Australia is rapidly shifting toward electric vehicles (EVs), with record sales in 2024 and predictions that EV ownership will double by 2026. As more Australians move to sustainable transport, the demand for practical charging options is increasing. Among the most important accessories for EV owners is the portable electric vehicle charger.
Portable chargers let drivers charge their cars from a regular household socket or other compatible outlets, unlike hardwired charging stations. This flexibility is especially useful in a big country like Australia, where charging stations are still being built and aren’t yet available everywhere.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll talk about what a portable electric vehicle charger is, the different types that are available, how much they will cost in 2025, safety issues, how they compare to hardwired chargers, and what the future of portable charging in Australia looks like. This guide will help you decide if a portable charger is enough for your Tesla, BYD, Hyundai, or Nissan Leaf, or if you should also think about getting a wall-mounted station.
What is a portable electric vehicle charger?
A portable electric vehicle charger is a small device that lets EV owners charge their cars directly from a regular power outlet, like a 10A or 15A household socket in Australia. This is technically called Level 1 EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment).
Many electric vehicles (EVs) come with portable EV chargers as standard equipment. They are usually hidden away in the trunk or frunk. One end has a household plug, the other end has a thick charging cable, a connector (Type 1 or Type 2, depending on the car), and a control box that controls power and safety.
The best thing about it is that it’s easy to get to. Most homes in Australia have at least one power outlet, so you can always find a place to plug in. This means that portable chargers are a safety net for drivers, especially when they are going to places where there may not be any public charging stations.
The biggest problem is that it’s slow. A portable charger can take 24 hours or more to charge a modern electric vehicle, while a dedicated 7kW or 22kW wall charger can do it in one night. A portable electric vehicle charger can be more than enough for occasional use, emergencies, or light daily driving, though.
Different kinds of portable electric vehicle chargers
Portable chargers come in different types. They have different amounts of power, types of connectors, and smart features. These are the most common types you’ll find in Australia:
Portable EV Chargers Level 1
These plug right into a 10A/240V outlet, which is a standard household socket. Charging speeds are slow, and it usually only adds 10–15 km of range per hour. They are great for short trips, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) with smaller batteries, or charging your phone when you’re not at home.
Portable EV Chargers Level 2
When plugged into a 15A socket or even a single- or three-phase outlet, some portable chargers can work at higher power. These chargers can go up to 7.2kW, which is much faster and works well for everyday charging.
Portable Chargers: AC vs. DC
Most portable chargers in Australia are AC and use the car’s built-in charger to change the current. Portable DC chargers are rare and cost more, but they can charge your phone faster because they don’t use the car’s built-in system. These aren’t things that people use every day, but they might be more useful in the future.
Types of Connectors in Australia
There are two main types of connectors in Australia. Type 1 (J1772) is used in older electric vehicles like the first Nissan Leaf and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Now, almost all new EVs sold in the area use Type 2 (Mennekes) connectors. This includes Tesla, Hyundai, BYD, and Volvo.
Comparison Table of Portable EV Chargers
| Charger Type | Voltage Range | Typical Price (AUD) | Best For |
| Standard Charger | 36V–72V, 1.5–2A | $60–$100 | Everyday riders and light use |
| Fast Charger | 36V–84V, up to 5A | $100–$300 | Heavy users needing quicker top-ups |
| Brand-Specific | Varies by model | $80–$200 | Premium EV owners |
| Universal Charger | 48V–72V, 3A+ | $120–$180 | Owners with multiple EVs |
This table highlights that options range from simple entry-level chargers to high-performance universal units. For most EV drivers in Australia, a standard or fast portable charger is sufficient, while luxury EV owners often prefer brand-specific models for compatibility and warranty assurance.
Pros and Cons of a Portable Electric Vehicle Charger
Portable chargers are useful, but they aren’t perfect. The good news is that they are flexible because you can use them almost anywhere there is a power outlet. They are also cheaper than putting in a separate charging station at home, and they make a great backup when you travel long distances. They are easy to store in a trunk or boot because they are small and light.
But there are some problems. The slow charging speeds are the worst thing about them; it can take more than 24 hours to fully charge. Many outlets in homes aren’t made for charging devices for long periods of time, which could limit their use.
Portable chargers aren’t always weatherproof, so they need to be plugged into sheltered outlets to charge safely outside. Lastly, they don’t transfer energy or charge as consistently as fixed stations do. For most Australians, portable chargers are best used as a backup charging option. The main charging source is still a wall-mounted station.
Things to think over before you buy
When looking for a portable EV charger in Australia, there are a number of things to think about to make sure it will work for you. One of the most important things to look at is power output. Higher amperage means faster charging, but you should check to see if your car’s charger is compatible first.
It’s also important that the plugs work with each other. Most newer electric vehicles use Type 2 connectors, but older ones still use Type 1. If you have more than one vehicle, a universal charger can help.
Another important thing is how well it can handle the weather. It is much safer to use a charger outside if it has an IP65 or IP66 rating. It protects against both dust and rain. Cable length can also affect how easy it is to use. Longer cables are better for parking spots that are farther away from the outlet.
Some newer portable chargers also have smart features like LCD screens, Bluetooth connectivity, or app integration. These let you see the charging status and power delivery in real time. Lastly, think about how heavy and durable the charger is, since you’ll probably be moving it a lot. Australian EV owners can choose a charger that works with their car and fits into their daily life by balancing these features.
Prices for portable electric vehicle chargers in Australia
The cost of a portable EV charger in Australia varies based on the brand, features, and power output. Entry-level models usually cost between $250 and $500 as of 2025. These are basic Level 1 chargers that usually plug into 10A household outlets. Mid-range models, which usually have smart features and can charge faster, cost between $800 and $1,200.
Some high-end chargers, like those that can charge three-phase or work with a wide range of vehicles, can cost $2,000 or more. Portable chargers are cheap at first, but they aren’t always the best choice for everyday use. Still, they are a great deal for backup and light driving.
Top Portable Electric Vehicle Chargers in Australia 2025
As more people buy electric vehicles, more brands are making portable chargers that are made for Australian drivers. The Tesla Mobile Connector is one of the most popular options. It comes standard with many Tesla models and is known for being small and dependable.
The EVSE Mini Portable Charger is another favorite. It works with most Type 2 EVs and is great for home and travel. The KWIK Portable Charger 32A charges faster when plugged into stronger outlets, which makes it a good choice for drivers who drive a lot every day.
The Wall box Pulsar Go (Portable Version) is a high-end option that has smart features like app integration and remote monitoring. Each product has its own pros and cons, from being cheap to having cutting-edge technology, so buyers should think carefully about which one fits their driving style.
Tips for Staying Safe While Using a Portable EV Charger
Portable chargers are useful, but you need to be careful when using them to stay safe. Always plug them into outlets that are in good shape and can be used all the time. Do not use extension cords because they can get too hot and start a fire.
Check your charging cables often for signs of wear, cracks, or overheating. If you plan to charge outside, you should definitely use outlets that are weatherproof. Lastly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, because each charger may have its own safety measures that are meant to make it work as well as possible.
Portable EV chargers vs. hardwired EV chargers
A lot of Australians are unsure if a portable charger is enough or if they need a hardwired EV charger. Portable chargers are best for when you need to be flexible, don’t drive much, or need a backup for long trips. People who live in apartments or homes without permanent parking setups will find them especially helpful.
On the other hand, hardwired chargers charge faster, safer, and more reliably. This makes them the best choice for people who use their EVs every day and need to charge them overnight. If you have both solutions, you get the best of both worlds: a fixed station at home for everyday use and a portable charger for when you need it or when you travel.
Future of portable EV chargers in Australia?
In the next ten years, there will be big improvements in charging electric vehicles on the go. We can expect charging speeds to be much faster, with some models possibly reaching 11 kW or more. Wireless charging pads are already being made, and they might become standard accessories for electric vehicles. It will also be more important to connect with solar energy and smart home systems. This will let Australians power their cars with renewable energy right from their roofs.
In addition, changes in government policy and incentives are likely to lead to more investment in charging solutions. As public infrastructure grows, portable chargers will still be very important, especially in rural and regional areas of the country where fixed stations may not be available yet.
Conclusion
One of the most useful accessories for an EV owner in Australia is a portable electric vehicle charger. It might not be as fast or easy as a hardwired wall station, but it makes sure you never run out of battery.
If you make the right choice, you’ll have backup power wherever you go, and you’ll be able to relax knowing that you have it. As Australia’s EV network grows, portable chargers will still be very useful for drivers.
1.Do electric cars have portable chargers?
Yes. Most electric vehicles (EVs) come with a portable charger, but you can also buy universal models.
2.Can I use a generator to charge my electric vehicle?
Yes, it is possible, but the generator must be able to work with the other equipment and have enough power. Before you try this, always talk to the maker of your EV.
3.What is the best portable charger for electric vehicles in Australia?
The Tesla Mobile Connector, EVSE Mini, and KWIK Portable 32A are some of the best choices for 2025.
4. Do all electric cars come with a charger that you can take with you?
Most new electric vehicles come with one, but some high-end models may now sell them separately as optional extras.
5. How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle with a portable charger?
It can take 24 hours or more to fully charge a battery, depending on its size and the type of charger.
Read more about benefits of electric vehicle Charging stations in 2025.
