The technology behind the EV charger stations which are installed in commercial situationsis a relatively new science and can have an effect on any future electrical installation. As a result, at Lloyd Electrical we have been working hard to keep up to date with WorkSafe guidelines for EV Charger installation and safe use, with wiring rules-AS/NZS 3000 and with upcoming changes to the Electrical Regulations.

As with all new technologies, it is easy to rush in and to overlook backbone systems in commercial installations that then could cause major issues. There must be a responsibility taken to look at the whole electrical installation to ensure that the system can handle the additional load. EV charger stations are a unique load in that they are a high use long term load when used to their full potential. Unless measures are taken, this type of use can put a strain on to the electrical system, possibly causing overloading and resulting in power outages.

To complicate matters, different EV models can charge at different slow and rapid speeds depending on what on-board charger has been fitted, with some plug-in hybrids unable to rapid charge. The size of the batteries also have a significant influence on charging speeds, the larger EV batteries are more likely to require rapid charging. For example, a Renault Zoe Chameleon charger can take any charge up to 43kW, so this will take the full 22kWh capacity, whereas a Hyundai Kona’s charge capacity is 7.2kW. Other manufacturers charge ca
pacitiesare: Tesla Model S75 – 22kW, Leaf Gen 2 – 6.5kW, VW e-Golf – 7.2kW, Jaguar I-Pace – 7kW, Hyundai Ioniq – 6.6kW, Audi E-Tron – 11 kW and Volvo XC90 PHEV – 3.7kW.

Rapid chargers are one of two types – AC or DC [Alternating or Direct Current]. Current Rapid AC chargers are rated at 43kW, while most Rapid DC units are at least 50kW. Both will charge the majority of EVs to 80% in around 30-60 minutes (depending on the battery capacity). Tesla Superchargers are also Rapid DC and charge at around 120kW. Rapid AC devices use a tethered Type 2 connector, and Rapid DC chargers are fitted with a CCS, CHAdeMO or Tesla Type 2.

Fast chargers include those which provide power from 7kW to 22kW, which typically fully charge an EV in 3-4 hours. Common fast connectors are a tethered Type 1 or a Type 2 socket (via a connector cable supplied with the vehicle).

Slow units (up to 3kW) are best used for overnight charging and usually take between 6 and 12 hours for a pure-EV, or 2-4 hours for a PHEV. EVs charge on slow devices using a cable which connects the vehicle to a 3-pin or Type 2 socket.

WorkSafe inspectors have issued a guideline which details the tests required for a periodic assessment to be conducted annually for commercial EV charger stations. These assessments are comprehensive and are above and beyond general electrical standards for installation and testing, AS/NZS 3000 and AS/NZS 3760.

Lloyd Electrical has purchased the specialist EV charger Test module. This allows us to conduct all manufacturers’ tests as required, and to simulate a car connection to confirm correct operation. We are also experienced in downloading the units’ maintenance reports to check for any historical issues, that the correct firmware is installed, and that all network and electrical connections are as expected.

Electrical Vehicle Charging Unit Testing & Installation. Residential & Commercial Charging Unit Installation Project. Auckland Wide Service.

For more information contact us on 09 4157075