How to choose a home EV charger in 2026

In 2026, most new vehicles sold in Québec plug in. And with the arrival of longer-range models (and therefore larger batteries), choosing the right charger becomes more strategic. This article sorts it out.

Three criteria dominate: the power your panel can supply, the connector (NACS, J1772 or universal), and the charger's intelligence (load management, app, sharing between vehicles).

Power: 32 A or 48 A?

A 32 A charger on 240 V delivers about 7.7 kW — a full charge in 10 to 12 hours for a 75 kWh battery. A 48 A charger climbs to 11.5 kW, or 6 to 8 hours. The difference only becomes critical if you drive a lot or have several vehicles.

The catch is the electrical panel. A 48 A charger needs a dedicated 60 A circuit, which quickly maxes out a 100 A panel. Have your available capacity assessed before settling on a choice.

Connector: NACS, J1772 or universal

The NACS standard (Tesla) is gradually being adopted by Ford, GM, Hyundai, Kia and others. J1772 remains the current Canadian standard. To avoid being stuck three years from now, a universal charger (with both connectors) is an excellent compromise.

The Tesla Universal Wall Connector combines both and stays compatible with future Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles. For most 2026 installations, it's our default recommendation.

Smart features: are they really worth it?

A smart charger lets you: charge during off-peak hours, share power across several chargers, track your consumption through an app, and soon sell energy back to the grid (V2G).

If you're planning a Powerwall or a future bidirectional vehicle, a smart charger is no longer a luxury: it's an investment that pays for itself quickly.

What about the permit?

Installing a 240 V charger requires a municipal permit in most North Shore cities. A master electrician handles this for you and ensures the installation meets the Québec Electrical Code.

Ask us your questions: we assess your project for free and give you a clear quote before any commitment.