RFQs for Level 2 EV Chargers

As the electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, the focus often shifts towards the high-speed allure of DC fast charging. However, Level 2 chargers play a critical role in the charging infrastructure, particularly for workplace and fleet applications. When drafting a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for Level 2 chargers, it’s essential to consider several key factors to ensure you select the right solution for your needs.

1. Physical Characteristics

The physical characteristics of the charger are fundamental to your decision-making process. Key aspects to evaluate include:

• Size and Shape:
  • Determine whether the charger fits within your intended space. Consider factors like accessibility and aesthetics, particularly in customer-facing environments.
• Durability:
  • Assess the materials used in the charger’s construction. A robust, weather-resistant design may be crucial if the charger will be installed outdoors.
• NEMA Rating:
  • The NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) rating indicates the enclosure’s suitability for various environmental conditions. Ensure the rating aligns with your installation location, whether indoors, outdoors, or in a commercial setting. NEMA 3R or 4 are considered a minimum requirement, and if your area is prone to salt, from snow clearing operations, or proximity to salt water, consider the quality of exposed metal surfaces.
• Mounting Options:
  • Review the available mounting options, including wall-mounted and pedestal styles. Choose a solution that best fits your space and usage requirements.
• Cable Management:
  • Effective cable management features can reduce wear and tear and improve user experience. Look for chargers with integrated cable holders or retractable cables. Also consider that charging cables are damaged more often than the physical charger itself, and easy cable replacement should be considered.

2. Amperage

The amperage rating of the charger directly affects charging speed. Higher amperage units can provide faster charging times, which is particularly beneficial in high-traffic locations. Evaluate your specific needs based on the typical dwell time of vehicles at your charging stations and the expected power demand.

3. Connectivity Options

Connectivity is crucial for modern EV chargers. Consider the following options:

• LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet:
  • Assess which connectivity methods are most suitable for your installation. LTE may provide reliable remote monitoring, while WiFi can facilitate easier local management.
• Network Reliability:
  • Ensure that the chosen connectivity option offers consistent performance and aligns with your data usage requirements.

4. Authentication Methods

Authentication is vital for controlling access to your chargers. Consider the following options:

• Local vs. OCPP Authentication:
  • Determine whether authentication will be handled locally or via the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). OCPP can offer broader compatibility and flexibility across various networks.
• Authentication Components:
  • Explore the different components available, such as RFID cards for user identification, touchscreen interfaces for PIN entry, and the potential for Plug and Charge capabilities for seamless user experience.

5. OCPP Implementation

OCPP is a critical protocol for ensuring interoperability among different charger brands and networks. Keep these points in mind:

• Implementation Quality:
  • Not all OCPP implementations are equal. Research the specific networks that work well with the charger you’re considering.
• Network Setup Flexibility:
  • Assess how easy it is to set up and modify the network configurations. Ensure you have the capability to adapt if your preferred vendor changes in the future.

6. Other Interfaces

The user interface is an important aspect of Level 2 chargers:

• Screen and Controls:
  • Consider whether the charger has an onboard screen that provides essential information and controls for users. This can enhance usability and provide real-time feedback and increasingly, this is a required feature for payment applications.
• Mobile App Integration:
  • Investigate if there’s a dedicated app for users and administrators, facilitating remote management and monitoring of charging sessions.
• Remote Troubleshooting:
  • Evaluate whether the charger allows for remote diagnostics, reducing the need for onsite visits to address minor issues.

7. Diagnostic Insight and Settings

Having access to diagnostic insights can significantly enhance your management capabilities:

• Level of Insight:
  • Consider what diagnostic data is available and how it can be accessed. This can include metrics like energy consumption, session duration, and fault codes.
• Settings Management:
  • Explore how easy it is to change settings. Can adjustments be made remotely, or are you required to be onsite?
• System Integration:
  • Assess the charger’s capability to connect with other systems, such as credit reporting services, facility management tools, and telematics platforms, to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

8. Program Compliance and Advanced Features

When evaluating Level 2 chargers, consider the following compliance and features:

• Program Compliance:
  • Ensure that the chargers meet any relevant industry standards and regulations, which can vary by region.
• Advanced Features:
  • Look for chargers that offer advanced functionalities such as load balancing, which can optimize energy distribution across multiple charging stations. This is particularly useful in environments with limited electrical capacity.

When preparing an RFQ for Level 2 chargers, a thorough understanding of the various factors at play is essential for making an informed decision. By considering physical characteristics, amperage, connectivity, authentication methods, OCPP implementation, user interfaces, diagnostic capabilities, and advanced features, you can select a solution that meets your operational needs and enhances the EV charging experience. In a world where DC fast charging may dominate the conversation, Level 2 chargers remain a vital component of a comprehensive EV charging strategy.