Does a 22 kW charger always deliver 22 kW?
No. 22 kW is the charger's maximum AC rating. Actual charging power is always limited by the lowest-capacity element among the vehicle, charger, cable and electrical installation.
Short answer
If the vehicle's onboard charger supports only 11 kW, it will take roughly 11 kW maximum from a 22 kW AC charger. A single-phase vehicle may be limited to around 3.7 or 7.4 kW. Building load management may temporarily reduce power further to avoid overloading the main fuse.
Four limits that determine real charging power
With AC charging, speed is not determined by the wallbox alone. The vehicle's onboard charger converts AC to DC for the battery, and its rating is often the main limit.
- vehicle onboard charger's maximum AC power
- single- or three-phase charging capability
- charger and cable current limit
- current spare building capacity and load-management limit
Typical AC charging powers
In Europe, common AC rates include 3.7 kW or 7.4 kW single-phase and 11 kW or 22 kW three-phase charging. The vehicle specifications state what AC power the specific model can accept.
Why can power change during a charging session?
A smart charging system can vary charging current according to building demand. When a heat pump, cooker or another large load starts, EV charging can be reduced. When other demand falls, charging power can rise again.
Is a 22 kW charger pointless if the car only takes 11 kW?
Not necessarily. 22 kW capability can provide flexibility for a future vehicle, shared parking or later use. But paying for higher-rated equipment and electrical infrastructure is not always sensible when the site does not need it. The choice should be based on the whole site, not one charger rating.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my car charge at only 11 kW on a 22 kW charger?
The most common reason is an 11 kW onboard charger. Load management, cable current limits or phase configuration can also reduce power.
Is 22 kW AC the same as 22 kW DC?
No. With AC charging, AC-to-DC conversion is performed by the vehicle's onboard charger. With DC charging, conversion is done by the charging station and DC is supplied to the vehicle battery system. They are technically different charging methods.
Is 11 kW often enough at home or in an apartment building?
Often yes, because the vehicle is parked for several hours. The right power depends on daily energy needs, parking duration, the vehicle and spare building capacity.
Need an answer for your site?
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