FAQ
What is the difference between AC charging and DC charging, and how do you choose the right solution?
The main difference between AC and DC charging is their output power and process. AC EV chargers provide alternating current converted by the vehicle’s onboard charger, making charging slower and ideal for homes, offices, and hotels where cars stay longer.
DC EV chargers deliver direct current straight to the battery, enabling 10–30 minute charging, suitable for highways, fleet stations, and public fast-charging sites.
eTreego recommends DC EV chargers for quick turnaround locations and AC EV chargers for long-duration parking.
What locations are suitable for installing AC chargers?
AC EV chargers, with output power from 7kW to 22kW, use the same electrical supply as residential buildings. They are ideal for residential parking spaces, community garages, office buildings, and business parks, allowing convenient charging overnight or during work hours. Hotels and public parking lots also benefit by providing guests and visitors with easy charging for longer stays.
How long does it take to fully charge with an AC charger?
The charging time using an AC charger depends on the vehicle’s onboard charger specifications. For example, with a 7kW AC charger, it typically takes around 5-8 hours to fully charge the battery. Vehicles that support 11kW or 22kW AC charging can achieve a full charge in a shorter time, making it ideal for daily commuting needs or locations where cars are parked for extended periods.
What should you consider when installing a Level 2 AC charger?
When installing a Level 2 AC EV charger, it’s best to have a professional team assess power capacity, electrical setup, and subsidy eligibility. eTreego’s subsidiary, gochabar, provides one-stop services, including planning, installation, operation, and maintenance, helping businesses and communities build efficient EV charging solutions.
How fast is DC fast charging?
The speed of DC fast charging depends on factors such as battery state of charge, temperature, vehicle charging capability, and charger output power. Generally, charging slows down as the battery nears full capacity to protect its lifespan, so reaching 80% charge is fast, while the last 20% takes longer.
For example, a 30kW DC charger can add 150–180 km of range in about one hour, while a 350kW ultra-fast charger can provide 400–500 km in just 15 minutes, ideal for long-distance drivers needing quick top-ups. (Actual range varies by vehicle efficiency; figures shown are general averages.)
Can all electric vehicles use DC fast charging?
Most new-generation electric vehicles support DC fast charging; however, it is important to confirm your vehicle’s maximum supported charging power and connector type, such as CCS1, CCS2, or CHAdeMO, before using a DC charger.
eTreego recommends consulting our professional team to help you select the most suitable charger specifications and connector configuration for your EV charging needs.
What EV charging options are available in public locations?
Public locations usually offer AC chargers and DC fast chargers. AC chargers are ideal for longer parking durations, like in offices, malls, and hotels, providing a stable charge over several hours. DC fast chargers are better for shorter stops, such as highway service areas or urban quick charging stations, allowing drivers to rapidly recharge and continue their journey.
Site operators can combine AC and DC chargers based on user parking habits to improve convenience and maximize operational efficiency.
Do businesses and individual users need to maintain EV chargers regularly?
Yes. Regular maintenance ensures charging safety and extends charger lifespan. For businesses, it prevents downtime and includes tasks like cleaning, cable and connector inspections, and electrical testing. For home users, maintenance needs are lower, but a professional inspection every 6–12 months is recommended to keep chargers performing safely and efficiently.
How do EV charging stations ensure safety?
EV charging stations are designed for safety, efficiency, and reliability, giving users peace of mind. Most public stations include lightning protection, arc fault detection, leakage protection, and overload protection, ensuring safe operation even in severe weather.
In Taiwan, BSMI requires cybersecurity certification for network-connected chargers to protect system stability and data security. Users should also follow on-site instructions to ensure safe and smooth charging.
How should commercial EV chargers be maintained and managed?
Maintenance frequency depends on charger usage and location. Regularly inspect cables, connectors, and equipment appearance for damage, and test touchscreens, card/RFID readers, and software systems to ensure stable performance.
Using a remote monitoring system is recommended to track real-time status, receive alerts, and perform OTA updates, reducing maintenance costs. Most issues can be diagnosed and fixed remotely for efficient operation and better user experience.
What protocols does eTreego’s CSMS support for EVSE integration?
eTreego’s CSMS currently supports OCPP 1.6J, ensuring seamless integration with most chargers and stable management. Our AC chargers already support OCPP 2.0.1 for advanced smart charging features, and other devices will be gradually upgraded to enhance system compatibility and user experience.
Can other systems integrate with eTreego’s CSMS to access charging data?
Yes. eTreego’s CSMS offers an open HTTP API based on RESTful architecture, enabling easy integration with partner platforms. If the EVSE is managed by eTreego’s CSMS, partners can use the API to access charging status data or remotely control charging sessions, allowing them to efficiently develop their EV charging services and applications.