EV Terms Explained for New Electric Vehicle Owners
Switching to an electric vehicle is exciting, but it can also feel like stepping into a world of new jargon. From AC and DC charging to kW and kWh, understanding the basics will help you make the most of your EV.
We’ve created this beginner-friendly blog so you can feel confident when talking about EV charging, range, and performance.
What Is AC Charging?
AC charging (Alternating Current) is the most common way to charge your electric car. It’s used for:
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Home charging via a wall box or a 3-pin plug charger.
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Public slow and fast chargers (up to 22kW).
Your EV’s onboard charger converts AC power into DC power to store in the battery. AC charging is ideal for overnight top-ups or charging while you’re at work or out and about.
A 7.4kW home charger can add around 30 miles of range per hour of charging.
Check out our range of Type 2 to UK 3-pin plug EV charging cables.
What Is DC Charging?
DC charging (Direct Current) is used for rapid and ultra-rapid public chargers. Here, the conversion from AC to DC happens inside the charger, bypassing your EV’s onboard charger for much faster charging.
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Rapid DC chargers: 50kW–100kW.
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Ultra-rapid DC chargers: 150kW–350kW.
DC charging is perfect for long road trips or quick top-ups on the go.
A 150kW rapid charger can charge many EVs up to 80% within 30 minutes or less.
kW vs kWh – What’s the Difference?
kW (kilowatt)
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A measure of power.
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In EV terms, it’s used for charging speed (e.g. a 7.4kW charger) and motor output (e.g. a 150kW motor).
kWh (kilowatt-hour)
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A measure of energy.
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In EVs, it describes the battery’s total capacity (e.g. a 60kWh battery).
Think of it this way: kW is the rate at which energy flows, and kWh is the amount of energy stored or used.
Other Key EV Terms You Should Know
Type 2 Connector
The standard AC charging connector in the UK and Europe. Works for home, workplace, and public charging.
CCS (Combined Charging System)
A connector that supports both AC and DC charging. Commonly used for rapid charging in the UK.
Range
The estimated distance your EV can travel on a full charge, usually based on WLTP testing.
Regenerative Braking
A system that recovers energy during braking and feeds it back into the battery.
State of Charge (SoC)
The current battery level, shown as a percentage.
Why Understanding EV Terms Matters
Knowing the difference between AC and DC charging, or kW and kWh, will help you:
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Choose the right home charging setup.
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Understand charging times and costs.
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Make informed decisions when buying a charging cable.
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Plan efficient public charging stops.
Choosing the Right Charging Cable for Your EV
Once you understand the basics, you’ll want the right cable for your charging needs:
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Type 2 to Type 2 cable – for AC charging at home and public charge points.
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Single-phase 7.4kW – most common for UK homes.
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Three-phase 22kW – ideal for faster public chargers and some homes with access to a 3-phase power supply.
Find out more about selecting the right cable for your needs in our blog: A Guide to Selecting the Right Type of EV Charging Cable.
Ready to charge your EV with confidence? Browse EVwired’s premium Type 2 EV charging cables – all with free UK delivery, 5-year warranty, and a free storage case.
Understanding EV terms is the first step to confident electric car ownership. Once you know the difference between AC and DC charging, or kW and kWh, you’ll be able to charge smarter, plan better journeys, and make informed EV purchases.
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