Wallbox Buying Guide
This translation was generated automatically.
This article is an incomplete overview of recommended, affordable wallboxes and offers. It will be updated from time to time. (As of April 2019.)
Update, September 2019: VW is about to release an interesting charging unit.
A wallbox is little more than a glorified three-phase power outlet, with a bit of extra protection and the simplest possible communication with the car. There’s very little reason for some models to cost well over a thousand euros.
New wallbox models are slowly appearing with more integrated features and safety components that previously had to be installed separately in the fuse box, as well as features for which vendors used to charge unjustifiably high premiums.
The must-have checklist:
- Permanently attached cable (otherwise you pay extra for the cable); bonus points for different cable lengths.
- Integrated residual-current device (otherwise extra cost in the fuse box).
- Wall mounting with integrated cable winding or holder.
- Sold freely, without being tied to a particular vehicle.
- Three-phase charging at no extra cost.
- Reputable manufacturer.
- Net price under €500.
Optional, depending on your needs:
- Internet of Things connectivity.
- Load management.
- Locking with a key, RFID, etc.
- Portable unit with optional plug set.
I haven’t tested them, but these two current models would be high on my wish list:
Webasto Pure Home
Webasto (the parking-heater company) announced the unit a long time ago and finally shipped it. The successor model with more features and the smaller portable unit have since disappeared from the website without comment.
Current price: about €570 including tax.
If you’re unsure whether your electrical installation is suitable, you can currently book a Webasto electrician for an inspection for €100.
Heidelberg Home Eco
I came across Heidelberg (the printing-press company!) today thanks to a tip from Stefan. In addition to the must-have features, the Heidelberg unit has a very nice one: a freely assignable terminal for a key switch or Arduino to lock and unlock charging.
It costs about €500 including tax. (Buy it on amazon.de, affiliate link.)
Portable charger
Another alternative for many garage users is a simple 10/13 A portable charger (ICCB), often included with the car or sold as an option. You can almost always charge enough overnight for the next day.
Pro tip: ask an electrician to replace the Schuko plug with a blue CEE camping connector, and the garage’s Schuko outlet with a blue socket. The contacts are more robust, more waterproof, and suitable for continuous loads. Or just buy the 16 A Mennekes portable charger with a blue plug. I’ve been using this device for almost a year now without any problems.
More detailed information here.
Offers
The retailer Energielösung currently offers €50 off with the code WALLBOX50, including the fixed models above.
They also have a batch of 11 kW Wallbe boxes. They don’t meet the checklist under normal conditions, but with a 40% discount they’re interesting again.