The Vorsprung DarkKnight EV Charger is a feature-packed budget charger that you can use in both residential and commercial locations. Combining cutting-edge technology with a fairly easy-to-use unit, this charger is an affordable yet high-performing option.
- Fast charging speeds of up to 7.4kW
- User-friendly smart app for scheduling and monitoring
- Built-in PEN protection and advanced safety features
- Compact, stylish design with robust durability
- Easy installation by any qualified electrician
- Performance & Charging Speed: 8/10 – Fast charging with up to 7.4kW, providing 30 miles of range per hour.
- Ease of Use & Smart Features: 9/10 – Smart app for scheduling, monitoring, and load balancing with intuitive controls.
- Installation & Maintenance: 8.5/10 – Easy installation with no need for specialist installers, minimal upkeep required.
- Design & Durability: 9/10 – Sleek, compact design with robust build quality, IP55 rating, and built-in PEN protection.
Methodology: How Electric Car Guide Rates EV Chargers
Vorsprung DarkKnight Features At A Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Output | 7.4 kW |
| Connector Type | Type 2 |
| Input Voltage | 230 V AC ± 10% (1P) |
| Operating Temperature | -30 ºC to 55 ºC |
| Storage Temperature | -40 ºC to 70 ºC |
| Cable Length | 5m |
| Degree of Protection | IK10/IP55 |
| Overvoltage Category | CAT III |
| DC Leakage Protection | Included |
| RCD Protection | Built in Type A RCD + 6mA RDC-DD |
| Display | 4" LCD Screen |
| App Connectivity | Yes, via Wi-Fi |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
| Built-in PEN Protection | Yes |
Vorsprung DarkKnight EV Charger Full Review
How it looks
The Vorsprung DarkKnight has a sleek and compact design. With dimensions of 29 cm by 18 cm by 12 cm, the charger is fairly small and perfect for narrow driveways or tight spaces. The unit is made from industrial-grade ABS, which provides excellent resistance to the elements, and is rated IP55 for water and dust protection.
Its sturdy build ensures that it can withstand low-pressure water jets and dust exposure, while the IK10 impact rating guarantees robust durability.
One of the key design features is the built-in 4-inch LCD display, which provides real-time updates on charging progress, making it easy to check your vehicle’s status at a glance without relying solely on the app.
Vorsprung DarkKnight Features
The Vorsprung DarkKnight is equipped with an array of smart features that make EV charging more convenient and cost-effective. Thanks to the charger’s smart app, users can schedule charging sessions to take advantage of the best EV tariffs, monitor charging activity, and even adjust charging settings remotely. The app is simple to use, giving users control over their charging schedule, with options to set and monitor the battery levels directly from their phone.
In addition to Wi-Fi connectivity, the charger includes built-in load balancing, this means that is will efficiently use available power even when multiple devices are in use. A brilliant feature for households or businesses with high energy demands, as it prevents overloading the system. the app also provides energy consumption data, so you can track usage and make more informed decisions about your energy consumption.
Performance and Charging Capabilities
The DarkKnight delivers up to 7.4kW of power, which is three times faster than charging your EV through a standard 3-pin plug. This means that for a typical 60kWh EV battery, the charger can deliver a full charge in under 9 hours, providing around 30 miles of range per hour of charge.
The charger is compatible with all Type 2 EVs, including plug in hybrids. It operates within a voltage range of 230V AC ±10% with the maximum current output of 32A.
Safety Features
It’s equipped with built-in PEN (Protective Earth Neutral) protection, it eliminates the need for earth rods. This advanced safety feature ensures that your vehicle and home are protected from potential electrical hazards. Additionally, the charger is fitted with DC leakage protection and an RCD (Residual Current Device) to safeguard against electrical faults.
The combination of these safety measures ensures that your vehicle charges without risk of electrical overloads or other system failures.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Unlike some EV chargers that require specialist EV charger installers, the DarkKnight can be installed by any qualified electrician, as they provide full installation and comprehensive setup instructions. This will reduce the overall cost and hassle of installation.
In terms of maintenance, the charger is designed to be highly durable, with minimal upkeep required. The industrial-grade ABS casing and IP55 rating ensure that the unit can withstand harsh weather conditions, while the built-in safety features ensure long-lasting performance. Regular software updates are handled automatically via Wi-Fi, meaning the charger will always have the latest technology and improvements without needing manual intervention.
The Final Word on the Vorsprung DarkKnight EV Charger
The Vorsprung DarkKnight EV Charger is a well-rounded charger that comes at a reasonable price. It has a nice-looking design, fast charging speeds, and advanced smart features. With its user-friendly installation process, robust safety measures, and real-time monitoring through the app, this charger offers excellent value for its price.
Pros
- Fast charging speeds of up to 7.4kW
- User-friendly smart app for scheduling and monitoring
- Built-in PEN protection and advanced safety features
- Compact, stylish design with robust durability
- Easy installation by any qualified electrician
Cons
- Not recommended for use in extreme weather conditions
- Requires stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal smart functionality
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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.
