Imagine a charging station that can withstand the full force of a British winter - from driving rain to biting winds and sub-zero temperatures. As electric vehicles become increasingly common on UK roads, the durability and reliability of charging infrastructure have never been more critical. Modern EV charging stations must be engineered to handle everything from coastal salt spray to urban pollution, all while delivering consistent performance in any weather condition. Let's explore how today's charging stations are built to last.
At Ratio EV, our charging stations are engineered from the ground up to handle the UK's diverse weather conditions. The io7 and io8 charging pillars, for instance, feature extruded aluminium bodies that provide exceptional durability and longevity. This isn't just about using strong materials – it's about smart design that considers every environmental challenge.
Our charging stations undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet IP54 ratings for the main unit and IP66 for the lighting head, protecting against water ingress and dust. This dual-rating approach means our chargers remain operational in heavy rain while maintaining the integrity of their sophisticated lighting systems.
The choice of materials plays a crucial role in charger longevity. Modern EV chargers utilise a carefully selected combination of materials, each chosen for specific properties:
Aluminium Bodies: Our chargers' bodies are constructed from aluminium, providing excellent durability and weather resistance.
Beyond weather resistance, modern charging stations must be robust enough to handle physical impacts. Our chargers are built to meet the IK10 impact resistance rating – the highest level of protection against external mechanical impacts. This means they can withstand an impact of up to 20 joules, equivalent to a 5kg object dropped from 40cm height.
This level of protection is crucial for:
Weather resistance isn't just about physical protection – it's also about intelligent operation. Modern charging stations incorporate several features to ensure reliable performance:
The longevity of a charging station begins with proper installation. Our products are designed with pre-drilled mounting points and clear installation guidelines to ensure correct positioning and water drainage. The lower access door design allows for simple maintenance while maintaining weatherproof integrity.
Regular maintenance is straightforward but essential:
British weather presents unique challenges, from coastal salt spray to rapid temperature changes. Our charging stations are specifically designed and manufactured in Redditch to handle these conditions. The io7 and io8's built-in lighting features are particularly valuable during the UK's darker months, providing both functionality and safety.
As EV adoption continues to grow, the durability of charging infrastructure becomes increasingly important. At Ratio EV, we're constantly innovating to improve the longevity and reliability of our products. Features like over-the-air software updates ensure our chargers can adapt to new requirements while maintaining their robust performance.
The durability of modern EV charging stations is a testament to thoughtful engineering and material science. From careful material selection to intelligent operating systems, every aspect is designed to ensure reliable charging in all weather conditions. As part of the FW Thorpe Group, with its commitment to sustainability and quality since 1936, we understand that building for longevity isn't just about today's performance – it's about creating infrastructure that will serve communities for years to come.
When selecting an EV charging station, consider not just the initial installation but the long-term durability that comes from quality design and construction. After all, the best charging station is one you can rely on, whatever the weather.