Understanding and Choosing Electric Car Charging Products
Electric vehicle (EV) charging products are essential for keeping your EV car powered and ready to go. Whether you're new to EVs or looking to upgrade your charging setup, this guide breaks down the key types of charging products—AC chargers, AC charging cables, and AC portable chargers that are available from Jaycar. Learn everything you need to know about EV chargers below, including what they are, how you should use them and how to pick the best ones for your situation.
AC Fixed EV Chargers
AC Fixed chargers, often called wall chargers or EV charging stations, are the primary way to charge your electric vehicle at locations where high-voltage electricity is available (240v AC - 400v AC). They provide a reliable, faster, and safer charging option compared to plugging into a standard wall outlet, solving the problem of slow or inconsistent charging. Installing an AC fixed charger means your EV is ready when you need it, with less wait time and more convenience. You can buy these in stores, but they do need to be installed by electricians.
What they are / How they work
A fixed AC fixed charger is a device that delivers alternating current (AC) power to your EV’s onboard charger, which converts it to direct current (DC) to charge the battery. Think of it like a high-powered, dedicated outlet just for your car. An electrician installs and connects the charger into a power source (like your workplace’s electrical system), you just connect it to your EV with a cable, and it safely delivers electricity.
Fixed AC chargers (Level 2) typically deliver 7-11 kW, charging most EVs in 4-8 hours, compared to 20+ hours with a standard 10Amp power point (Level 1).
Buying Tips / Use-Case Scenarios
- What to Look For:
Power Output: Choose a charger with 7-11 kW for faster home charging. Check your EV’s max charging rate to avoid overbuying.
Smart Features: Look for chargers that let you adjust the power output to suit your needs, authenticate with RFID fobs, or schedule charging via timers.
AC Charging Cables
AC charging cables connect your EV to a fast charger in public locations like shopping centres, acting as the “bridge” that delivers power. A good cable ensures safe, efficient charging and coiled cables can make your setup more convenient and easy to store.
What they are / How they work
An AC charging cable is a heavy-duty cord with specific connectors that link your EV to a charging station. One end plugs into the charger, and the other fits your car’s charging port. All EVs in Australia have standardized on Type-2 plugs some years ago, which are the only kind Jaycar sells.
Buying Tips / Use-Case Scenarios
What to Look For:
Connector Type: Type2 – suits all EVs except older Tesla S, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (type1) and Nissan Leaf EVs (Chademo).
Length: 5m cables are ideal for home use
Durability: Look for weather-resistant cables (IP65) with sturdy connectors for outdoor use.
Portability: Coiled, flexible cables with carry cases are easier to store or travel with.
High Amperage Support: 32A three-phase cables cover the highest power chargers available in public locations.
Who It’s Best For:
EV owners using public charging stations frequently.
Drivers who want a backup cable for travel or emergencies.
AC Portable EV Chargers
Portable EV chargers (also known as “Granny” chargers) plug into standard power sockets to charge your EV, offering a flexible solution when a dedicated AC charger isn’t available. They’re perfect for emergencies, travel, or homes without a Level 2 charger, solving the problem of being stuck without a charging option.
What they are / How they work
A Portable EV charger, often called a Level 1 charger, is a compact device that plugs into a standard 240V household outlet and connects to your EV’s charging port. It delivers a low power output (1.4-1.9 kW), so charging is slower—think 20-30 hours for a full charge on a mid-sized EV battery. It’s like using a trickle charger for your phone, gradually topping up the battery. The better chargers have a variety of different plugs to suit higher-power sockets found in caravan parks.
For example, if you’re visiting a friend’s house with no EV charger, you can plug this into their wall socket to add a hundred or more kilometers of range overnight. Some EVs come with one as a standard accessory, so check your boot to see if one is there!
Buying Tips / Use-Case Scenarios
What to Look For:
Amperage: 15A or 32A models offer faster charging than 10A.
Cable Length: 5m gives flexibility for reaching outlets.
Safety Features: Look for overload, overcurrent, overheat, and short-circuit protection.
Portability: Compact models with cases are easier to carry in your boot.
Adjustable Amperage: Some models let you switch between 8A, 10A, 15A or 32A to match outlet capacity.
Mistakes to Avoid:
Don’t use an extension cord unless it’s EV-rated; regular ones can overheat.
Avoid plugging into old or faulty outlets—check the circuit’s condition first.
Shop EV charging equipment at Jaycar
EV Charging Equipment is available at various retail locations, but for a comprehensive selection tailored to Australian drivers, consider browsing Jaycar's extensive range. Our stores stock various models suited for fast, slow, and fixed charging of EVs. Each product page provides detailed specifications and customer reviews to help you make an informed choice. For convenience, visit our EV Charging section to compare features and prices of different options. By choosing Jaycar, you benefit from expert advice and quality products designed in Australia that meet rigorous safety standards.
EV charging equipment FAQs
Can someone unplug my charger or cable from my car?
Most EVs, like Tesla and BYD, lock the cable to the car and only allow it to unplug when you command it. Check your EV for how to do this.
Can I plug a 15Amp charger into a 10Amp socket?
Whilst there are adapters to allow this, the socket will still only be able to deliver 10Amps, and the charger may overload it.