The evec VEC03 is a 7.4kW home EV charger designed for Type-2 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids (PHEV). Compact and cost-effective, this tethered charger is excellent for homes with EVs and hybrids. This review dives deep into the features, design, and overall performance of the VEC03.
- Performance & Charging Speed: 8/10 (3.7-7.4kW, good for home use)
- Ease of Use & Smart Features: 8/10 (Smart app, solar integration, load balancing, LED status indicators.)
- Installation & Maintenance: 8/10 (Affordable and compact, easy for standard home installations.)
- Design & Durability: 8/10 (Good durability with IP55 rating, simple design, tethered option.)
Methodology: How Electric Car Guide Rates EV Chargers
evec VEC03 Features At A Glance
| Feature | evec VEC03 Product Spec |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 3.7kW - 7.4kW |
| Connector Type | Type 2 (Tethered, 5m Cable) |
| Smart Charging Protocol | OCPP 1.6J Compliant |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Monta Integration |
| Solar Integration | Yes, with load balancing capabilities |
| Ingress Protection | IP55, Weatherproof and Dustproof |
| Durability | Corrosion-Resistant, Fire Retardant |
| Safety Features | PEN Protection, RCD-30mA Type A, 6mA DC Protection |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to 50°C |
| Certifications | CE and UKCA Approved |
| Dimensions | 320mm x 193mm x 105mm |
| Weight | 5.1kg |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
| Installation | Wall or Post Mount |
- Cheap EV charger installation from just £789.99
Spread the cost with flexible payment options - Order by 12-noon for next-day delivery
With installation arranged at your convenience - Backed by a 3-year warranty and installed in around 4 hours
evec VEC03 Full Review
evec VEC03 Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the evec VEC03 impresses with its sleek, minimalist design. The unit is compact, measuring at 320 x 193 x 105 mm. The tethered unit comes with a 5-meter attached cable, offering just about enough reach.
The charger’s black ABS + PC body is durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions, with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance. It can withstand temperatures ranging from -25°C to 55°C, meaning it will function reliably through all seasons. The build is also corrosion-resistant and fire-retardant.
evec VEC03 Charging Performance
With adjustable power settings ranging from 3.7kW to 7.4kW, the VEC03 offers flexibility. At 7.4kW, it delivers a fast charging experience, ideal for overnight charging and ensuring your EV is fully charged and ready for the next day. The Type-2 charging port is compatible with all UK electric cars.
The VEC03 has a built-in PEN protection and also features over-current and residual current protection, with a built-in RCD (30mA Type A) and 6mA DC leakage detection, ensuring both your vehicle and home are protected during charging.
Smart Charging Features
The evec VEC03 supports OCPP 1.6J protocols. This means users can remotely monitor, schedule, and manage their charging sessions through the evec app, available for both iOS and Android. The app allows users to:
- Set charging schedules during off-peak hours, helping to save money on energy costs.
- Monitor real-time charging status and progress.
- Adjust charging speeds based on your specific needs.
- Receive notifications on charging errors or issues.
evec VEC03 Solar Integration
The VEC03 has solar integration capabilities so you can pair the charger with solar panels to charge your EV.
Monta Program Compatibility
Another good feature is the charger’s inclusion in the Powered by Monta program. This allows charge point owners to share their chargers with other EV owners in their community. The Monta platform enables owners to make money by sharing their chargers, with control over the charging point’s availability, pricing, and access. Monta’s network includes over 200,000 charging points across Europe.
evec VEC03 Installation
The evec VEC03 does not need an earth rod thanks to the built-in PEN protection. Standard installations include a 10m cable and provisions for drilling through external walls and clipping directly to the charger location. The system also supports integration with Wi-Fi to ensure connectivity for remote monitoring. However, the charger does need to be within range of your home’s Wi-Fi network, and signal boosters may be required for some setups.
MORE> Find evec VEC03 Installers
evec VEC03 Pros and Cons
evec VEC03 Pros:
- Affordable: One of the most cost-effective chargers available on the market.
- Compact: Small, sleek design that fits seamlessly on any exterior wall.
- Solar Integration: Supports charging through solar power.
- Smart Charging: Fully integrated with the evec app for remote control, scheduling, and monitoring.
- Load Balancing: Prevents home electrical overloads by adjusting charging power in real-time.
- Durable: Corrosion-resistant, fire-retardant, and weatherproof with an IP55 rating.
evec VEC03 Cons:
- App Performance: Some users reported issues with the app’s responsiveness.
- Limited Cable Length: The tethered unit comes with a standard 5m cable, which may not be long enough for all setups.
The Final Word on the evec VEC03 Charger
We think the evec VEC03 offers real value for money. It’s budget-friendly and feature-packed! With smart charging capabilities and solar integration. While the app could use a few refinements, the VEC03’s overall performance is stong.
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John is the Editor and Spokesperson for Electric Car Guide.
With over 20 years of writing experience, he has written for titles such as City AM, FE News and NerdWallet.com, covering various automotive and personal finance topics.
John’s market commentary has been covered by the likes of The Express, The Independent, Yahoo Finance and The Evening Standard.
