Electric mobility - Solutions for charging infrastructure & electromobility

Electric mobility is more than just a trend—it’s the future. As electric vehicles become more widespread, so does the need for suitable charging infrastructure solutions. That’s why you’ll find innovative products and state-of-the-art technology from renowned brands for your electric vehicle here. Our current product range includes EV chargers, wall boxes, and compatible accessories. We’re also constantly expanding our selection to ensure your electric car or plug-in hybrid is always ready to go, whether for your next adventure, your commute to work, or your next shopping trip.

What is an EV charger?

The basic function is already in the name, as EV stands for "Electric Vehicle," so it is a charger specifically designed for electric vehicles. The chargers we offer can charge a wide variety of electric cars, as long as they are equipped with the correct charging connector. The Type 2 charging connector is the standard in Europe and is compatible with the following models, for example:

• Tesla Model S, Model 3, Model X
• BMW i Series, 225xe, e-Series
• Audi e-tron, A6-A7-A8 TFSI e
• Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4, e-Golf

In addition, there are both single-phase and three-phase devices, as well as models that support both operating modes, to meet the specific needs of your electric vehicles. Our chargers are generally suitable for both residential and commercial use and can mostly be combined with PV systems, so your electric car is powered by green solar energy. Thanks to modern app control via Bluetooth or, in most cases, Wi-Fi, you retain full control and have access to operating parameters and statistics.

What makes a wallbox different?

A wallbox is an EV charger for home use and, unlike general EV chargers and charging stations, can only be mounted on a wall or a post and therefore cannot be installed and used as a freestanding charging station. Otherwise, there are no predefined standards, so there are models ranging from those designed for connection to simple three-phase outlets to networked charging connections that communicate with multiple charging points and, for example, the PV system and battery storage. Less powerful wallboxes can also be operated with single-phase power. In general, a wallbox charges your electric vehicle much faster than using a standard household outlet and offers many additional benefits, such as integrated battery protection, programmable operating modes, and various monitoring options. Colloquially, the wallbox is often referred to as a wall-mounted charging station, though it is typically installed directly into a wall.

Various operating modes

In addition to manual configuration, the devices feature various operating modes depending on the model and version, which, for example, allow for flexible switching between optimal power supply via solar energy or fast-charging options—in some cases even dynamically or on a timer. In fast-charging mode, charging occurs at maximum power, using a renewable energy source if available or, alternatively, directly from the power grid. Often, there is a PV mode that allows charging exclusively with surplus solar energy, so that the vehicle is powered 100% by renewable energy. In off-peak mode, the charger operates exclusively during off-peak hours to reduce the electricity bill. If the device features a load balancing mode, the charging power can be dynamically adjusted to the home’s power capacity using the appropriate accessories, ensuring the electric vehicle is charged at maximum power without triggering the power limit.

Charging Methods and Plug Types

Electric vehicles can be charged using either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). AC chargers charge the battery more evenly but are generally slower, as the conversion of the current takes place directly in the vehicle and is limited by the capacity of the built-in converter. DC chargers charge the battery much faster as fast chargers, since the conversion takes place directly in the charger, but they are also much larger and more expensive. In addition to the type of current, factors such as the charger’s power output and the power the vehicle can actually handle also influence the charging speed. In short: The component with the lowest power output ultimately determines the overall charging speed.

With the introduction of electric vehicles, various plug types have also been developed, depending on the characteristics of the power grid and the type of current used. In Europe, three-phase Type 2 plugs are the standard for AC charging, enabling a charging power of up to 22 kW at home and up to 43 kW at public charging stations. In addition to these, CCS connectors can also be found at charging stations in Europe. This is an enhanced version of the Type 2 connector with two additional current contacts for fast charging. It supports both AC and DC charging at speeds of up to 350 kW. There are also single-phase Type 1 connectors, which are the AC standard for electric vehicles from America and Asia and enable a charging power of up to 7.4 kW. CHAdeMO is a DC fast-charging system from Japan that is primarily compatible with Asian electric cars and enables charging capacities of up to 100 kW.

Why does my EV charger need RFID?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification and enables contactless data exchange. The technology is already used in many everyday situations, such as in access cards for hotel rooms or for contactless payments. Some EV chargers also feature RFID technology, as it offers a convenient way to manage charging permissions. It enables straightforward user authorization to charge at the charger using pre-programmed RFID cards and the subsequent assignment of the delivered energy to a specific user along with the corresponding timestamp. This is particularly useful, for example, for tracking and billing charging energy for different users or for company cars that are charged at home.

Location and Installation

Installing an EV charger requires careful planning and professional assistance. In general, the installation of an EV charger or charging station must always be performed by a certified electrician to ensure efficient and safe operation and, if applicable, to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty. When choosing a location, you should consider the specific requirements of your charging station, such as the type of mounting and protection from the elements. Also, make sure that the charging cable and plug are compatible with your electric vehicle and that the power output meets the requirements of your vehicle model and your individual needs. Modern chargers also often offer smart features, such as remote monitoring and smart home integrations. It’s best to consider in advance whether you’d like to use these features. You should also not forget about registration. While EV chargers with up to 11 kW currently only need to be registered with the relevant grid operator, charging stations with 22 kW require additional approval.