Electric vans have become a viable option for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs. However, understanding the various charging solutions available is crucial, especially when leasing these vehicles. In this article, we'll explore the different types of charging solutions for electric vans under lease, the considerations involved in leasing a charging station, and how to choose the right solution for your business.
What Are the Types of Electric Van Charging Solutions?
When leasing an electric van, it's essential to know the different charging solutions available. Charging infrastructure can significantly impact your van's usability, efficiency, and operational costs. Here are the main types of charging solutions:
What Is Level 1 Charging (Slow Charging Solution)?
Power: 3kW to 6kW (AC)
Connection: Uses a standard 3-pin plug, but a dedicated wall box installation is recommended for safety and efficiency
Charging Time: Takes 8 to 24 hours to fully recharge, depending on the battery size
Best Use Case: Ideal for overnight charging at homes or workplaces with extended parking durations
Level 1 charging is the most basic and widely accessible charging solution. It utilizes a standard 3-pin plug, commonly found in residential settings. However, for better safety and faster charging, it's advisable to install a dedicated wall box. Level 1 chargers are slow, taking anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to recharge an electric van fully, making them suitable for overnight charging at home or in a workplace where the van can be left for long periods.
What Is Level 2 Charging (Fast Charging Solution)?
Power: 7kW to 22kW (AC)
Prevalence: The most prevalent public charging solution, ideal for "destination charging" during extended stops
Charging Time: Takes up to 5 hours to recharge an electric van's battery
Availability: More Level 2 chargers are publicly available compared to other levels
Level 2 charging is the most common solution for public charging stations. It offers a faster recharge time, taking up to 5 hours to fully charge an electric van. This makes Level 2 chargers ideal for "destination charging" during extended stops, such as when the van is parked at a business location or public parking area. Level 2 charging stations are widely available, providing flexibility for businesses that need to charge their electric vans while on the go.
What Is Level 3 Charging (Rapid Charging Solution)?
Power: 25kW to 100kW (DC)
Best Use Case: Perfect for situations requiring a quick battery boost, often found at ferry terminals, EV forecourts, motorway service areas, and gas stations
Technology: Utilizes direct current (DC) delivered directly to the vehicle's battery, bypassing the onboard charger
Charging Time: Significantly faster, capable of recharging an electric van in as little as 30 minutes
Level 3 charging, also known as rapid charging, is the fastest charging solution available. It uses direct current (DC) to charge the vehicle's battery directly, bypassing the onboard charger. This method allows for much quicker charging times, often recharging an electric van in as little as 30 minutes. Level 3 chargers are typically found at high-traffic locations like motorway service areas, gas stations, and EV forecourts, making them ideal for businesses that require a quick battery boost during the day.
How Do You Choose the Right Charging Solution?
Choosing the right charging solution for your electric van under lease depends on several factors, including your business needs, the size of your fleet's batteries, and your typical driving patterns. Here are some key considerations:
Distance Driven: Businesses driving long distances will benefit from using public charging solutions, particularly at motorway service areas, forecourts, and electric vehicle hubs, where rapid charging is available.
Charging Time: If your business primarily operates within a city area and your vans are parked overnight at your business base, Level 1 or Level 2 chargers may be sufficient for overnight charging.
Fleet Size: Larger fleets with varying driving needs may require a mix of charging solutions, including Level 1 for overnight charging and Level 3 for quick top-ups during the day.
How Does EVFY Support Zero-Emission Deliveries?
At EVFY, we are committed to providing zero-emissions delivery solutions that align with our clients' sustainability goals. Our 100% electric vehicle fleet is at the heart of this commitment, offering clean and quiet logistics operations that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Our services include:
Zero-Emissions Deliveries: We use electric vans to ensure that all deliveries are made without contributing to air pollution, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint.
Solar-Enabled Warehouse Fulfilment: Our green warehouses are equipped with solar power, further reducing the environmental impact of our logistics operations.
Comprehensive Electrification Solutions: We offer a range of customized electrification solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients, from EV leasing to charging infrastructure.
Whether you're delivering parcels or managing bulk shipments, our electric vehicles provide a reliable and efficient solution. By choosing EVFY, you can be confident that your logistics operations are supporting a greener future.
Ready to make the switch? Contact EVFY today to learn more about how our electric vehicle solutions can benefit your business and contribute to a sustainable future.