A guide to everything you need to know about EV charging

Charging an electric vehicle (EV) has become a natural part of everyday life for many car owners. However, there are still a few important things to keep in mind, especially if you’re new to the world of electric driving. This guide provides an introduction to how EV charging works, the different types of charging solutions available, and how to charge safely and conveniently—both at home and on the road.

What is EV charging and why is it important?

EV charging means supplying an electric or hybrid vehicle with energy by connecting it to an external charging point. Without access to reliable charging, electric cars lose much of their practical usability. Moreover, EV charging offers several environmental advantages compared with refueling petrol or diesel vehicles, as electric cars generate lower carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable transport sector.
Charging typically takes place through two main types:

AC charging (alternating current) – primarily used for home or workplace charging
DC charging (direct current) – used at fast-charging stations where vehicles need to charge quickly and efficiently

Different types of chargers

There are several types of EV chargers, and the right choice depends mainly on where you charge and how quickly you want to fill the battery. GARO offers a wide range of solutions tailored to different needs—from home charging to public fast chargers.
For a safe and easy home-charging experience, GARO Entity Home or GARO Entity Compact are ideal choices. For housing cooperatives or businesses, options such as GARO Entity Pro, LS4, or Twin+ are well suited. If you’re looking for a powerful fast-charging solution, our RAPID series is perfect for destinations and public areas requiring high power and availability.

Safety aspects of EV charging

Safety is one of the most important aspects of EV charging. It is essential that chargers and charging stations meet strict safety standards and are equipped with proper protective features.
While the home charging box has become a natural part of life for EV owners, this wasn’t always the case. Before industry standards and regulations were established, vehicles were often charged via ordinary wall sockets. However, standard household outlets and wiring are not designed for the high loads that occur during EV charging and may even pose a fire risk.

By using certified equipment, ensuring installation by a qualified electrician, and selecting a charging solution designed specifically for EVs, you minimize the risk of overheating or electrical faults.

Standards and certifications for wallboxes

Charging connectors – what do I need to know?

When charging your EV, it’s important to know which connector type your vehicle uses. In Europe, Type 2 is the standard for regular (AC) charging, while CCS (Combined Charging System) is the most common for fast (DC) charging.
Most public charging stations today feature either a fixed CCS cable or an outlet where you can connect your own Type 2 cable. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep your own cable in the car—especially when charging at AC stations without a fixed cable.

Where can I charge publicly?

Sweden has a rapidly growing network of public charging stations. You’ll often find charging points along major roads and highways, at fuel stations, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, and parking garages. There are several smart apps that help you plan your charging, locate nearby stations, and view real-time information on availability, pricing, and charging speed.
Popular apps include: Chargefinder, PlugShare, Mer Connect, InCharge, and Chargemap.

Tips for convenient charging on the road

Travelling by electric car is both environmentally friendly and comfortable—especially with some planning. Here are a few tips to make charging easier along your journey:

Plan your route and charging stops in advance using dedicated apps
Bring an extra charging cable—not all public chargers have fixed cables
Charge up to 80% – charging slows down beyond that point and preserves battery health
Consider weather and driving style – cold weather and high speeds reduce range
Be considerate of other EV drivers – move your car once charging is complete

FAQ – frequently asked questions

Charging frequency and duration depend on several factors, primarily your driving distance, vehicle model, and driving habits. Many drivers charge overnight at home, while others may only charge a few times per week. A full home charge typically takes between 6–10 hours, depending on battery capacity and charger power. Fast charging on the road can provide up to 80% charge in about 30 minutes.

Most modern EVs in Europe use the Type 2 connector for AC charging and CCS for fast DC charging. Check your vehicle’s manual for compatibility details.

The cost of charging at home depends on your electricity contract. On average, it costs about SEK 2–3 per 10 km, which is significantly cheaper than refueling with petrol or diesel. To save money, consider charging at night when electricity prices are usually lower.
With the GARO Entity charging box, you can easily schedule charging sessions through our app to take advantage of the lowest hourly rates—provided your electricity supplier offers a time-based pricing plan.
Public charging stations vary in pricing—some charge per kWh, others per minute, or a combination. Prices typically range between SEK 3–9 per kWh, depending on speed, time of day, and operator.

We strongly advise against charging your car from a regular wall socket. Unlike a dedicated charging box or station, wall outlets are not built to handle high, continuous loads over long periods. Charging through a standard socket can cause overheating or even fire.
Even the Swedish Electrical Safety Agency discourages regular charging via wall sockets. We always recommend using a permanently installed charging box for safe and reliable charging.
Why should you use a wallbox rather than a wall socket for charging? - GARO

Load balancing ensures that EV charging does not overload your home’s electrical system. It automatically adjusts charging power based on overall household electricity use, minimizing the risk of blown fuses and ensuring both safety and efficiency.

That depends on your needs, but GARO Entity Home and GARO Entity Compact are two smart, safe, and easy-to-use options for home charging—developed for Nordic conditions.
Electric car charging home - GARO

AC charging (alternating current) is mainly used at home and in public chargers up to around 22 kW. DC charging (direct current) is fast charging, typically found along major roads, offering 150–350 kW depending on the vehicle and charger type.

Yes! Private individuals in Sweden can receive a 50% tax reduction on both the charger and installation through the “Green Technology” tax incentive.
Grön teknik - GARO

Yes. GARO’s EV chargers are designed to withstand Nordic weather conditions. It’s completely safe to charge outdoors in rain or snow—as long as you use an approved charging box or station.

In most parts of Europe, Type 2 and CCS are standard, so adapters are rarely needed. However, it’s still smart to bring your own charging cable and check which connectors are used in the country you’re visiting.