Evec EV Charger Review - Type 1 & Type 2, Single Phase, Untethered VEC01

In the current landscape of electric vehicle (EV) technology, the need for efficient and reliable home charging solutions has become increasingly significant. 

The Evec VEC01 charger emerges as a promising option for EV owners, offering the convenience of both Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, suitable for the full spectrum of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. 

This untethered, single-phase unit is lauded for its balance between affordability and functionality, addressing the growing demand for cost-effective home charging infrastructure without compromising on performance or safety.

At the core of the VEC01's appeal is its user-friendly design that caters to ease of installation and operation, paired with smart charging capabilities — a critical factor as the market gravitates towards intelligent energy management. 

The unit's adaptability is further emphasised by its compatibility with a range of vehicles, underpinning the shift to greener transportation by ensuring that users can leverage the benefits of home charging. Engaging with this type of charging solution not only offers advantages in terms of cost compared to public charging stations, but also gives more control over the charging process, ultimately contributing to a reduced environmental footprint.

Overview of Evec EV Charger VEC01

The Evec EV Charger VEC01 emerges as a practical solution in the realm of electric vehicle (EV) charging. Designed to cater to a wide array of EVs, the VEC01 model supports both Type 1 and Type 2 connections, thus serving a diverse user base. As an untethered, single-phase charger, the VEC01 provides users the flexibility of using their own charging cables, which can be especially useful for those who own multiple EVs with different connector types.

With its functionality in a single-phase power setup, the charging unit is suitable for domestic home use. It operates efficiently to deliver adjustable power settings, typically offering 3.7kW and 7.4kW options. This level of output is sufficient for daily charging routines, catering to short local commutes and extended journeys alike.

At its core, the VEC01 charger balances affordability with essential features. The unit's cost-effectiveness should not be mistaken for a compromise on quality. Despite being one of the more affordable chargers on the market, it doesn't skimp on reliability or build quality. It is a compact, unobtrusive addition to any home, with a modern aesthetic that neatly complements a variety of settings.

The installation of VEC01 is typically inclusive of built-in safety features, such as PEN Protection. Additional elements include LED lights that intuitively display charging status and flag any error messages. While specifics may vary slightly, Evec aims to deliver a straightforward, effective charging experience for EV owners without straining their budgets.

Benefits of Home EV Chargers vs Public Chargers

Home EV chargers and public EV chargers each have distinct advantages that cater to the needs of electric vehicle (EV) users. Home charging units, such as the Evec EV charger, typically offer the convenience of charging overnight, ensuring that the vehicle is ready for use each morning. This aligns well with the typical daily usage patterns of many drivers. Furthermore, homeowners can often benefit from lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, making home charging a cost-effective option.

In contrast, public chargers are crucial for long-distance travel, providing essential top-up points on motorways and in cities. However, the reliability of being able to charge at home can often outweigh the convenience of public stations.

• Accessibility: Home chargers are always accessible to the user and remove the worry of locating and waiting for public charging points.

• Cost Savings: Charging at home is usually cheaper than using public chargers, especially if one takes advantage of off-peak tariffs.

Home units like the Evec VEC01 offer flexibility with options for both Type 1 and Type 2 connectors and adjustability between single or three-phase charging to match the user's installation. They also come untethered, giving drivers freedom to use their connector.

While public chargers are essential for widespread EV adoption and cater to drivers without private parking, the convenience and cost-effectiveness of home chargers like the Evec EV charger are significant. They provide a reliable and easy-to-manage solution for daily use.

Key Features of Type 1 & Type 2, Single Phase, Untethered - VEC01: Detailed List

The VEC01 model brings together efficiency and versatility, equipped with features tailored to enhance the electric vehicle charging experience for various users.

Design and Build Quality

The VEC01 charger showcases a compact design that is both corrosion resistant and fire retardant. It comes with an IP55 rating, ensuring the unit is dust and weatherproof, embodying durability that allows it to withstand diverse environmental conditions.

Safety and Protections

For safety, the VEC01 is built with over current and residual current protection mechanisms. It integrates built-in PEN protection, meaning no separate earth rod is needed, which streamlines the installation process. The unit is CE and UKCA approved, showcasing its adherence to strict safety standards.

Technical Specifications

This charger supports a 7.4kW power output and offers a single-phase connection. It features a Type 2 socket and is capable of being adjusted to lower settings when needed. The charger's robust build allows it to function optimally in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 50°C.

Smart Charging Capabilities

Equipped with full OCPP 1.6J protocols, the VEC01 charger can engage in smart charging, including load balancing which ensures optimal power distribution during charging sessions. It integrates seamlessly with the EVEC charging app, providing users with WiFi connectivity and Bluetooth support.

User Experience

The user interface of the VEC01 consists of built-in LED lights that indicate the charging status and flag any error messages. The included EVEC app enhances user control over the charger, offering the ability to adjust power settings remotely and keep track of the charging process efficiently.

Connectivity and Control

The VEC01 EV charger by Evec incorporates several connectivity features that allow for a seamless and controlled charging experience. Bluetooth capability remains absent, however, the charger's strengths lie primarily in its Wi-Fi connectivity. With Wi-Fi, users gain the advantage of handling their charging needs remotely.

Users can utilise the Evec app to manage charging sessions. This app, tailored for the VEC01, boasts a user-friendly interface, enabling one to set and adjust charging schedules with ease. The scheduler's flexibility means vehicles can be charged when electricity rates are lower, typically during the night, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency.

Despite being a smart charger, VEC01 has a backup operation mode. In instances where Wi-Fi is unavailable, it can function as a standard, "dumb" charger. With just a push of a button on the unit, charging commences or halts, ensuring continuous operability irrespective of network status.

The absence of an LCD display simplifies the design, while the status is indicated by a simple yet effective blue light. Advanced users might seek more visual feedback, but the minimalistic approach pairs well with the intuitive Evec charging app, which becomes the central hub for monitoring and control.

In summary, the VEC01 provides essential connectivity features through Wi-Fi, and, together with the dedicated Evec app, it offers robust control over the charging process. The charger's resilience in offline situations endorses its reliability and user adaptability, capturing the essence of what modern EV owners require from a home charging station.

Compatibility and Usage

The VEC01 EV charger by Evec is designed with a versatile approach to electric vehicle charging. It is equipped to handle both Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, catering to a wide array of electric vehicles. This adaptability ensures that the charger is a universal solution for EV owners, highlighting its universal charging port credentials.

Being untethered, the VEC01 affords users the convenience of using their own charging cables. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who may own or use electric vehicles with differing connector types. Users have the freedom to switch between Type 1 and Type 2 cables as needed, enhancing the charger's universal appeal.

In terms of installation and daily use, the charger prioritises ease. The process remains straightforward: once installed by a qualified professional, one can connect their electric vehicle to the charger via their preferred cable. With its untethered nature, the VEC01 sidesteps the commitment to a fixed cable, providing flexibility for vehicles that may require different connectors.

Compatibility extends beyond the physical. The evec EV charger is designed to integrate seamlessly with a smart device application, adding an extra layer of user-friendly interaction. The smart technology allows for adjustable power settings, which not only accommodates different vehicle needs but also enables efficient energy usage.

Overall, its compatibility with all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles equipped with Type 1 or Type 2 connectors, alongside its user-focused design, makes the EVEC VEC01 a compelling choice for home installation.

Environmental Impact

The evec EV charger, specifically the VEC01 model, offers an environmentally conscious solution for electric vehicle (EV) owners. Its design accommodates both Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, aligning with a universal approach to electric vehicle ownership. Moreover, it's positioned as a smart choice to reduce the carbon footprint associated with personal transportation.

Electric vehicles are a linchpin in the drive towards reducing vehicular emissions. The VEC01 evec charger further amplifies this benefit by providing efficient charging. Its single-phase, untethered system suggests a reduction in material use and waste, considering the flexibility to use existing cables possessed by EV owners.

By facilitating home charging, the evec charger could potentially lower the reliance on traditional energy grids during peak hours. This can lead to a smoother energy demand curve and better utilisation of renewable energy sources. Through this, it may indirectly support initiatives like Cool Earth that aim to mitigate climate change by protecting rainforests, which are vital carbon sinks.

The following list details the VEC01's characteristics that contribute to its environmental benefits:

• Universal Compatibility: Suitable for all EVs with Type 1 or Type 2 ports.

• Adjustable Power: Owners can select either 3.7kW or 7.4kW power outputs, optimising energy usage.

• Smart Charging: It encourages utilising off-peak electricity, often sourced from renewable energy.

• Durable Design: Reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

In essence, the VEC01 charger by evec reflects the shifting paradigm towards sustainable personal transport solutions. Its attributes not only serve individual needs but also echo the collective voice for a greener future.

Certifications and Standards

The Evec VEC01 EV charger, a single-phase, untethered unit compatible with both Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, adheres to respected certification standards. Safety and compliance are pivotal, thus the unit is CE marked, indicating conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards within the European Economic Area. Furthermore, it is UKCA approved, signalling adherence to UK regulatory requirements post-Brexit.

Compliance with these certifications ensures that the charger meets rigorous quality control measures, providing users with assurance regarding its performance and safety features. The certifications also affirm that the Evec VEC01 has undergone thorough testing and quality assessments, ensuring it meets the detailed specifications demanded by regulators.

Moreover, the incorporation of these standards implicates the product's compatibility with modern electric vehicles and its preparedness for integration within diverse electrical infrastructures at home. The adherence to CE and UKCA certifications is testament to the charger's reliability and the manufacturer's commitment to upholding high standards in product safety and consumer satisfaction.

To summarise, the Evec VEC01 charger's certifications include:

• CE: Compliance with EU safety directives

• UKCA: Conformity with UK-specific regulations

These endorsements fortify consumer confidence in the Evec VEC01's ability to deliver safe, efficient, and compliant charging solutions.

EV Charger Installation with iHeat

When considering the installation of an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger in the UK, iHeat offers efficient solutions tailored for private homeowners. 

Answer a few simple questions about your home and current car, (don’t worry, it only takes 60 seconds).

Choose from our range of EV chargers suitable for your home. Then checkout securely online.

Our expert engineers will install your new EV charger, we will also arrange your warranty. Thanks to our fully inclusive after care, you won't have to worry about a thing.

• We can only install where the cable wouldn't run across public land

• We install Nationwide