What are the different charge modes?

Depending on its compatibility, an electric vehicle (EV) can be charged in two different ways:  

• via AC (alternative current); in this case the charger distributes the energy to the electric vehicle. This current is then converted in the EV by the vehicle's built-in converter, to supply the battery and be stored.  

This charging method is currently the most common – it is estimated that 80% of charging is done on a daily basis at home and at the workplace. AC charging is the most adapted and the least expensive when the vehicle is parked for an extended period (more than 30 minutes). 

• via DC (direct current); in this case, the station itself converts the network’s AC current into DC current before sending it to the vehicle to directly charge the battery. 

This rapid charging mode is the best suited to ad hoc charging, limited to around 45 minutes.  

To learn more about the different types of current and their use, read our article