Charge Unlimited 101: EV Charging for Dummies

Intro: Why This Guide?

EV charging in Australia can feel like a absolute minefield - especially if you’re new to the game. Terms like Type 2, CCS2, kilowatts, and amps sound like a Year 12 physics lecture, right? But it doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we’re stripping it back to basics: what you really need to know about EV charging and why a portable EV charger like zuup Charge is a must-have for everyday Aussie EV drivers.

Let’s get stuck in.

1. What’s a Portable EV Charger?

Think of it like the power cord for your laptop or mobile device. A portable EV charger gives you the freedom to plug into any standard power outlet - no need to search for public charging stations or get locked into a fixed home charger. Whether you’re at home, on the road, or staying somewhere without dedicated EV charging, this solution is built for flexibility.

2. How Do Portable EV Chargers Work?

It’s straightforward:

1. Plug it into a power source – Most portable chargers (like zuup Charge) connect to a standard 10A or 15A household outlet. For those who need a bit more juice, models like the zuup Charge Flex can plug into 32A sockets for faster charging.
2. Connect it to your car – The charger features a Type 2 plug, which is standard for most EVs in Australia.
3. Charging begins – Your EV communicates with the charger, drawing power as needed. Keep tabs on everything via the zuup Charge App, which lets you monitor your charging status remotely.
   
   

3. Where Can You Use a Portable EV Charger?

Pretty much anywhere there’s power:

• At home: Ideal if you don’t have a wall-mounted charger, rent your home or just need a backup.
• At work: Plug into a power outlet and charge while you’re on the clock.
• On the road: Whether you’re visiting family, crashing at a mate’s, or staying at your fave Airbnb down on the Mornington Peninsula - having a portable EV charger means you’re never left high and dry.
• Camping & road trips: Got access to a powered site or a caravan 15A socket? You’ve got a charging solution.
  
  

4. How Long Does Charging Take?

Charging speed depends on:

• The charger’s power output: A 10A charger (~2.2kW) will add roughly 10-15km of range per hour, while a 15A charger (~3.5kW) bumps that up to about 20km per hour.
• Your EV’s onboard charger: Different EV models in Australia handle charging speeds differently.
• Battery capacity: Naturally, larger batteries take longer to charge.

For example, charging a KIA EV6 overnight (~10 hours) with a zuup Charge 15A unit could add over 200km of range - more than enough for most daily needs.

5. Why Choose Portable Over a Fixed Home Charger?

Fixed chargers are great, but they come with some drawbacks:

• High installation costs: A wall-mounted charger plus installation can set you back $2,000+.
• Lack of flexibility: You can’t take it with you when you move or travel.
• Professional setup required: Portable chargers are plug-and-play - no electrician needed.

A zuup Charge portable charger delivers freedom, flexibility, and hassle-free EV charging anywhere in Australia.

6. What Should You Look for in a Portable EV Charger?

Not all chargers are built the same. Focus on:

• Power output: Look for at least 15A (3.5kW) for decent charging speeds.
• Build quality: Durable, weather-resistant materials with robust connectors.
• Safety features: Surge protection, overheating shutdown, and a Residual Current Device (RCD) – basically, a safety switch that cuts the power if there's a fault, keeping you and your kit safe..
• Cable length: A 5m cable works well, though a 6m cable which comes standard on all zuup Charge will ensure you're never left short.
• Smart connectivity: An app for remotely monitoring charging status like the zuup Charge App.
  
  

Wrap-Up: Why zuup Charge?

In the end, charging your EV should be as simple as plugging in your phone. With zuup Charge, you get:

1. A reliable, portable EV charger that works anywhere in Australia.
2. No installation costs - just plug in and charge.
3. The flexibility to take your charger wherever you go.
4. App connectivity with the zuup Charge App.

So whether you're a new EV owner or just keen for a hassle-free charging solution, zuup Charge has you covered. 

Charge on, legends! ✌️

Shop zuup Charge

Author: James Kleine | zuup Founder / EV enthusiast (and petrol-head at heart).