Volkswagen EV Chargers and Home Charging
Volkswagen’s electric range has grown significantly with the ID series. The plug-in hybrid versions of familiar models such as the Golf and Tiguan provide another option for drivers who want to charge at home. Current Volkswagen electric models in the UK include the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7 and ID.7 Tourer. The plug-in hybrid range includes models such as the Golf eHybrid and GTE, Tiguan eHybrid, Passat eHybrid and Tayron eHybrid. Model availability and specifications can change, so it is important to check the charging requirements of your particular Volkswagen.
Which charger does a Volkswagen need?
Volkswagen electric cars use a Type 2 connection for AC charging at home and compatible public charging points. For DC rapid charging, the ID. range uses CCS connections. The exact charging speed depends on the individual vehicle, battery and charging equipment.
A home wallbox is Volkswagen’s preferred approach for convenient regular charging. A home EV charger wallbox is faster and smarter than using a standard three-pin plug and can allow charging to be scheduled around cheaper electricity tariffs. Volkswagen currently works with Ohme as its home-charging partner, offering 7.4kW home chargers with Type 2 compatibility.
A standard household socket can also be used for occasional, slower charging. Volkswagen states that charging an ID. from a three-pin socket typically provides around 2.3kW, so it can take considerably longer than using a dedicated wallbox.
How quickly can a Volkswagen charge at home?
Charging times vary between Volkswagen models. The ID.7, for example, can accept up to 11kW of AC charging, with Volkswagen quoting around eight hours for a full charge on the 77kWh version. The 86kWh version takes around nine hours using an 11kW AC supply.
A 7kW home charger remains a practical choice for many UK Volkswagen owners. But installing a higher rated charger does not necessarily mean the car will charge at that rate. The vehicle’s onboard AC charging capability determines how much power it can accept.
For example, Volkswagen’s ID.7 Tourer is supplied with a Mode 3 Type 2 charging cable capable of 7.2kW on single-phase charging or 11kW on three-phase charging. Always check the specification of your individual model before choosing a charger or cable.
Charging a Volkswagen plug-in hybrid at home
Volkswagen plug-in hybrids can be charged in much the same way as an electric car. Volkswagen recommends a home wallbox for convenient charging, although a standard household socket can also be used where appropriate. Plug-in hybrids have smaller batteries than fully electric vehicles, so they generally require less time to recharge.
Charging Volkswagen at Public Stations
The ultra-rapid chargers can help you top up your EV in 20-40 minutes during long runs. But choosing the right charging cable and equipment is important when charging at public EV charging stations. Compatibility depends on the exact Volkswagen model and its charging specification, so check the vehicle handbook or manufacturer's specifications before purchasing.
FAQs
Can I charge a Volkswagen at home?
Yes. You can charge Volkswagen electric cars and plug-in hybrids at home. A dedicated wallbox is the more convenient option for regular charging while a standard three pin household socket can be used for slower, occasional top-ups.
What type of charger does a Volkswagen EV use?
Volkswagen ID. electric cars use a Type 2 connection for AC charging and a CCS connection for DC rapid charging. The maximum charging speed varies by model and specification.
Can I use a 7kW home charger with a Volkswagen?
Yes. A compatible 7kW home charger can be used with Volkswagen electric and plug-in hybrid models. The actual charging speed will depend on the vehicle’s onboard charger, as well as the power available from the home charging installation.
How long does it take to charge a Volkswagen ID.7 at home?
The charging time depends on the battery version and charger output. Volkswagen quotes around eight hours to charge the 77kWh ID.7 from empty to full using an 11kW AC charger. The 86kWh version takes around nine hours under the same conditions.
Can I charge a Volkswagen from a three-pin plug?
Yes. Volkswagen states that its ID. models can be charged using a standard three-pin socket, typically at around 2.3kW. This is considerably slower than using a dedicated home charger, so it is generally more suitable for occasional top-ups.
Does the Volkswagen ID.4 use a Type 2 connector?
Yes. The Volkswagen ID.4 uses a Type 2 connection for AC charging. For DC rapid charging, it uses the CCS standard. Charging speeds depend on the particular ID.4 version and the charging point being used.
Can I use the same home charger for a Volkswagen EV and plug-in hybrid?
A compatible home charger can be used with both Volkswagen electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Volkswagen's Ohme ePod, for example, is listed as compatible with Volkswagen ID. and plug-in hybrid vehicles. However, charging speeds and cable requirements can vary between models, so compatibility should always be checked for the specific vehicle.
Does the Volkswagen ID.7 support 11kW charging?
Yes. Volkswagen lists 11kW AC charging capability for the ID.7. Depending on the battery version, Volkswagen quotes approximately eight to nine hours for a full AC charge at 11kW.
