The little ABC of electromobility for campsites

Published on 19.11.2020

A and B

A for AC charging

We want to get you ready for electric mobility on campsites. It starts with A for AC charging.

When charging electric cars, a distinction is made between AC and DC charging.

AC charging means charging alternating current, which is converted into direct current (DC) by the vehicle. The battery of an electric car can only absorb direct current (DC), but the power grid only provides alternating current (AC). This means that the current in the vehicle is rectified from alternating current to direct current by an on-board transformer.

However, there are charging stations that carry out this conversion, making faster DC charging of the vehicle possible. The latter is therefore also called fast charging.

Both types of charging have their advantages. DC charging is recommended for long journeys without longer stops. This means you can travel long distances, for example on vacation. AC charging can be useful almost anywhere where a longer stay is planned. At the campsite, this could be a visit to a restaurant or outdoor pool or a vacation.

B for BEV

The abbreviation BEV means battery electric car and, like PHEV (plug-in hybrid) and other HEV (hybrid vehicles), belongs to the family of electrically powered vehicles. What are the big differences between these vehicles?

Battery electric vehicles are powered exclusively by electric motors. They store their energy, i.e. electricity, in large batteries on board - they do not require any fossil fuel. Hybrid vehicles have an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. You can drive short distances electrically, or the combustion engine in these vehicles is supported by the electric motor. The electricity required for the electric motor is generated by the combustion engine. Plug-in hybrids drive higher speeds and longer distances purely electrically; the battery can be charged externally via a socket or charging station; the combustion engine only charges the battery if there is not enough energy.

C for CPO

What does CPO actually mean? This is the charge point operator or simply: charging system operator.

But again from the beginning. Who is actually involved in a charging infrastructure?

If public charging stations are to be set up, there are a few points to consider: The technology of a charging station is one thing, the customer administration and management are another. This is where the CPO comes into play, who takes over the operation of the charging station.

The next player in the charging jungle is the energy supplier, who provides the electricity and bills it with the CPO. The charging current comes to the column via the power grid, which is under the care of the grid operator.

If the charging infrastructure is publicly accessible, the CPO will conclude roaming contracts with electromobility service providers to enable charging for customers.

For campsites, collaboration with CPO and EMP is an opportunity to set up public charging stations and thus offer charging options for electromobile travelers and guests. Campsites can thus expand the comprehensive charging network.