AC vs DC Charging: What are the Differences?

Electricity is the backbone of all electric vehicles. However, not all electricity is of the same quality. There are two main types of electrical current: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). In this blog post, we will explore the differences between AC and DC charging and how they impact the charging process of electric vehicles. But before we delve into the details, let’s clarify something first. Alternating current is what comes from the power grid (i.e., your household outlet). Direct current is the energy stored in your electric car battery

EV charging: the difference between AC and DC

 DC power

 DC (direct current) power is a type of electrical power that flows in one direction. Unlike AC power, which changes direction from time to time, DC power flows in a constant direction. It’s often used in devices that require a constant, steady power source, such as computers, televisions, and smartphones. DC power is generated by devices such as EV batteries and solar panels, which produce a constant flow of electrical current. Unlike AC power, which can be easily transformed to different voltages using transformers, DC power requires a more complex conversion process to change its voltage.

AC power

AC (alternating current) power is a type of electrical power that changes direction every now and then. The direction of AC voltage and current changes periodically, typically at a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz. The direction of the electric current and voltage reverses at regular intervals, which is why it’s called alternating current. The AC electricity flows through the power lines and into your home, where it is accessible through the power outlets.

AC and DC charging pros and cons

 AC charging pros:

1. Accessibility. AC charging is accessible to most people because it can be done using a standard electrical outlet. This means that EV drivers can charge at home, work, or public places without specialized equipment or infrastructure.
2. Safety. AC charging is generally considered safer than other charging methods because it delivers power in a sine waveform, which is less likely to cause electrical shock than other waveforms.

1. Affordability. AC charging is less expensive than other charging methods because it does not require specialized equipment or infrastructure. This makes it a more cost-effective option for most people.

AC charging cons:

1. Slow charging times. AC chargers have limited charging power and are slower than DC stations, which can be a disadvantage for EVs that require fast charging on the road, such as those used for long-distance travel. Charging times for AC charging can range from a few hours up to days, depending on the battery’s capacity.

1. Energy efficiency. AC chargers are not as energy-efficient as ultra-fast charging stations because they require a transformer to convert the voltage. This conversion process results in some energy loss, which can be a disadvantage for those who are concerned about energy efficiency

Is AC or DC better for charging?

This will depend on your charging needs. If you drive short distances on a daily basis, then regular top-ups using an AC charger should be enough. But if you’re always on the road and are driving long distances, DC charging is the better option, as you can fully charge your EV in less than an hour. Do note that frequent rapid charging could cause battery degradation as the high power produces too much heat.

Do EVs run on AC or DC?

Electric vehicles run on direct current. The battery in an EV stores electrical energy in a DC format, and the electric motor that powers the vehicle runs on DC power as well. For your EV charging needs, check out Lectron’s collection of EV chargers, adapters, and more for Tesla and J1772 EVs.