With the immense support of the Government, India’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is expanding across the nation. Particularly, the FAME India initiative has attracted countless consumers to explore the utility of EVs and tap opportunities to invest in AC and DC fast charging stations. Not only are the EV charging stations being set up in cities, but they are accessible near highways for efficient results. Currently, charging standards like Bharat DC 001 and CCS are optimally followed to facilitate EV owners with the best-in-class charging amenities to the consumers. Specifically, in the case of public charging infrastructure, the top service providers ensure the fast-speed chargers that are compatible with vehicles, thereby, offering the cost-saving as well as the proper EV charging solution.
On the other hand, when it comes to classifying the types of chargers used to recharge electric vehicles, there are 3 variations that users can choose from:
AC Chargers (Alternate Current)
With the help of alternating current, the vehicle’s battery gets adequate power for charging. In comparison with the DC chargers, the AC charger may prove to be a slow, yet, ideal solution for overnight charging at home, public parking stations, and offices. Since the vehicles in these areas are parked for longer duration, the charging amenities can be availed without hampering the daily routine. Among the multiple variations, the AC chargers are available in 22 kW, 7 kW, and 3.3 kW to address various EV charging requirements.
DC Chargers (Direct Current)
DC chargers offer faster charging compared to AC chargers. They directly convert AC power from the grid to DC power required by the vehicle’s battery. DC chargers are further classified into two types:
The efficiency of DC chargers is comparatively higher than AC chargers used to recharge EVs. The mechanism of these chargers includes the conversion of AC power from the grid to improve the power of DC required to charge the vehicle.
Following are the two types of DC chargers:
CCS (Combined Charging System)
As a part of CCS, the AC and DC charging facilities are combined in a single port. Generally, European and American automotive service providers rely on the CCS EV charging stations. This charging system has the potential of recharging the vehicle’s battery efficiently and its power ranges from 50 kW to 350 kW. As a result, the rapid charging facilities can be availed at public EV charging stations and around highways.
ChAdeMO
One of the fastest chargers for EVs, ChAdeMo is an innovation of Japanese companies and is primarily used by Mitsubishi and Nissan automobiles with electric mobility.
Fast AC Chargers
Mediating between the AC and DC charging infrastructure for EVs, this hybrid EV charging system ensures comparatively efficient speed. However, the efficiency of fast AC chargers is less than DC fast charging station and can be a perfect solution for quick recharge when the vehicle is parked outside the shopping mall or restaurant.
AC and DC charger for electric vehicles in Kerala
Since the governing bodies of Kerala are actively promoting electric mobility, multiple EV charging stations in Kerala have been upgraded to offer efficient charging results to consumers. In October 2023, over 300 EV charging stations were set up to address the public and private EV charging requirements of electric vehicle owners. It further implies that the AC and DC chargers are being offered to the users, but one should note that the speed offered by the AC chargers for EV may be less than DC chargers. Nevertheless, AC charging stations in Kerala are affordable and can be installed easily. Here are some of the top places where EV owners can access the charging facilities in Kerala irrespective of AC or DC charging facilities:
Hotels, malls, and public spaces
To cater to the growing need for EV charging at public spaces like hotels, malls, or any other parking stations in Kerala, the AC and DC charging facilities are being offered at a flexible pricing system.
EV forums and communities
On sharing the information about the EV charging infrastructure through online forums and communities, the insights, and details about AC & DC charging stations in Kerala can be explored. Besides, based on the experience of the other users, choosing the best AC and DC fast charging stations becomes easier.
Utilities and energy companies
The utility and energy companies have profound knowledge about the charging infrastructure and related aspects that can help EV owners in locating reliable AC and DC charging stations for their vehicles in Kerala.
Local EV distributors and EV manufacturers
The insights about the best EV charging stations that offer AC and DC charging facilities can be obtained from the EV manufacturers and dealers. With their networking, they can offer practical guidance about the best EV charging stations in Kerala
EV charging apps
To make it much simpler, EV charging apps like ChargePoint, ElectroMaps, and PlugShare make the accessibility to the real-time details of the EV charging stations in Kerala, hassle-free. Most of all, locating the EV charging stations with the AC and DC charging facilities becomes simplified with the help of these apps.
On a last note, the in-depth research about the trends, compatibility and EV charging facilities offered at the charging station in Kerala offers a practical outcome!