A mono phase electric grid is a type of electrical distribution system that uses a single phase of alternating current (AC) to power electrical devices and appliances. This type of system is commonly used in residential and small commercial settings, where the power demands are relatively low.

A three-phase electric grid, on the other hand, uses three phases of AC power to distribute electricity. This type of system is more common in larger commercial and industrial settings, where the power demands are higher. The three phases of AC power are offset from each other in time, which helps to balance the load and improve the efficiency of the system.

When it comes to the voltage of the electric grid, this refers to the potential difference between the two poles of the AC power. In a mono phase electric grid, the voltage is typically 230V, while in a three-phase electric grid, the voltage is typically 400V. In some cases, the three-phase electric grid may include a neutral wire, indicated by the "+ N" in the description. This neutral wire provides a common reference point for the three phases of AC power, allowing for more efficient distribution of electricity.

How fast can the vehicle charge?

As a general rule, higher charging power translates to shorter charging time. The vehicle charging speed depends on several factors. The charging speed will therefore be determined by the most limiting factor among the following:

Main power grid

The voltage of the home/building grid will determine how fast you can charge the vehicle. A distinction is made between 400V and 230V, as well as the number of phases, single-phase or three-phase.

Power of the subscribed subscription

Indeed, in addition to the mechanical protection via existing electrical devices, the subscription taken out with the operator of the electrical network may limit the power of the recharge to a certain threshold under penalty of seeing your installation cut out. In the case of a three-phase electrical installation with a subscribed subscription of 16KvA for example, even with the installation of a 40A caliber circuit breaker at the head of the terminal, you will need to restrict the power of the terminal in order to avoid a cut of your general distribution by the network operator manifesting itself by the disjunction of the subscriber meter.

circuit breaker

The circuit breaker capacity determines the amount of energy that can pass through the circuit breaker to the charging station. The size of the circuit breaker will be adapted to your electrical installation and determines the power available for recharging. If the circuit breaker has a lower rating than the load terminal supports (32A single phase / three phase), it will limit the maximum load capacity.

Charging cable

The capacity of the charging cable may limit the charging speed if its rated current is lower than other factors mentioned in this list. There are different versions, ranging from 16A single phase to 32A three phase.

On-board vehicle charger

The efficiency and size of the on-board charger in your car has the final say on vehicle charging speed. The most common sizes of on-board chargers are between 3.3 kW and 22 kW. The charging cable connects to the on-board charger which then converts the energy to power the vehicle battery.

Other factors may impact charging speed such as outside temperature, battery condition, and power loss during charging.

To obtain the highest possible charging power, the following factors must therefore be taken into account: electrical network, power of the subscribed electricity subscription, circuit breaker rating, type of charging station, charging cable and type of on-board charger of the vehicle.

Zaptec charging stations support charging on TT, TN-S and TNC-S and IT (not applicable for France) 32A installations in single-phase and three-phase.

Eco Fashion

Eco mode uses historical price data from Nord Pool to ensure that charging takes place when electricity is cheaper. Add details of when you usually need to charge your vehicle and how much power you need via the Zaptec app.
Eco mode in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland uses today's prices from Nord Pool instead of historical price data.

If usage patterns deviate from this on some days, you can simply turn off Smart Eco Mode via the Zaptec portal or app and use normal charging mode.

You can control the Eco mode by setting the start time and the minimum energy (kWh) in the Zaptec portal or the Zaptec app.

Eco mode is included in all types of domestic installations, including Zaptec Go installations.