evec EV Charger Review

We want to help you make the right decision when choosing a home charger. Cheaper than public charging – and easier – home chargers are the best choice. But which should you choose?

Don’t worry; we’ve created a new series reviewing the latest and greatest home EV chargers.

Today, our chosen EV home charger review is the evec VEC01. We’ve tried, tested, scrolled, and scanned through real-life reviews and user feedback to pull the information you value. From features to style to safety – and more – we cover everything you need to know.

But first, who are EVEC?

In a nutshell, evec is a Manchester-based company. The business’s vision is clear and set in stone. They want to remove barriers to electric car ownership by providing affordable electric vehicle charging solutions for everyone – all without compromising on quality.

evec VEC01 overview

In short, the evec VEC01 is a fast single-phase smart home EV charger with a maximum charging rate of 7.4kW. Roughly, this provides 25 of range per hour.

Due to its untethered nature (no cable attached), you can charge with either Type 1 or Type 2 sockets. This means it’s compatible with all battery electric cars and plug-in hybrids. Make sure you have the matching charging cable, though.

Alternatively, the evec VEC03 is available (a tethered version). You don’t need to worry about the differences. These chargers are almost identical.

Design

At first glance, the VEC01 may seem like a standard wallbox. Unobtrusive and clean. No buttons or touch screen, only a connector port with a flap.

But with its boxy, minimal design and stylish LED lights that come to life, the evec has a modern twist that compliments almost all UK homes. Additionally, with its black, glassy sheen, the evec car charger masquerades as a high-end charger at a fraction of the price.

Safety and reliability

You may be thinking – if the price is low when compared to other EV charging points – what’s the catch?… Is it safety?

Absolutely not.

Evec goes above and beyond to protect you. With built-in safety features, your electric car, house and charger are covered from the very first plug-in and way into the future:

• Over current protection
• Residual Current Protection
• Built-in pen protection
• Compliance with local standards & UK protection requirements
• 3-year warranty
• Dust and weather-resistant (IP55)
• Load balancing
• Full OCPP 1.6J protocols
• Corrosion-resistant and fire retardant
• CE and UKCA approved

Evec EV Charger App

Manage your evec through its own app. Simply search on Google or the Apple Store, and it’ll be the first option available.

But what can you do with the app?

Overall, the evec app allows you to schedule charging times, monitor charging status, and receive alerts when your home EV charging is complete.

Plus, with its clean, clear-cut design and simple tech, you’ll be able to work your charger easily. Even a tech novice can smartly charge with the VEC01 charger and app without a headache.

But, for the app to work, you’ll need to connect your charger and the app through a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection.

One to be aware of – if your Wi-Fi is prone to tantrums, be warned the app will not function smoothly without a stable connection.

Does the evec have solar charging?

Now, with newly added solar EV charging capabilities, the evec can top up your electric vehicle with free, surplus solar energy. Yes, that’s right – free.

Make sure you have the right solar set-up, though, or else you won’t be able to take advantage of this future-proof feature.

What are the pros and cons of an evec charger?

We always say that there is no best EV charger. Everyone is different, from aesthetic preferences to smart charging needs. Naturally, one’s best electric car charger will, therefore, differ, too.

So, we’ll take you through the pros and cons in this evec charger review to help you make your decision.

Evec Pros:

1. Affordable price

At the top of the list of advantages is undoubtedly the evec’s price. The company is moving mountains to provide you with a fantastic charger at a ridiculously attractive price point (currently on offer for £347.99 without standard installation).

2. Compact and modern design

Compact and classic, the design of the evec charger makes it easy to install in various locations while blending in. Because of this, the VEC01 ultimately adds value to your property.

3. Smart features

Again, at the price point, the evec charger packs a punch with its smart features. Solar charging as a standard feature is a huge bonus that other manufacturers charge you an additional premium for.

4. User-friendly app

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the app features intuitive app control that makes it easy for EV drivers to start, stop and monitor their charging sessions.

5. Adjustable power rating

Despite its maximum 7.4kw charging rate, you can choose whether you charge at 3.7kW or 7.4kW for ultimate flexibility.

Evec Cons:

1. Mobile connection

Unfortunately, the evec doesn’t feature a mobile connection option, which some home chargers – not all – do offer. A mobile connection option is perfect for those with unsteady Wi-Fi to have stable access to smart features. While this option isn’t common, it may be the deciding factor for some who live out in the sticks.

2. Smart features

This may seem hypocritical, given that the smart features are in the pros section, too. But stay with us – we have our reasoning. Despite the features given at the price point, there are a few smart features that are missing. These anomalies can amplify your home charging experience massively.

For example, the evec lacks smart tariff compatibility. So, if you want to charge for as little as 7p per kWh, such as using the OVO Charge Anytime Tariff, you unfortunately won’t be able to. This also means evec ev charger isn’t Octopus Energy compatible. If cost savings are important to you, the evec might not be for you.

Still, for the incredible price point, the VEC01 goes above and beyond what most chargers do at a higher price. And you can still save massively by setting your evec to charge overnight during these off-peak hours, regardless of tariffs.

3. LED lights

While most enjoy this novelty, one or two customers have commented on the brightness of the LED lights on the evec charger. So, we’ve included this as a heads-up rather than an outright con.

For us, the LED lights add a touch of character and a premium edge to the evec. Plus, it makes seeing what’s happening with your charger simple. For example, red = error, green = charging.

But, for those who are perhaps sensitive to light or dislike flashy lights on the outside of their house, give the evec a pass. Or, install it in your garage.

Evec EV Charger – final thoughts:

Ultimately, whether or not the evec charger is right for you depends on your wants and needs.

However, truthfully, we feel you can’t go wrong with the evec. Attractively priced, user-friendly, and with an all-around modern look, the evec is truly for (almost) everyone. But especially for those who favour affordability and simplicity in their home charging.

You can browse the full evec EV charger manual on our website and read evec’s reviews on Trustpilot.

Interested in an evec EV charger installation?

Choose We Power Your Car for an evec 3-year warranty and an additional 1-year warranty.