22kW EV Charger Speed Explained
When it comes to charging speeds, there are many different factors that actually affect the true speed. BUT, AC chargers do come with different outputs, including 3kW, 7kW, 11kW and 22kW.
The performance of a charger depends on power output, the size of the battery, and the vehicle’s onboard charging capability. A 22kW EV charger sits at the high end of AC charging, offering the potential for faster charge sessions than typical residential equipment. However, this level of power output does require three phase supply, which is extremely uncommon for residential properties in the UK. This means 22kW chargers are usually found in supermarkets or businesses that provide workplace charging, and not homes where 7kW is the standard.
This guide explores how many miles of range per hour can be added, how charge time compares with a 7kW charger, and what factors influence how quickly electric vehicles reach a fully charged state.
What Is a 22kW EV Charger?
A 22kW EV charger is an AC charging solution capable of delivering higher power output than common domestic systems. These chargers are often found in commercial charging stations or workplace charging points and require three-phase electrical supply.
While they enable faster charge capability, actual performance depends on whether the vehicle can accept that level of input. Some vehicles limit intake rates, meaning charging speed may be capped below the charger’s potential output.
Where 22kW Fits in Charging Speed Categories
Electric car charging is commonly grouped by power levels:
- Lower power home EV charger setups such as a 7kW charger
- Mid-range high-power AC chargers including 22kW
- High-output rapid charging DC systems
DC Rapid charging operates at significantly higher power levels than AC charging, as they deliver power differently to AC. So with normal AC charging the car converts the power itself (making it slower), while DC fast chargers convert it at the station and send power straight to the battery, which makes charging much quicker. DC charging is usually reserved for public charging stations, offering shorter hours to charge when travelling long distance.
| Charger Type | Typical Use | Relative Speed |
| 7kW charger | Charger at home / charge overnight | Standard |
| 22kW EV charger | Commercial charging points | Faster charge |
| DC Rapid charging | Motorway charging stations | Fastest |
Miles of Range Per Hour for 22kW Charging
The aim of charging is obviously miles of range per hour rather than raw electrical output for most.
While a 22 kW EV charger can add range faster than lower-power alternatives, the real-world result depends on vehicle efficiency and onboard charging limits. Some vehicles with lower acceptance rates may see only modest improvements, whereas models capable of higher AC input, such as certain Tesla vehicles, benefit more. Compact cars like the Nissan Leaf can also be restricted by their onboard systems. In practice, charging performance always varies according to charging conditions and battery characteristics.
Estimated Tesla Charging Speed Comparison (AC Home Charging)
Approximate miles of range added per hour, real-world results vary by temperature, battery level, and specific model, but these figures reflect typical UK efficiency of ~3.8–4.2 miles per kWh.
|
Charger Power |
Typical Supply |
Approx. Range Added per Hour |
What It Feels Like in Practice |
|
3 kW |
3-pin socket / granny charger |
~10–13 miles/hour |
Emergency or occasional top-ups only |
|
7 kW |
Standard single-phase home charger |
~25–30 miles/hour |
Overnight charging for most drivers |
|
22 kW |
Three-phase supply (limited Tesla AC acceptance) |
~45–55 miles/hour* |
Fast home/workplace charging if supported |
*Most new Tesla models in the UK accept 11 kW AC maximum, so even on a 22 kW charger they typically charge at about ~45–50 miles/hour, not the full theoretical rate.
Battery Size and Charge Time
The size of the battery is one of the biggest factors determining how long electric car charging takes. Larger capacity vehicles require longer hours to charge regardless of charger capability.
Even with higher power output, charge time increases proportionally with battery capacity, meaning a balance between charging speed and vehicle efficiency determines total session duration.
Factors Affecting Charge Time
|
Factor |
Impact |
|
Size of the battery |
Larger batteries increase hours to charge |
|
Power output |
Higher input reduces time |
|
Charging speed acceptance |
Vehicle limit determines real rate |
|
State of charge |
Final percentage slows |
Charging Overnight vs Faster Charging
Many drivers charge overnight using a home EV charger, allowing vehicles to reach fully charged status without requiring rapid charging infrastructure.
Higher output equipment such as a 22kW EV charger can reduce daytime charge sessions when available, but domestic infrastructure often prioritises convenience over maximum power output.
Speak to Pro EV About Choosing the Right Charger
Choosing the right EV charger means understanding your vehicle’s capabilities, your property’s electrical capacity, and how you typically charge. Whether you’re comparing a 7 kW unit, assessing the suitability of a 22 kW charger, or planning a long-term home charging strategy, professional guidance helps achieve the best outcome. We support our customers by evaluating charger compatibility, installation requirements, smart charging optimisation, and future scalability. If you’re considering upgrading your home charging or exploring higher-output solutions, the team can provide tailored advice to suit your needs.
Still have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
How many miles of range per hour can a 22kW charger provide?
Miles of range per hour depends on vehicle acceptance rate and efficiency. Some electric vehicles benefit significantly from faster charge capability, while others are limited by onboard hardware.
Does every vehicle charge faster on a 22kW charger?
No, charging speed is restricted by vehicle design. A Nissan Leaf may not utilise full output, while certain Tesla models can take greater advantage of increased power.
Is a 22kW EV charger suitable for charging at home?
Charging at home typically relies on lower-power installations. A 22kW system may require upgraded electrical supply, so suitability depends on property infrastructure.
What affects hours to charge the most?
The size of the battery, charger power output, vehicle acceptance limits, and starting charge level all influence total charge time.
Is rapid charging the same as 22kW charging?
No, rapid charging refers to higher-output DC charging stations that deliver significantly faster energy transfer than AC-based systems.
