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Lees verderCharging via the wall outlet: what do you need?
No charging station nearby? With a mobile charger, you can charge via a regular power outlet or a high-voltage outlet. Here's what you need to know about speed and safety.
Not everyone has a charging station outside their home. With a portable charger (also called a home charger or 'granny charger'), you can charge your car via a power outlet or a three-phase power connection. Handy in the driveway, at family’s homes, on vacation, or as a backup.
Regular power outlet (Schuko)
A portable charger with a Schuko plug fits into a regular grounded power outlet. You then charge on 1 phase at a maximum of 16A, or up to approximately 3.7 kW. In practice, you often set the charger to a lower current, such as 10A, to avoid putting too much strain on the outlet. Charging overnight will then provide enough power for most daily trips.
Pay attention to safety:
- Use a grounded power outlet in good condition.
- Preferably use a circuit with few other devices connected to it.
- Never use a cable reel or a thin household extension cord. They can become hot. If your outlet is too far away, choose an extension cord designed for EV charging.
- If you are unsure about your installation, have it inspected by an installer.
Three-phase power (CEE)
Do you have a red three-phase power connection (CEE, 5-pin) in your garage or shed? Then you can charge on 3 phases with a portable CEE charger, at up to 11 or 22 kW. How quickly your car actually charges depends on the charger in your car. A car that can handle a maximum of 11 kW will also charge at 11 kW with a 22 kW charger.
How long does charging take?
A rough rule of thumb: divide the amount of energy you want to charge (in kWh) by the charging power (in kW). If you want to add 30 kWh, it will take:
| Method | Power | Adding 30 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Power outlet, 10A | approx. 2.3 kW | approx. 13 hours |
| Power outlet, 16A | approx. 3.7 kW | approx. 8 hours |
| Three-phase power, 11 kW | 11 kW | approx. 3 hours |
These are estimates: due to charging losses and cold weather, charging often takes a little longer in practice.
Which portable charger is right for me?
- Only have a regular power outlet? Choose a portable charger with a Schuko plug.
- Three-phase power in the garage? A portable CEE charger charges much faster.
- Does the cable just fail to reach the power outlet? Use an extension cord suitable for EV charging.
View all portable chargers or use the selection guide to see what suits your car.
