If you’re new to electric vehicles (EVs) or thinking about making the switch, one of the first things you’ll encounter is the variety of EV chargers available. It can feel a little overwhelming at first, with different types, power levels, and charging speeds to consider. At Tap Zap Go, we want to make it simple and clear so you can choose the right charger for your needs – and understand what makes ultra-rapid charging a real game changer, so we have put together the ultimate guide to EV chargers.
This guide to EV chargers will explain the main types of EV chargers you’ll come across and why ultra-rapid charging, like our 120 kW CCS2 charger, is fast becoming the preferred choice for many EV drivers.
Slow Chargers (AC Charging)
Slow chargers are the most basic type of EV charger and are often used for home charging or at workplaces where vehicles are parked for long periods. These chargers typically provide up to 3.7 kW of power and use alternating current (AC) to charge your vehicle.
Because of their lower power output, slow chargers usually take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours – or even longer – to fully charge an EV. This means they’re not suited to quick top-ups but work perfectly if you can leave your car plugged in overnight or during the working day. Many EV owners find slow chargers a convenient and cost-effective way to maintain their vehicle’s battery without needing to visit public charging stations regularly.
Fast Chargers (AC Charging)
Fast chargers offer a step up in power, usually delivering between 7 kW and 22 kW. Like slow chargers, they use AC power but can charge an EV much more quickly – typically between 3 and 5 hours for a full charge.
These chargers are frequently found in public locations such as car parks, shopping centres, and office premises. Fast chargers are great for drivers who want to top up their EV during the day while they shop or work. They strike a good balance between charging speed and convenience, but they still require a fair amount of time to fully replenish the battery.
Rapid Chargers (DC Charging)
Rapid chargers use direct current (DC), which allows them to bypass the car’s onboard charger and deliver electricity directly to the battery. This enables much faster charging compared to slow and fast AC chargers.
Typically, rapid chargers provide between 43 kW and 50 kW of power. You’ll often find rapid chargers at motorway service stations and busy urban locations where drivers need to recharge quickly and continue their journeys.
With rapid charging, you can usually charge your EV battery to around 80 per cent in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger. While significantly faster than AC chargers, rapid chargers still require some waiting time, making them suitable for breaks but not for those who want to get back on the road almost immediately.
Ultra-Rapid Chargers (DC Charging)
Ultra-rapid chargers represent the latest and fastest charging technology available to EV drivers. At Tap Zap Go, we provide ultra-rapid charging with a powerful 120 kW output, using the CCS2 (Combined Charging System Type 2) connector – the most common and widely supported charging standard in the UK.
Thanks to this high power level, our ultra-rapid charger can bring your EV battery up to 80 per cent in as little as 20 minutes, depending on the size of the battery and the vehicle’s charging capability. This speed dramatically reduces charging times, meaning less waiting and more time spent driving.
Ultra-rapid chargers like ours are ideal for those who need to recharge quickly during journeys, whether commuting or travelling longer distances. They help tackle range anxiety and provide a convenient solution for fast turnaround charging.
Why Choose Tap Zap Go’s Ultra-Rapid Charger?
Super-fast charging: Our 120 kW power output means you spend minimal time waiting to recharge.
Wide compatibility: The CCS2 connector supports most modern EVs, ensuring you can charge with confidence.
Convenient location: Situated at Medway City Estate, our chargers are easy to access for local drivers and visitors alike.
Reliable service: We maintain our chargers regularly to keep them in top condition, providing you with dependable service every time.
Choosing the right EV charger depends largely on your lifestyle, daily driving habits, and where you typically charge your vehicle. Slow and fast AC chargers are excellent for home use and top-ups when parked for long periods. Rapid DC chargers help on longer trips where you need a faster recharge.
But if you want the quickest possible charging experience with minimal downtime, ultra-rapid chargers like the 120 kW CCS2 unit at Tap Zap Go are the way forward.
Whether you already own an EV or are considering purchasing one, our ultra-rapid charger is ready to keep you moving with the speed and convenience you deserve.
All information correct as of 02/07/2025.
