Tethered vs untethered EV chargers
For owners of electric cars, or those who are considering purchasing one, installing an EV charger at your home is one of the first steps you will want to take. Home charging is a lot more convenient than finding a public charging point, and will allow you to ensure your vehicle has enough charge each time you wish to use it. Once deciding that you wish to install a charging point at your property, you must decide between a tethered and untethered charger. They both serve the same purpose, however there are different features which may make them more or less suited to your needs. In this blog we will be covering tethered and untethered meaning, and why each one may suit you.
Tethered EV charger
The most common type of charging point people opt for is a tethered EV charger. The charging cable is included in the cost of the charging point, and is permanently attached to the charging unit. You can unravel the cable from the charging unit and plug it into your vehicle, much like you would filling up your car at a petrol station. Charging manufacturers tend to provide a 5-metre cable as standard, although these can vary in length between 2 and 10 metres. Before installation, you will have to choose between a type 1 or type 2 connection type depending on the electric vehicle you own.
Untethered EV charger
This alternative type of charging point doesn’t have a charging cable permanently attached to it, which means you can have more flexibility over the type of charging cable you can connect to it. Having a detachable cable means you can take it with you and use it at other public charging points if you need to. It also means that you can plug in a cable to suit a different type of electric car if needed. You may need to purchase the charging cable separately, unless your vehicle comes with one included.
Tethered vs untethered EV chargers
Both types of chargers have pros and cons, which may help you make your decision on which one is right for you. But why should you choose each type?
Tethered charger benefits
- They are convenient as the cable is permanently attached so you can simply plug it into your vehicle.
- A tethered charging cable is included in the overall price of the unit.
- Because the cable is permanently attached, it is not at risk of being stolen.
Untethered charger benefits
- You can charge different vehicle types as you can connect a cable of your choice.
- Untethered cables can be stored separately so that the unit looks tidier and doesn’t affect the appearance of your home.
- The flexibility untethered charging provides means you can take your cable and charge your electric vehicle elsewhere.
Depending on whether you want flexibility or convenience, you can opt for an EV charging cable that suits your needs. If you want to have installation carried out by qualified experts, speak to us at EVC Electric Installations. We make the process simple and straightforward, with high quality seamless installation for your home. Book your installation by calling 01322 761101 or emailing office@evcinstalls.co.uk.
