As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road increases, the demand for charging stations is also growing rapidly. Charging stations are classified into two major categories based on the power supply method: AC charging stations and DC charging stations. In addition, different interface standards have resulted in several types of charging stations in use, such as GB/T, CCS1, CCS2, and CHAdeMO. Understanding the different classifications of charging stations is essential in identifying the appropriate charging solution for various application scenarios.
Classification Based on Power Supply Method
Charging stations can be divided into two main categories based on the power supply method: AC charging stations and DC charging stations.
- AC Charging Stations
AC charging stations convert the alternating current (AC) from the electrical grid into the suitable AC power for charging electric vehicles (EVs). This charging method is suitable for home use, small-scale commercial charging stations, and small parking lots. In these locations, charging time is usually longer, and the charging power is not particularly high.
2. DC Charging Stations
DC charging stations directly provide direct current (DC) from the electrical grid to charge EVs. Compared to AC charging stations, DC charging stations offer faster charging speeds and higher power output. They are suitable for locations that require rapid charging, such as highway service areas, public parking lots, and urban fast-charging stations.
Classification based on interface standards
The interface standard of charging stations is also an important dimension for the classification of charging stations.
GB/T: The national standard of China for electric vehicle charging interface and communication protocol.
CCS1: The Combined Charging System Level 1, which is widely used in North America.
CCS2: The Combined Charging System Level 2, which is widely used in Europe.
CHAdeMO: A Japanese standard for DC fast charging, which is popular in Asian countries.
Application Scenarios of Charging Stations:
Highway Service Areas:
Due to the long duration of vehicles traveling on highways, fast charging is required. DC charging stations have become essential facilities in service areas.
Public Parking Lots:
DC charging stations enable quick charging for electric vehicles, making them suitable for short-term parking scenarios such as public parking lots and commercial centers.
Commercial Charging Stations:
Commercial charging stations need to meet high-power, high-efficiency, and high-reliability requirements. DC charging stations, with their fast charging capability, easy integration, and flexibility, have become one of the most common devices in commercial charging stations.
4S Shops:
4S shops, as primary locations for car sales and maintenance, need to provide charging services for displayed and test-driven electric vehicles. DC charging stations, known for their fast charging, safety, and user-friendliness, have become the main charging solution in 4S shops.
Public Transportation Hubs:
Public transportation hubs such as subway stations and bus stops require charging services for electric buses and taxis. DC charging stations have become essential equipment in these public transportation locations.
Gas Station Charging Stations:
These are charging stations that are located at traditional gas stations. They are becoming more common as gas stations look for ways to diversify their business and meet the growing demand for EV charging.
These diverse application scenarios highlight the importance of DC charging stations in meeting the charging needs of electric vehicles across various settings, ensuring convenient and reliable charging infrastructure for a sustainable transportation future.