What is the need of an on-board charger?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as more people seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel. One of the key components of an EV is the on-board charger. In this article, we will discuss the need for an on-board charger in EVs.

First, let’s define what an on-board charger is. Simply put, an on-board charger is an electronic device that is integrated into the EV and is responsible for converting AC power from a charging station into DC power that can be stored in the vehicle’s battery pack. On-board chargers are typically rated at a specific power level, usually in kilowatts (kW), which determines their charging speed.

The primary need for an on-board charger in an EV is the ability to recharge the battery pack while the vehicle is parked. Unlike a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle that can refuel in a matter of minutes at a gas station, charging an EV takes more time and planning. Most charging is done overnight at home or in a workplace charger, which means that having an on-board charger is crucial for EV owners who want to charge their vehicle in the shortest amount of time possible.

When it comes to charging an EV, there are two primary methods: AC (alternating current) charging and DC (direct current) fast charging. The on-board charger in an EV typically handles AC charging, which is the slower of the two methods. AC charging can take several hours to fully charge an EV, depending on the battery pack’s size and the power rating of the on-board charger.

DC fast charging, on the other hand, can charge an EV from 0 to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. However, this type of charging requires a separate DC fast charging station that is not always available. Plus, not all EVs can accept DC fast charging, which is why having a capable on-board charger is crucial for EV owners who want to maximize their charging time.

In addition to charging speed, another reason why an on-board charger is important is that it provides a convenient way to charge your EV without the need for external chargers. Most EVs come with an on-board charger that is compatible with standard AC outlets, which means you can charge your EV from any standard wall outlet if needed. This is particularly useful for EV owners who live in apartments or homes without dedicated charging infrastructure.

Overall, an on-board charger is an essential component of an EV that enables quick and convenient charging. As more people adopt EVs, the demand for faster and more powerful on-board chargers will only increase. Fortunately, many EV manufacturers are already working on developing next-generation on-board chargers that can charge EVs even faster and more efficiently than ever before.