speeds, and connector types across the UK.
- Auto Trader: EV-specific features including charepoint mapping and vehicle compatibility.
These tools help plan journeys, locate fast or rapid chargers, and check pricing at various charging networks.
In Conclusion
- Use Type 2 chargers in the UK unless you own an older Type 1 vehicle.
- Installation costs vary but are offset by a £350 home grant.
- Stay within grant rules: off‑street parking, approved installations, and suitable charger type.
- Consider a smart charger for savings and flexibility.
- Keep up‑to‑date with the EV grant for vehicle purchase and workplace installations.
- For help or advice; contact our expert team.
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