Charger types and which to choose
Standard 7kW (single-phase) — adds ~25 miles range per hour, sufficient for most overnight use. £900–£1,400 installed. 22kW (three-phase) — adds ~80 miles per hour, only available if your home has 3-phase supply (rare in London terraces); £1,400–£2,200. Tethered (cable attached) — convenient daily, but cable wear; £100–£200 more. Untethered (socket only) — neater appearance, use your own cable; cheapest. Smart chargers (Zappi, Ohme, Wallbox Pulsar, Pod Point) integrate with off-peak tariffs and solar PV.
Electrical installation considerations
Dedicated 32A or 40A circuit from consumer unit to charger location via 6mm² T&E (longer runs need 10mm²). RCD Type A or B (manufacturer specific) required. Earth fault protection: most modern chargers integrate PEN fault protection (no separate earth rod needed). Older consumer units often need upgrade — RCBO board or full RCD-protected board (£400–£900 fitted). Maximum demand check — average London home supply 60–80A; if existing load plus charger exceeds, load management or supply upgrade needed.
Flat installation complexity
Flat owners face extra hurdles: freeholder consent required (Licence to Alter); off-street parking ownership/permission; cable route from consumer unit to bay (often needs distribution board sub-feed or even DNO supply upgrade); shared bay considerations. OZEV grant (£350) covers some cost. Many London new-build flats now have EV-ready provision pre-installed. Older blocks may need DNO main fuse upgrade (£0 cost but 8–14 weeks lead time).
