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Types of EV Chargers: A Complete Overview

  1. Electric and Hybrid CUPRA Car Models and Charging Options

Types of EV Chargers

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has brought about a growing need to understand the various types of EV chargers available.

Whether you’re new to electric car charging or an experienced EV driver, knowing the differences in charging connector types, speeds and applications is key to making the most of your EV. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of electric car charging, from home setups to rapid and ultra-rapid chargers.

Understanding EV Charging

Charging an EV is different from refueling a traditional petrol and diesel car. It involves replenishing the battery using electricity, which can come from your home or from a public charging station. Let’s break it down:

  • Charging Levels: Chargers are rated by their power output, which means charging times vary.
  • Connector Types and Compatibility: Different EVs use specific connectors, making it important to match your car charging cables with a socket that fits the car.
  • Charging Speeds: The time it takes to recharge your electric car depends on the charger type and your EV’s specifications.


Charging your CUPRA is designed to suit your needs wherever you go. Ultra-rapid chargers at motorway service stations allow you to recharge quickly when you need a quick top up. You can also charge CUPRA cars overnight whenever you like.

Main Types of EV Chargers

Slow Chargers (3–6 kW)

Slow chargers are ideal for home use, particularly for overnight charging. In
In the UK for example, these type of chargers can connect to standard three-pin plug or basic wallbox units.

  • Best For: Drivers with predictable daily routines.
  • Charging Time: 12–24 hours for a full charge.
  • Connector Types: Type 2 connectors are the most common type, offering reliable performance for models that use slower charging rates.
     

Fast Chargers (7–22 kW)

Fast chargers are most commonly found in public spaces and some upgraded home setups. They offer a quicker alternative to slow chargers, ideal for regular top-ups.

  • Best For: Public charging at shopping centres or offices with three-phase power supply. They can also be installed at home using the CUPRA Charger 2, which supports charging power of up to 22 kW. This provides significantly faster charging speeds compared to standard three-pin sockets.
  • Charging Time: 4–6 hours for a 7 kW charger; 1–3 hours for a 22 kW charger.
  • Connector Types: Type 2 connectors dominate this category, compatible with the CUPRA Born, Tavascan and also compatible for PHEV models such as CUPRA Leon, CUPRA Formentor and CUPRA Terramar.
     

Rapid Chargers (50 kW)

Rapid chargers are designed for quick stops, particularly during long-distance travel. They use DC power to deliver high-speed charging directly to your EV’s battery.

  • Best For: Long journeys or quick top-ups on the go.
  • Charging Time: 30–60 minutes to 80%.
  • Connector Types: CCS and CHAdeMO connectors are most commonly found on public chargers, and the Combined Charging System (CCS) is standard for CUPRA EVs.
     

Ultra-Rapid Chargers (100–350 kW)

Ultra-rapid charging represents the pinnacle of EV charging technology, they can be found at motorway service stations but are also available to purchase for at-home use. They are perfect for compatible EVs that can handle higher charging speeds.

  • Best For: High-mileage drivers.
  • Charging Time: 20 minutes for 80%.
  • Connector Types: CCS remains the standard, ensuring compatibility with the electric car range of CUPRA.
     

Types of Home EV Chargers

For CUPRA drivers, Charging your electric car at home offers flexibility and convenience. Home charging solutions can vary whether they have tethered or untethered cables.

  • Tethered Chargers: These have tethered cables, it is a cable which is fixed to the charger and designed specifically for your CUPRA. Simply plug it in, and you’re ready to charge.
  • Untethered Chargers: These allow flexibility to switch between vehicles or connectors.
     

When installing a home charger, ensure your home’s electrical system supports three-phase power and consult a professional to match a charging unit that fits the car.

For peace of mind, always use official or CUPRA-approved chargers and cables.

Planning Your Charging Strategy

As EV adoption grows, planning your charging routine becomes essential. Public charging networks and CUPRA’s tools, like charging maps, help you locate the most common types of chargers.

  • Home Charging: Ideal for overnight replenishment using a slow or fast charger.
  • Public Fast and Rapid Charging: Perfect for day-to-day needs or longer trips.
  • Ultra-Rapid Charging Hubs: For the fastest charging when every minute counts.
     

Charging your CUPRA EV is even greener if you decide to charge with renewable energy. This would allow you to reduce your carbon footprint even more.

Looking for assistance? Our customer service team is here to help.

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