EV Charging Terminology

Simultaneous charging means more than one vehicle can charge at the same time from a multi-outlet charger or grouped charger system. It is normally assessed against site capacity, maximum demand, charger grouping and the behaviour expected when electrical demand changes.

Single-phase charging uses a single-phase AC supply, commonly found in many UK domestic and small commercial installations. It is normally assessed alongside phase availability, circuit capacity, protective devices, cable sizing and DNO/site constraints.

Standard or slow charging describes lower-power charging, typically associated with domestic or long-dwell AC charging. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.

Standard Plus or fast charging describes higher-power AC charging, often around 7 kW to 22 kW depending on supply and charger capability. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.

Three-phase charging uses a three-phase AC supply and can support higher AC charging rates where the vehicle and charger are compatible. It is normally assessed alongside phase availability, circuit capacity, protective devices, cable sizing and DNO/site constraints.

Ultra-rapid charging describes very high-power DC charging designed for short dwell times and high energy transfer. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.