The difference between AC and DC
The electricity stored in an EV battery is direct current (DC). With AC charging, the vehicle's onboard charger converts electricity from alternating current before it reaches the battery. With DC fast charging, the conversion equipment is outside the vehicle, allowing a higher rate in many situations.
AC is commonly suited to longer dwell times. DC is usually chosen when a driver wants to add meaningful range during a shorter stop. The vehicle's own charging limits still apply, so the same station can charge two models at different speeds.
Common connector terms you may see
CCS2 combines an AC connection with additional DC pins and is widely used by electric cars in India. Type 2 generally refers to an AC connector used by many passenger EVs and charging equipment. CHAdeMO is another DC standard that appears on some vehicles and stations. Bharat AC and Bharat DC are Indian charging standards used in parts of the network, particularly for specific vehicle categories.
Connector naming can vary between a vehicle manufacturer, charging operator, and directory. If you are unsure, confirm the plug shape and vehicle compatibility in the vehicle manual or with the operator before you set out.
How to read a power rating
A station's maximum power is normally expressed in kilowatts (kW). It describes the equipment's rated ceiling, not a guaranteed rate for every minute. Charging often tapers as the battery fills, and a site may share power between multiple active ports.
- A higher kW rating can reduce the time needed for a compatible vehicle, but only up to the vehicle's own limit.
- Battery temperature and state of charge can reduce the rate during a session.
- For comparison, also consider access, queue risk, hours, and price—not only kW.
Choosing a station for your situation
For an overnight stop, an AC Type 2 charger at a place where you are already staying may be the most convenient choice. For a highway break, a DC CCS2 station may better match your schedule. For a two-wheeler, check both the connector and whether the site supports the vehicle's charging method rather than assuming a car charger will work.
The ChargeKaro stations directory lets you narrow results by connector, charging type, power, region, and other listed attributes. Open the station page before navigating so you can review all available details together.
Questions to ask when information is incomplete
If a listing does not specify the connector, number of ports, price, or access hours, the safest next step is to verify it. Ask the operator whether the port is compatible, whether an adapter is accepted, how payment works, and whether the site is open to the public. Do not infer these details from the station name alone.