Definition: An electric current that flows in one direction, commonly used in batteries and for rapid EV charging.
Examples: DC fast chargers supply direct current to quickly charge electric vehicle batteries.
Glossary Category: Charging & Battery
AC (Alternating Current)
Definition: An electric current that periodically reverses direction, commonly used in residential and commercial power supplies.
Examples: Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers supply AC power to the vehicle’s onboard charger.
Vehicle to Grid (V2G)
Definition: A system where EVs can return stored energy to the electrical grid, aiding in grid stability and energy management.
Examples: Fleet vehicles discharging power to the grid during high-demand periods and recharging during low-demand periods.
Volt (V)
Definition: A unit of measurement for the force of energy required to move one ampere between two points of a conducting wire.
Examples: Higher voltage charging stations push more electrical current through a circuit, which helps boost charging speed.
Vampire Drain
Definition: The gradual loss of battery charge while the vehicle is parked and not in use.
Examples: An EV might lose 1–2% charge per day due to background system activity.
Voltage Converter
Definition: A device that changes the voltage level of electrical power, often used in EVs to step down high-voltage battery power for use by lower-voltage systems.
Examples: Converting 400V battery output to 12V for accessories.
Ultra-Rapid Charging
Definition: Very high-power DC charging (typically above 100 kW), offering extremely fast charging times.
Examples: Tesla Superchargers and other high-capacity chargers delivering up to 350 kW, adding substantial range in 15–20 minutes.
Three-Phase Power
Definition: An AC power system with three alternating voltages, used in commercial and industrial settings for higher power delivery.
Examples: Public charging stations utilizing three-phase power to provide faster Level 2 or DC fast charging.
Top-Up Charging
Definition: Charging the battery partially to maintain a higher state of charge, rather than waiting for it to deplete significantly.
Examples: Plugging in the EV during short stops to add 20–30 miles of range.
Trickle Charging
Definition: Very slow charging, often at power levels below 3 kW, typically used for maintaining battery charge over extended periods.
Examples: Charging an EV overnight using a standard 120V household outlet.
