Understanding the Algorithms of EV Charging for Your Electric Vehicle

When most people hear the word algorithms, they immediately associate it with the internet and web searching. However, when we define an algorithm, it is simply a set of rules that determines action - and it can be applied appropriately to much more than determining a company’s position on Google or a Facebook scroll.  As we move farther into a society with more and more electric vehicles, it’s important to understand the algorithms of EV charging for your electric vehicle.

Electric vehicle (EV) charging algorithms are the methods used to control the charging of an EV battery. They vary in efficiency, cost, charging time, battery life cycles, and other factors. Therefore, the best algorithm for a particular EV will depend on its specific needs and requirements.

What Are Some of the Popular EV Charging Algorithms?

Constant Current (CC) charging is the simplest and most common EV charging algorithm. It involves charging the battery at a constant current until it reaches its maximum voltage. This algorithm is relatively efficient and inexpensive, but it can take a long time to charge a battery fully.

Constant Voltage (CV) charging is another common EV charging algorithm. It involves charging the battery at a constant voltage until it reaches its maximum current. This algorithm is more efficient than CC charging, but it can take a long time to charge a battery fully.

Adaptive Charging is a more sophisticated EV charging algorithm that can adjust the charging rate based on the battery's state of charge (SoC), temperature, and other factors. This algorithm can help to improve charging efficiency and battery life.

Optimal Power Flow (OPF) charging is a state-of-the-art EV charging algorithm that can optimize the charging of multiple EVs at a charging station. This algorithm can help to reduce peak demand on the grid and improve the overall efficiency of the charging process.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different EV Charging Algorithms

Constant current (CC) charging  

   Advantages:

• Simple and inexpensive
• Efficient

   Disadvantages:

• It can take a long time to charge a battery fully

Constant Voltage (CV) Charging  

   Advantages:

• More efficient than CC charging

• It can charge a battery faster than CC charging

  Disadvantages:

• It can take a long time to charge a battery fully
  
  

Adaptive Charging

   Advantages:

• Can improve charging efficiency and battery life
• Can charge a battery faster than CC or CV charging

  Disadvantages:

• More complex and expensive than CC or CV charging
  
  

Optimal Power Flow (OPF) Charging

   Advantages:

• Can reduce peak demand on the grid
• Can improve the overall efficiency of the charging process

   Disadvantages:

• More complex and expensive than CC, CV, or Adaptive charging
  
  

Various EV charging algorithms are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. The best algorithm for a particular EV will depend on its specific needs and requirements. When choosing an EV charging algorithm, it is important to consider factors such as efficiency, cost, charging time, battery life cycles, and the overall impact on the grid.

Wilcox Electric was voted the Best Electric Company in Washington D.C. 2022, and we look forward to becoming your favorite electrician, too. Our customers depend on our reliable service and our professional work. When you call Wilcox Electric, you can count on the job being done right. Contact us today, and let us install the right EV Charger for you.