by Mike Becker | Reviewed by David Perez | Updated: Jun 8, 2023

Looking for Audi Universal Charger equivalents? Scroll through this model overview.

Want an EVSE with more power for the e-tron? Read on.

Best choice
JuiceBox 40 Hardwired Smart EV Home Charging Station (40 Amp, 240 Volt, 25ft Cable), WiFi, Indoor/Outdoor charger, Energy Star & UL Certified
10
$59900
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A hardwired connection that is perfect for those who want to be prepared for an EV future with more power. Professional Installation is required. The app and stable wifi make it easy to keep track of your charging.

Is there a better solution than the regular charger? Yes. Since the Audi Universal Charger is a portable device, it will be limited to a maximum of 9.6kW. At the same time, the e-tron, for example, is capable of drawing more. If you want more power, hardwired chargers will easily provide this for your Audi. Want more? Read on. 

Best hardwired EV chargers that provide fast charging at home

Based on customer feedback and our customers, the well-known brands are well established.

A hardwired charger is more expensive upfront, but it can be installed by a professional technician. It is also more reliable than electric charging stations, which sometimes fail when the power goes out.

With Audi e-tron EV chargers, an always-on power supply is essential to avoid the inconvenience of forgetting and not being able to charge for days on end.

Another advantage of home charging is that you can install Level-2 chargers (up to 10 kW) without having to upgrade your panel.

Audi Universal Charger alternatives

The Audi Universal Charger that comes with the e-tron is sometimes compared to other models, including the Tesla Mobile Connector. What they have in common is the connection to NEMA 14-50 to get 40 amps (32 for TMC), which equals 9.6kW. That said, setting up a delayed charge is easy via the MyAudi or MMI app. We looked at the best Audi Universal Charger alternatives, prioritizing plug-in versatility.

Best NEMA 14-50 plug-in EV chargers for Audi e-tron

We also think the following models are also great products, which we have already written about earlier:

Plug-in EV chargers are a bit cheaper than hardwired chargers, but they require manual removal of the power if they’re not going to be used for an extended period of time.

Audi e-tron home сhargers

So how do you choose the right home EV Charger for your Audi e-tron? It depends on a few factors, including:

  • The amperage of your electric vehicle
  • The distance from the EV charger to the nearest charging station
  • Ample power usage by local utility company
  • Home size and layout
  • Your desired level of installation (a DIY or professional service?)
  • Amount of available space in front and back of your house for installation
  • Your budget

Differences in the power of the chargers

Let’s start by talking about what home EV Chargers are and how they work. Home EV Chargers (sometimes called Electric Vehicle Service Equipment, or EVSE) are devices that allow you to charge your electric car at home. They plug into a standard wall outlet and connect to your car’s charging port using a special cable. Home chargers come in two main types: Level 1 and Level 2.

Level-1 home сhargers use a standard 110-volt household outlet and typically provide between 3 and 5 amps of power, which is not enough to charge most electric cars. If you have an Audi e-tron, you’ll need a Level-2 home сharger.

Level-2 home сhargers use a 240-volt outlet and provide between 10 and 20 amps of power, which is enough to charge most electric cars in a few hours. They can be installed in your home or garage, or even outdoors if you have a weatherproof outlet.

A home сharge station (HCS) aka Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) facilitates the transfer of power from electricity to your electric car, and it can be as simple as a cord and an outlet or as complicated as you want it to be. Home chargers for Audi e-tron can be installed inside or outside of your garage, so think about where there’s room for one (and where you’re most comfortable having one).

Most home EV Chargers cannot deliver DC (Direct Current) high-amperage power directly from your house to your Audi e-tron because that bit is managed by the factory Audi High Power Wall Connector (HPWC). How much amperage do you need? An HCS delivers AC (Alternating Current) and the volume of AC needed is measured in amps (amps x Volts = Watts—but we have a separate article on how to calculate your EV’s energy usage).

What can home сharging stations charge?

In most cases, home сharging stations will only deliver as many amps as your wall outlet provides, which is typically 15 amps. Audi recommends that you do not exceed 80% of the amperage capability of your home сharger. Your home Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) must be capable of delivering a minimum of 19.2kW at 240 volts for a 40 amp circuit. A 32-amp dedicated circuit is recommended by Audi.

It is best practice to determine the maximum current draw from an HPWC or HCS and match it with the amperage capabilities of your house wiring and the DC charging capabilities of the home сharger. In order to supply 80% of the maximum current draw (for a 40-amp circuit), your house wiring must be rated for at least 50 amps. You may need to upgrade your service panel and wiring to support a home EV Charger installation, or consult with an electrician about this.

In the US, Audi has partnered with local utility companies to provide e-tron owners 12 months of complimentary charging at public charging stations. Check with your local utility company to see what level of power they can provide for EV charging in your area—it might be more than you think!

How do you go about getting a home EV charger for your Audi e-tron? 

You can either purchase and install a home сharger on your own, or you can hire a professional to do it for you. Installation will likely cost between $400 and $1,200, but there are many variables that will affect the final price, including the type of home EV Charger you choose, materials and permits required, and the complexity of the installation.

If you’re handy with tools and want to go the DIY route, there are plenty of home сharger options to choose from. But if you’re not comfortable installing one yourself or don’t have the time, hiring a professional is a good option. Many electrical contractors offer home EV charging services, so be sure to ask around or search online for “EV Charging Installers.”

How do you pick an EV charging station if you have an Audi e-tron?

When you own an electric car, such as the Audi e-tron, one of the most important things you need to consider is how you’re going to charge it. You can’t just plug it into any standard outlet. You need a home EV charger. But with so many different options available, how do you choose the right one for you?

Where can I buy an electric vehicle charger?

Home EV chargers can be purchased from many online and offline retailers, including Home Depot, Amazon, and Audi dealerships. You can also find them at local electrical supply stores. Prices for home EV chargers vary, but you can expect to pay between $300 and $1,500 for a basic model. Higher-end models with more features can cost much more.

How do home EV Chargers work?

Home EV chargers plug into standard wall outlets and provide a 240-volt current at a capacity of 10 to 20 amps, which is the rate necessary for quick charging of most EVs. Home chargers can be safely installed outdoors as well as indoors. They often feature an LED indicator light that shows whether the charger is ready to energize and needs your attention. Home EV chargers can be plugged into a dedicated circuit or attached to an existing outlet.

What home EV Charger should I buy?

TThere’s no single home сharger that’s perfect for everyone, but there are several options available for Audi e-tron owners. Be sure to check your home сharger’s amperage (in amps) and the maximum voltage (in volts), which you can find on its label. It should be around 240 volts at up to 30 amps, which is enough power for an Audi e-tron.

We can help you with installing electric vehicle chargers.

For your house EV charger, we offer skilled installation service. We have a lot of expertise installing home сhargers for Audi from a variety of manufacturers. We can install your home сharger in your home or garage, or even outdoors if you have a weatherproof outlet.If you’re interested in having a home EV Charger installed, please contact us today for a free consultation.

Audi-e-tron owner? Find out how long it takes to charge it.

  16 Amp EV charger 30 Amp EV charger 50 Amp EV charger
Audi e-tron 50 quattro 14 h 1 min 7 h 24 min 4 h 50 min
Audi e-tron GTRS 18 h 25 min 9 h 43 min 6 h 22 min
Audi e-tron Sportback50 quattro 14 h 1 min 7 h 24 min 4 h 50 min

You can independently make a calculation for a different amperage in the calculator.

Comparison table for NEMA 14-50 plug-in EV chargers for Audi e-tron

Lectron Level 2 Portable EV Charger (240 Volt, 21ft Cable, ...BESENERGY Level 2 Portable EV Charger NEMA 14-50 Plug, 32 A...Blink Charging Blink HQ 200 40 Amp, Level 2 Electric Vehicl...
OverviewСompact device. The light weight makes it easy to transport.
BrandLectronBESENERGYBlink Charging
Amperage323240
Cable length, ft212123
OutdoorNoYes
WaterproofNoIP66
Weight‎10.810.7319.34
Working temperature-22°F to 122°F-13℉ - 131℉
Warranty1 year1 year1 year
CertificateUl certifiedUL listing and Energy Star Certification

Comparison table for hardwired EV chargers that provide fast charging at home

JuiceBox 40 Hardwired Smart EV Home Charging Station (40 Am...Wallbox Pulsar Plus Level 2 EV Charging station 11.52 kW (2...
OverviewA hardwired connection that is perfect for those who want to be prepared for an EV future with more power. Professional Installation is required. The app and stable wifi make it easy to keep track of your charging.Voice control-enabled. Designed for intelligent, professional installation to a 70A breaker and provides excellent performance.
BrandJuiceBoxWallbox
Amperage4048
Cable length, ft2525
Enclosure Materialn/a
OutdoorYesYes
Wall/StandWallWall
WaterproofYesNEMA Type 4
Weight21.222.8
Working temperaturen/an/a
Warranty3 years3 years
CertificateUL & Energy StarUL

What Makes the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Stand Out?

Audi’s proclamation1 is crystal clear: the 2024 Q8 e-tron stands as their flagship SUV powered by electricity. This model represents a leap forward in electric vehicle (EV) technology, setting new standards for performance, efficiency, and design.

What’s New in the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron?

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron, a successor to the original e-tron model, features significant refinements that have resulted in extended driving range, enhanced power, faster charging capabilities, and improved driving dynamics. Its acceleration is nothing short of impressive – with the ultra package, the Q8 Sportback e-tron can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.3 seconds.

How Has the Battery Performance Improved?

Astonishingly, the new Audi Q8 e-tron boasts a 23% increase in net capacity, reaching 106 kWh (114 kWh gross), surpassing the previous e-tron model. Notably, its battery pack’s usable capacity has been optimized to 93%, up from the previous 91%, thanks to adjustments in the battery management system2. These advancements in battery cell chemistry and packaging significantly enhance efficiency and driving range.

What’s Unique About the Charging System?

Unique to the e-Tron, the charging port is conveniently positioned on the left side of the vehicle, adjacent to the driver’s door. However, for those who require it, there is an option to include a second charging port on the passenger side. The Audi e-tron supports two charging inlet standards: Type 2 and CCS. The Type 2 inlet3 is utilized for charging at home or public AC points, both slow and fast, while the CCS inlet allows for high-power rapid DC charging.

Should You Charge Your Electric Vehicle Every Night?

In most cases, it is unnecessary to charge an electric vehicle every night as doing so can potentially shorten the lifespan of the battery pack. Battery charging recommendations4 found in the car’s user manual should be adhered to for optimal performance and longevity.

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron represents a benchmark in the evolution of electric SUVs. Its improved power, efficiency, and charging capabilities make it a compelling choice for those looking to make the switch to an electric future.

Can Audi e-tron Electric Vehicles Utilize Tesla Chargers?

The simple answer is yes! Audi e-tron EV can utilize low-powered Tesla chargers with the help of a J1772 adapter. This adapter enables other electric cars to charge using both the Tesla Wall Connector and Tesla Mobile Connector. It broadens the charging possibilities, making the electric vehicle ownership experience more flexible.

Should You Charge Your EV to 100%?

It is generally recommended to charge an EV only up to 80% to maximize charging rates. Beyond this point, the charging speed significantly decreases. Moreover, keeping the battery pack below 100% contributes to the long-term health of the vehicle’s battery. This practice optimizes battery life and charging efficiency5, ensuring you get the most out of your Audi e-tron.

How Often Should You Charge Your Electric Vehicle?

Most of the latest e-tron electric cars offer a range of over 200 miles (322 km) on a single charge, making them suitable for daily driving needs. Most electric car owners prefer to charge their vehicles at home overnight. However, for regular driving habits, it is not necessary to fully charge the battery every night. This way, you can maximize the lifespan6 of your Audi EV’s battery.

Why Is an 80% Charging Ceiling Recommended?

It is advisable to set a charging ceiling of 80% since charging the battery of Audi e-tron beyond this point often takes significantly more time. Unless you have extensive daily driving requirements, a single charge should last multiple days. This strategy not only saves time but also helps maintain the battery’s overall health7.

Does Charging Your e-tron EV to 100% Every Night Affect Battery Life?

In general, it is not recommended to charge your Audi battery to 100% every night, as frequent charging cycles can contribute to battery degradation. Most EVs available today offer a range of a few hundred miles on a full charge, which should be sufficient for several days unless you frequently drive long distances. Following these guidelines ensures you optimize your EV’s battery life while meeting your daily driving needs.

In conclusion, managing your electric vehicle’s charging routine can significantly impact its performance and longevity. By understanding and applying these practices, you can get the most out of your EV experience.

Does Frequent Charging Affect Battery Life?

Charging too often can lead to natural battery degradation, as the number of charging cycles over the battery’s lifespan plays a role in its performance and durability. To prolong the high voltage battery life, it is advisable to minimize charging whenever possible. Managing your battery’s charging frequency is a critical part of maintaining your Audi e-tron’s battery health8.

Is Consistent Level 2 Charging Safe for Your Battery?

If your daily needs require charging at level 2, there is no need to worry about damaging the battery of your Audi. Consistently charging at level 2 will not significantly impact the overall lifespan of your battery. This means you can meet your daily charging needs without fear of accelerated battery degradation.

What Makes the 350 kW Fast DC Chargers Recommended by Audi?

Audi E-Tron strongly recommends the use of 350 kW fast DC chargers, enabling the vehicle to charge up to 80% in just approximately 15 minutes, delivering quick and efficient charging capabilities. With such speed, these chargers add significant convenience to the EV ownership experience9.

What are the Charging Options for Your Audi e-tron?

Charging your Audi e-tron is possible with a Type 2 connector, whether at home, work, or public charging points. Additionally, there is a CCS connector available for rapid charging. You also have the option of an optional 22kW on-board charger. These multiple charging options make owning and operating an Audi e-tron a highly flexible experience.

How Does Audi e-tron Optimize Charging Efficiency?

The Audi e-tron optimizes charging efficiency by maintaining a consistent charging rate and potentially drawing a higher power from the charger when auxiliary heating is activated and if the charger has the capacity to provide additional kilowatts. This smart system ensures you get the most out of every charging session.

How to Maximize Energy Efficiency While Driving the e-tron?

To maximize energy efficiency while driving, pre-conditioning the e-tron’s battery to operate at the optimal temperature can reduce overall energy consumption. Additionally, factors such as drag and the inclusion of add-on accessories like a roof box can affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics and subsequently impact its range. Understanding these factors can help you enhance your EV’s efficiency10 and range.

What is the Ideal Battery Charge Level for Optimal Performance and Longevity?

Maintaining the battery charge level between 0% and 100% can enhance the performance and longevity of your vehicle’s battery. While a full charge offers maximum operating time, it is advisable to consider the long-term lifespan of the battery and avoid consistently charging to 100%. This balance ensures you enjoy maximum performance while maintaining battery health.

In conclusion, the Audi e-tron’s charging flexibility and efficiency optimizations make it a standout in the EV market. By understanding these nuances, you can enhance your e-tron ownership experience.

How Fast Can the Audi e-tron GT Charge Using DC Fast Charging?

DC fast charging, commonly found at public charging stations, provides the highest charging power. As an example, the 2023 Audi e-tron GT can charge from 5% to 80% in approximately 22.5 minutes when utilizing a high-speed public charging unit capable of delivering 270 kW. This rapid charging capability significantly reduces downtime and enhances the convenience of long-distance travel in your Audi e-tron GT11.

How to Ensure a Safe and Efficient Home Charging Setup?

For the best ownership experience of an electric vehicle, Audi recommends reaching out to trusted local licensed electricians who are properly trained, certified, and insured to install a NEMA 14-50 outlet on a 240-volt, 50-amp circuit for AC Level 2 home charging. It is crucial to ensure compliance with local electrical and building codes during installation. This will ensure your home charging setup is both safe and optimized for your EV’s charging needs12.

What Portable Charger Options are Available for the Audi e-tron?

A Type 2 Portable EV Charger with a 15 Amp rating is available for charging the Audi e-tron. This portable charging option provides flexibility for e-tron owners, allowing them to charge their vehicle in various locations, adding an additional layer of convenience to the EV ownership experience.

What Kind of Battery Does the Audi e-tron Feature?

The Audi e-tron is equipped with a powerful lithium-ion battery, enabling a range of more than 248.5 miles in the WLTP driving cycle. The battery operates at a nominal voltage of 396 volts and has a capacity of 95 kWh. This substantial range and energy capacity make the e-tron a capable and versatile EV, ideal for various driving conditions and demands.

How to Determine the Suitable Charging Rate for Your Audi e-tron Quattro?

When utilizing a 240V outlet, it is important to determine its amperage capability. If the outlet is rated at 50 amps or higher, the Audi e-tron quattro can be charged at a 100% charge rate using the Audi mobile charger. If the outlet is rated below 50 amps, the charge rate needs to be adjusted to 50%. Understanding your charging equipment’s specifications ensures optimal charging performance and maintains the safety of your home charging setup.

What Charging Options Does the Audi Q4 e-tron Offer?

Similar to other electric models in the market, the Audi Q4 e-tron can be charged using a Type 2 connector at home, work, or public charging points. This broad compatibility enhances the flexibility of the Q4 e-tron ownership experience13, ensuring you can keep your vehicle charged and ready wherever you are.

In conclusion, charging your Audi e-tron or any Audi EV model is a simple and flexible process. Whether you’re at home, work, or on the road, you can easily keep your vehicle charged and ready to go.

How Quickly Can Audi RS e-tron GT and Audi e-tron GT Quattro Charge?

Drivers of models like the Audi RS e-tron GT and Audi e-tron GT quattro can make quick charging stops, as their batteries can be charged from 5% to 80% in approximately 23 minutes at an HPC station. This rapid charging capability is a game-changer for long-distance travel, reducing the need for extended charging breaks.

What’s the Range of Charging Times for Audi e-tron Vehicles?

The charging time for Audi e-tron vehicles varies depending on the charging method. It ranges from as little as 30 minutes using 480-volt DC fast charging to over three days using a 120-volt Level 1 charger. Understanding the different charging options available and how they influence charging times can help you make the most of your Audi e-tron’s battery14.

What Charging Services Does Audi Offer for e-tron Vehicles on the Road?

The e-tron Charging Service from Audi offers convenient charging options while on the road, providing access to approximately 155,000 AC charging points across 26 European countries with just one card. This extensive network ensures e-tron drivers are never far from a charging point, making long-distance travel in an Audi e-tron more convenient than ever.

What Charging Standards Does the Audi e-tron Use?

Charging the Audi e-tron is facilitated through the CCS standard, which includes rapid DC and AC inlet ports. Both sides of the vehicle are equipped with charging ports for added convenience, ensuring easy access to charging facilities irrespective of the parking arrangement.

How Long Does it Take to Fully Charge an Audi e-Tron using a 240V Level 2 Charging Station?

With a 240V Level 2 charging station, the Audi e-Tron can be fully charged within 8 to 9 hours. Level 2 chargers can be found in select public locations and can also be installed in residential areas or homes. A full overnight charge prepares your e-Tron for the day ahead, ensuring it’s always ready to tackle your daily driving needs.

Charging your Audi e-tron or any Audi EV model is a straightforward and flexible process. With the wide variety of charging options available, you can easily maintain your vehicle’s battery, whether you’re at home, at work, or on a long-distance journey.

Mike Becker
About Mike Becker Linked In
Mike is a seasoned engineer with 10+ years of experience in charging systems. He bought a Tesla Model S in 2014 and has been in love with EVs ever since. He runs a small EVSE installation business in Florida and blogs about what he loves.
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Reference

  1. https://www.audi.com/en/experience-audi/models-and-technology/audi-concept-cars/audi-q8-etron-concept.html
  2. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1132997_audi-q8-etron-concept-preview-2024-suv-will-be-based-on-new-premium-platform-electric
  3. https://www.zap-map.com/charge-points/connectors-speeds/
  4. https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/how-to-take-care-of-your-ev-battery-a7447132336/
  5. https://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/how_to_prolong_lithium_based_batteries
  6. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/08/190812130706.htm
  7. https://cleantechnica.com/2019/06/17/tesla-battery-guru-recommends-daily-battery-pack-charging/
  8. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/how-do-electric-car-batteries-work
  9. https://www.audi.com/en/experience-audi/audi-experience/charging-system-compact.html
  10. https://www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/maximize-electric-vehicle-efficiency
  11. https://www.audiusa.com/models/audi-e-tron-gt
  12. https://www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/home-charging-station
  13. https://www.audi.com/en/models/q4-etron.html
  14. https://www.audi.com/en/experience-audi/models-and-technology/audi-e-tron/audi-e-tron-charging-system-compact.html