For many years, EV charging stations have brought such a significant advantage to businesses and fleet operations. Among its key benefits is giving businesses the ability to attract more customers, making it a viable investment. The adaptation of EVs also represents a business’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability which can positively impact their public brand reputation.
As many people switch to EVs and governments promote sustainable transportation, the demand for EV charging infrastructure is rising significantly-especially with businesses aiming to draw more potential customers.
What also makes EV charging station implementation a smart strategy for businesses is the unit’s ability to collect and analyse data such as energy use and charging patterns, which can be used to streamline their operations and make strategic decisions.
With many EV charging models and brands stepping into the EV landscape, choosing the right charging solution can feel like finding a way through a maze for many. But among the attractive options out there is one that offers smart charging capacity which both Integrated and Distributed EV charging systems can do. Which of these is a smarter choice for your business?
Integrated EV Charging Systems
An integrated EV charger is a charging unit that has a built-in powerhouse, including power conversion system, control electronics, and communication protocols. It is an all-in-one design that requires less space for installation, unlike distributed systems.
Pros:
- Independent operation
- Simpler modular installation (Fewer parts to connect means easier installation)
- Lower Initial Cost
Cons:
- Limited Scalability (If you want to expand your charging capacity, you may have to install additional separate units)
- Individual units may have limitations on the power they can deliver
Integrated EV chargers have a fixed power distribution. One individual unit failure doesn’t affect the rest, making them ideal for small to medium-sized stations needing quick deployment.
Distributed EV Charging Systems
On the other hand, a distributed EV charger is a charging system that has a central powerhouse where power conversion happens within, and this DC power is then distributed to individual charging points or outlets located throughout an area.
Pros:
- Dynamic power allocation (Can provide power up to 480kW that is supplied to multiple terminals. It can serve 16 electric cars at once!)
- Scalability (Its high power capabilities allows adding more charging points by connecting them to the power unit)
- Intelligent power distribution for optimised power charging times and overloading prevention
- Flexible deployment
Cons:
- Higher installation costs (Setting up the system requires complex wiring and multiple components)
As the demand for electric vehicles grows, acquiring EV chargers can be a vital strategy for a business operation. Having a scalable charging infrastructure that provides dynamic power capabilities will be crucial for supporting transitions for multiple electric vehicles.
With EVs demanding for higher power, renowned EV brands like XPend, NIO, BYD, and Geely are working on boosting their EV platforms up to 800V high-voltage, making high efficiency solutions achievable.
Charge Ninja offers Integrated and Distributed EV charging systems to suit whatever your business or fleet needs. Whether you are in need of a high-powered EV charging unit for larger commercial sites or prefer a more affordable charging station for single-user applications, we present a wide array of charging solutions that can give you great advantage when it comes to power management and scalability. Talk to us!
What is the main difference between integrated and distributed EV chargers?
Integrated EV charger is an all-in-unit while distributed EV chargers separate power unit and charging points.
How long does it take to charge an EV?
EV charging time depends on the battery capacity and the speed of the charger.
Where can I find Integrated vs distributed EV chargers?
Charge Ninja offers various EV charging systems such as high-powered distributed EV charging units for larger commercial sites and integrated EV charging stations for single-user applications.