How to distinguish fast and slow charging of charging stations

The charging methods of electric vehicles are mainly divided into fast charging and slow charging, which correspond to DC and AC interfaces respectively to meet the needs of different speeds and costs.

Generally speaking, there are usually 5 fast charging interfaces, while slow charging has 2 more, reaching 7 interfaces. Visually, the thickness of the fast charging cable has also become a clear distinguishing feature. For some car models, due to cost control or battery capacity considerations, only one charging mode may be provided, with only one charging port.

fast charging station and slow charging station

In practical operation, fast charging utilizes high current DC or AC technology to charge batteries at lightning speed, but this fast charging method requires more complex station construction facilities and higher cost investment.

In contrast, slow charging uses the vehicle's built-in charging system to charge the battery in a smoother way, which is beneficial for battery life and has lower construction costs. However, it takes a longer time to fully charge, usually 8 to 10 hours.

Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions when choosing a charging method, whether for daily commuting or long-distance travel, and find the most suitable charging strategy.