We meet a lot of EV owners in person or over the phone. We learn about the customer's needs, and are better able to suggest a product to suit their situation. We enjoy helping because we know making comparisons between the different EV charging products available on the market can be tricky. We have learnt from our customers that they are not sure if they have to buy a certain brand of charging equipment to suit a certain brand of EV.
We know that EV charging language can be confusing. The wording used in the EV industry varies, which can make the learning curve harder than it needs to be. Terms such as Mode 2, CCS, CHaDemo, Type 2, Type 1, Leads, cables, connectors, handles, plugs...what does it all mean? Once you have determined if your EV has a Type 1 or Type 2 charging port you don't need to worry too much, because in New Zealand most EVs/PHEVs will charge from AC domestic and commercial charging with a Type 2 outlet. DC fast charging stations have tethered cables with a plug to fit your car, using a CCS port in your Type 2, or Chademo charging port in your Type 1. Teslas are a bit different as they also have a Tesla-specific charging port to access Tesla-branded DC super chargers. We can take you through what you need to know.
The shape of the charging port on your EV/PHEV dictates whether or not it is Type 1 or Type 2 EV, not what make of car. For example you will find Nissan Leafs which are either Type 1 or Type 2, the Type 1 Leaf comes from Japan. If you identify which charging port your EV/PHEV has then you know if you need AC charging equipment for a Type 1 or Type 2 car. You may also have a car with a CCS port, which accepts a Type 2 cable. Knowing what you have and what you need makes you better able to make the right choice when researching online. We take calls from customers before they buy online and this can save time and money.
The best thing you can do is read reviews, shop around and do your research. We've found that not all cables available in the NZ market are meeting the expectations of NZ EV drivers. Bear in mind that if you use a non-compliant product or modify EV charging equipment in any way, you put your property or vehicle at risk. We have invested energy in getting information to customers. Obviously we'd like you to buy from us but we want all EV owners to find information and make a decison, independent of car marketing and dealer influence.
As the NZ EV Industry grows the choice will be huge, and this is good for the consumer. Do your research about the company selling EV charging equipment because after-sales support can be non-existent.
An informed customer is better able to make the right decision, and will be happier long term. We aim to make purchasing from us easy. You can always call us 03 365 2666 for friendly customer service and no pressure.