What is a charging pile?
Charging pile, also known as an EV charging point or electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), is an energy replenishing device that provides electric vehicles with electricity. Its function is similar to the gas dispenser in a gas station. It can be fixed on the ground or wall and installed in public buildings (charging stations, shopping malls, public parking lots, etc.) and residents. In the community parking lot, various types of electric vehicles can be charged according to the adjusted voltage and current.
What is the difference between an electric vehicle charging pile and a charging station?
A charging pile is a single charging unit for one vehicle, but a charging station consists of multiple charging units to cater to multiple vehicles. Charging stations typically have more complex infrastructure, including energy management, monitoring systems, and additional amenities. In addition, the charging station can charge an electric vehicle up to 80% capacity in approximately 30 minutes.
Types of Charging Piles
By charging type
AC charging pile:
- Often called slow charging pile, charging time is longer (usually takes 6-10 hours).
- Suitable for home and public parking lots, with low power, usually connected to 220V power supply.
- Suitable for small passenger electric vehicles.
DC charging pile:
- Called fast charging pile, charging time is short (usually 30 minutes to 2 hours).
- Suitable for electric buses, taxis and other vehicles that need fast charging.
- The charging power is large, the installation requirements are high, and a special high-load transformer is usually required.
By service object
Public charging pile:
- Established in public places, such as parking lots, for all electric car owners.
- DC charging piles, charging speed is fast.
Dedicated charging pile:
- Usually installed inside an enterprise or unit, for internal use only.
- Mostly slow charging piles.
Private charging pile:
- Charging piles installed by individuals, usually located in private homes, for personal vehicles.
By installation location
- Indoor charging pile: Installed indoors, with relatively low protection level and low cost.
- Outdoor charging pile:Designed for outdoor environment, with high waterproof and dustproof level, able to withstand bad weather.
According to the number of charging ports
Single pile single gun: Each charging pile is equipped with one charging port.
Single pile multiple guns: Allows charging of multiple electric vehicles at the same time, usually used in large parking lots.
