Charging explained
AC vs DC, connectors, speeds, and what actually happens at the plug.
You'll learn
- Explain charging explained in plain language
- Recognise the key vocabulary
- Apply the idea to a real vehicle
Overview
There are only two kinds of charging: slow AC through the car's on-board charger, and fast DC straight into the pack.
In depth
From grid to pack
| Mode | Typical power | 0→80% on a 60 kWh pack |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic socket | 2.3 kW | ~20 hours |
| Home wallbox | 7.4 kW | ~6.5 hours |
| Three-phase AC | 11–22 kW | 2–4 hours |
| DC rapid | 50 kW | ~50 minutes |
| DC ultra-rapid | 150–350 kW | 18–25 minutes |
What happens during a rapid charge
1
Grid
2
Charger
3
OBC / DC
4
Battery
Key takeaways
Remember this
- Batteries only take DC — AC charging converts on board.
- Charging speed falls as the pack fills.
- Home charging is slow but covers most needs overnight.
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