byAlexandra Miles/October 7, 2024/inVolvo News

What is the difference between AC and DC Charging?

As Volvo has made the public commitment to be fully electric by 2030, we thought we’d start a series of easy-to-understand, informational news posts to help you better understand your favourite, almost all electric Swedish vehicle brand.

The Futures Electric

While browsing the new EX30, and reading about the upcoming EX90, it’s likely you’ll have seen “AC and DC” charging listed amongst other elements for charging your Volvo, but what exactly does AC and DC charging mean?

AC charging, or “Alternative Current” charging is the most common method and type that you are likely to use. When your vehicle is plugged in to charge via AC charging, power needs to be converted from the grid through the vehicle’s onboard charger and converted into a direct current. Once this is completed, it’s then stored in your car’s battery for use.

In New Zealand, Evnex Chargers are Volvo’s preferred choice. The time it takes to charge the battery varies between vehicles, depending on the charging station, battery size, and car model. For an electric Volvo using hte recommended charger, it takes approximately size to twelve hours. It’s also advisable to charge when electricity prices are at their lowest, typically overnight.

Pros vs. Cons

What are the advantages of AC charging?

Ideal and easy for home use: AC chargers are the OG EV chargers and are almost exclusively offered for private use at home.
Cost-effective: Installation of an AC wall charger is not an expensive or fussy job to do, although a certified electrician must do it. As they charge at a lower current, it also costs you less to reach your desired battery level.
Battery longevity: Due to AC charging being slower overall, it causes less heat generation compared to DC. This helps your Volvo’s battery stay in tiptop health condition, helping it to live a longer life.
Widespread availability: As well as most common at home, AC chargers are most likely what you will encounter when needing to top up while out.

Are there any disadvantages of AC charging?

Slower charging speeds: When compared to DC charging, AC takes around 6-12 hours to fully charge a Volvo. Generally, most owners charge overnight, so this isn’t much of a concern. However, if you need a fast charge during a pit stop on a family road trip, AC charging is not ideal.

Hitting Directly

So, we know all about AC charging now, but what is DC charging exactly?

DC charging, or “Direct Current” charging is a bit more advanced and overall gives a faster, more efficient charge to the vehicle.

Unlike AC charging, the current doesn’t need to be converted by the vehicles on-board charger when delivering it. Instead, the DC charging stations are equipped with technology that converts electricity directly from the grid into direct current.

This means that instead of winding through an extra step, the charge is delivered faster, resulting in a shorter charging time.

What are the advantages to DC charging?

Speed: The primary advantage of DC charging is its ability to reduce charging time, making it practical for longer road trips.
Convenience for long distances: Right now, most DC chargers are placed strategically along motorways which makes long-distance travel more feasible for EV owners.

So, why shouldn’t we use DC charging all the time?

Price: While DC charging is faster, it also comes at a higher price point than charging at home, or at a public AC station.
Battery health: While DC charging is a fantastic option to have when needed (long drives, quick charge needs), using it all the time can increase the batteries age, therefore, for optimal care, it’s advised to use AC when possible and DC by discretion.

The Drive Away

With life driven by electrification advancing at a constant speed, it’s important to know the ins and outs of it all and how to best utilise and care for your Volvo. Stay tuned for more news and updates that will help you better understand your prized Volvo joy.

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