Portable EV Chargers: Everything You Need to Know

Connects the charger to a standard power outlet.

Often equipped with a color LCD screen displaying charging information and buttons to adjust current levels to suit various charging needs.

Typically 16 feet long, allowing flexibility in reaching your EV.

Unlike stationary chargers, portable chargers are lightweight, compact, and designed for easy transport, making them a convenient option for EV drivers on the move. However, it’s important to note that portable EV chargers generally do not provide a full battery recharge but deliver enough power to help the vehicle reach the nearest charging station.

Portable EV chargers operate by drawing electricity from a standard wall outlet or a higher voltage source, depending on the charger’s design. The control box ensures a safe and consistent flow of power to the EV, adapting to different voltage levels and charging requirements.

Much like a power bank for personal devices, these chargers are ideal for emergency situations or areas with limited charging infrastructure. For instance, if your EV’s battery is running low and a public charging station is out of reach, a portable charger can provide the additional range needed to continue your journey.

Portable EV chargers, also known as mobile electric car chargers, are available in many regions, including the UK. However, they are relatively rare and less technologically advanced compared to fixed charging stations.

Typically, the term "portable EV charger" refers to devices like charging banks or compact EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) units that drivers can carry anywhere. A notable example is the Blink Portable EV Charger, a commercial product designed to provide mobile charging solutions.

There’s also some confusion regarding the terminology, as certain slow chargers, such as 3-pin plug chargers (often referred to as "granny chargers"), are marketed as portable chargers. These chargers plug into a standard household outlet and are intended for slower, overnight charging. For example, the MG ZS EV 3-pin plug charger is branded as a "portable charger," adding to the misunderstanding.

When it comes to Tesla, many EV enthusiasts wonder if the company offers a portable charger for its vehicles. While Tesla provides several home and public charging solutions, their branded "portable charger" is actually a device designed to wirelessly charge smartphones—not EVs.

However, Tesla does offer mobile charging cables compatible with standard outlets, enabling drivers to charge their vehicles anywhere a suitable power source is available. These cables are lightweight and portable but are not the same as standalone portable EVSE units designed for emergencies.

Portable EV chargers offer several key advantages:

Provides a temporary power boost to ensure you can reach the nearest public charging station.

Compact and lightweight design makes them easy to store and transport.

Can be used with standard power outlets, eliminating the need for specialized charging infrastructure.

Many models allow users to adjust current settings to match their charging requirements.

While portable chargers are a valuable tool for EV drivers, they also come with some limitations:

Most portable chargers do not provide a full recharge but only enough energy to extend your range temporarily.

Compared to Level 2 or DC fast chargers, portable chargers are significantly slower.

Requires access to a power outlet, which may not always be available in remote areas.

High-quality portable chargers can be expensive and are less common than traditional charging solutions.

Home chargers, such as wall-mounted Level 2 chargers, are faster and more reliable for daily use. They offer higher power output and faster charging times, making them a preferred option for regular EV users.

Public stations, especially DC fast chargers, provide rapid charging in as little as 30 minutes. These are ideal for long-distance travel but require EV-compatible connectors and are less portable.

Portable chargers fill the gap between stationary and public charging options. While not as fast as dedicated charging stations, they provide a level of convenience and peace of mind for emergency situations.

As the EV market expands, portable charging technology is expected to evolve rapidly. Innovations such as higher-capacity portable batteries, solar-powered chargers, and faster charging speeds could make portable EV chargers a mainstream solution for everyday use.

Additionally, advancements in energy storage and wireless charging technology may enable more efficient and versatile portable charging options, further enhancing their practicality and appeal.

Portable EV chargers offer a practical, emergency solution for electric vehicle drivers, providing a convenient way to recharge when traditional options are unavailable. While they may not replace fixed charging stations or public fast chargers, portable chargers are a valuable tool for extending range and ensuring peace of mind on the road.

As technology advances, these devices will likely become more powerful, efficient, and accessible, contributing to the broader adoption of electric vehicles worldwide. For now, they serve as a testament to the flexibility and ingenuity shaping the future of EV charging solutions.