Home charging is the foundation of daily EV operation. You have two options: charge from a regular socket or invest in a wallbox. Both have their place — it depends on your needs and budget.
Charging from a regular socket (230V / 10A)
Every EV comes with a mobile charging cable (ICCB) that plugs into a standard socket. Power is limited to 2.3 kW (230V × 10A). You gain approximately 12 km of range per hour. A full charge of a 77 kWh battery takes over 30 hours. This option is suitable as a backup or for plug-in hybrids with small batteries.
Advantages
No additional investment. Works anywhere with a socket. Good as an emergency solution.
Disadvantages
Very slow charging. The socket can overheat during extended loads — fire risk with older wiring. Cannot fully utilize two-tariff rates (may not charge completely during off-peak window).
Wallbox (7–22 kW)
A wallbox is a dedicated home charging station. Standard power is 7.4 kW (single-phase) or 11–22 kW (three-phase). You gain 40–120 km of range per hour depending on power. Full Enyaq charge with an 11 kW wallbox takes 7–8 hours — fully charged overnight.
Advantages
3–10× faster than a socket. Safe (integrated protection, type B RCD). Smart features — charging scheduling, solar integration, consumption monitoring. Maximum utilization of off-peak tariff.
Disadvantages
Investment of €600–1,800 (wallbox + installation). Requires an electrician for installation. In apartment buildings, you need building management approval.
Installation costs
The wallbox itself costs €400–1,200 depending on brand and features (Wallbox Pulsar Plus, ABB Terra, Easee One). Electrician installation costs €200–600 depending on complexity (distance to distribution board, need for supply upgrade). Total: €600–1,800. Payback at 1,000 km/month: 6–12 months compared to public charging.
Recommendation
If you drive daily and have your own garage or parking space — invest in a wallbox. The comfort difference is huge. For an 11 kW wallbox, you need a three-phase supply (most houses have one). In apartment buildings, consider a single-phase 7.4 kW wallbox — lower wiring requirements and easier approval.