EV Charging Glossary

What Are AC and DC Charging?

AC and DC charging differ in where the current conversion takes place. In AC charging the station delivers the alternating current from the grid to the vehicle, and the vehicle's onboard charger converts it into the direct current the battery needs (typically 7.4–22 kW). In DC fast charging the conversion is done by a powerful converter inside the station and direct current is delivered straight to the battery; because the vehicle's small onboard charger is bypassed, much higher power (50 kW and above) is possible. For this reason AC charging suits scenarios that last for hours such as home, workplace and overnight parking, while DC fast charging suits situations such as roadside and fleet use where range must be added within minutes. Bemis offers both its in-house manufactured AC wallbox devices and its CCS2-standard BEVDC series DC fast chargers together. As a concrete comparison, an 11 kW AC wallbox at home fills the car over several hours, while a BEVDC series DC unit (40–200 kW) adds the same range far more quickly at the roadside. That is why, for most users, the practical setup is a combination of AC home charging for daily use and DC fast charging on long trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between AC and DC charging?

The difference is where the current is converted. In AC charging the vehicle's onboard charger converts the current (typically 7.4–22 kW); in DC fast charging a converter inside the station does it and direct current is delivered straight to the battery, allowing much higher power (50 kW and above). AC suits hours-long home/workplace charging, DC suits fast roadside top-ups.

Which is better for home use, AC or DC?

AC charging is the right choice for the home. A 7.4–11 kW AC wallbox fills most cars overnight, is far more affordable than a DC unit, and works with a standard electrical supply. DC fast charging requires a high-power three-phase infrastructure and is intended for public and fleet use, not the home.

Does Bemis offer both AC and DC chargers?

Yes. Bemis offers both its in-house manufactured AC wallbox devices and its CCS2-standard BEVDC series DC fast chargers (40–200 kW). For most users the practical setup is AC home charging for daily use combined with DC fast charging on long trips.