Khons 32 amp charging cable review
After taking an impromptu EV road trip in my Fiat 500e, I decided to get a more powerful charging cable (EVSE) for use on future trips. After much consideration, I purchased the dual voltage Khons 32 amp EVSE from EVSEadapters.com. This new EVSE supports twice the current of my previous EVSE and has several other compelling features. A duel voltage 16 amp EVSE can easily cost more, so this Khons 32 amp EVSE is also a great value.
Digital display with helpful information
The main feature that sets this EVSE apart from others is the very useful display. The charge rate limit (12A, 16A, 24A or 32A) is displayed in large characters, and makes this EVSE easy to use with various adapters and receptacles. The total kW hours delivered and elapsed time per charging session are displayed as well. Also critical for road trip charging, this EVSE displays the line voltage and actual amps being consumed (together as kW).
Universal connector supports common outlets
Unlike other dual voltage EVSEs that always use an intermediate connector with dog bone adapters, this EVSE comes with a 14-U plug that connects directly into a 14–30 dryer outlet or 14–50 RV outlet. A 5–15 adapter is necessary to “trickle charge” on a standard household outlet. As with all portable EVSEs, other adapters are available to plug into receptacles that are likely to be encountered. Most importantly, the 14–U plug and cable with this EVSE are rated to support continuous charging at 32 amps.
Motion sensor to select desired charge rate
With any electrical device that is used outdoors, it’s critical to keep out moisture Having a button on this EVSE would create an obvious point of failure. Fortunately, the Khons EVSE has no buttons The charge rate limit is set by shaking the unit side to side. This allows the EVSE to be especially dependable in wet environments.
Maximum charge rate for most 100 mile range EVs
If my EV had a higher acceptance rate, a 40 amp charge cable could also be a good option, but that would be heavier and bulkier. A 32 amp EVSE is a perfect fit for Level 2 (240V) charging of most ~100 mile range EVs. Also, some dual voltage EVSEs are hard-wired to a 12A (1.4kW) maximum current on Level 1 (120V) charging, but the adjustable charge rate limit on the Khons EVSE can provide a slightly faster charge there too.
Perfect EVSE to compliment stock EVSE
The Khons EVSE can be mounted as a garage charge station on a 14–50 receptacle, with the stock EVSE stored in the vehicle for emergency charging. When heading out on a road trip or when visiting relatives, simply swap the two charging cables. With so much flexibility and capacity, the Khons 32 amp EVSE will minimize mobile charging time.
High quality unit with room for new features
The durability and build quality of the Khons EVSE are both excellent, although the J1772 connector does fit a bit snug. One improvement to the firmware would be to always revert the charge rate limit back to 12A on 120V and 16A on 240V, so that novice users could just plug in the EVSE, leaving other settings to expert users. This would be an important feature for households with multiple drivers.
Appropriate equipment from a knowledgeable vendor
There’s a community of hobbyists that enjoy tinkering with open source charging stations and adapter cables, but when other family members need to charge their vehicle, simplicity and safety are critical. This Khons EVSE is simple with just one setting for charge rate limit. Additional settings could just create confusion for many users. As the name suggests, the folks at EVSEadapters.com specialize in EV charging and adapters, and they can offer expert advice to help customers make the best purchase.
Note: This is an impartial review of equipment that was purchased at full price. We hope the information provided here helps others make informed decisions when planning for and purchasing EV charging equipment.
