Audi A3 e-tron EV charger: which one is the best fit?
The Audi A3 e-tron (2013 to 2020) is a plug-in hybrid with an onboard charger that supports a maximum of 3.7 kW on a single-phase connection. The onboard charger determines the charging speed, not the EV charger: a powerful 11 or 22 kW charger will not charge this car any faster. However, smart functions, future compatibility and an integrated MID meter can make a meaningful difference when choosing a charger. You can also first view the complete range of Audi EV charger options at Wallbox Discounter.
For the Audi A3 e-tron, we recommend choosing a charger from our range of 7.4 kW EV chargers.
Charging specifications of the Audi A3 e-tron
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 8.8 kWh (gross) |
| Maximum AC charging power at home | 3.7 kW (single-phase, 16A) |
| Charging time at 3.7 kW | approx. 2.5 hours |
| Charging connector | Type 2 (Mennekes) |
| DC fast charging | Not available |
Why a more powerful EV charger does not charge the Audi A3 e-tron faster
When you connect the Audi A3 e-tron to an 11 or 22 kW EV charger, it will still charge at a maximum of 3.7 kW. The car cannot accept more power than its integrated onboard charger can process. A 7.4 kW EV charger on a single-phase connection is therefore more than sufficient and matches the charging specifications of the A3 e-tron. A more powerful charger may still be worthwhile when you intend to switch to an EV with a higher charging capacity in the future. View our range of 7.4 kW EV chargers.
Which EV charger is suitable for the Audi A3 e-tron?
Because the maximum charging speed is limited to 3.7 kW, you mainly choose an EV charger based on its functions, ease of use and future compatibility. An integrated MID meter is particularly useful when the charged kilowatt-hours must be recorded accurately and verifiably, for example for reimbursement by an employer, leasing company or your own business. In the Netherlands, a compatible EV charger with a MID meter may also be used for ERE registration. ERE certificates are only applicable in the Netherlands.
| Situation | Recommended EV charger | MID meter | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart home charging | Easee Charge Up 22 kW | No | A compact and intelligent EV charger with app control and adjustable charging power. The Audi A3 e-tron charges at a maximum of 3.7 kW, while the charger is also suitable for a future EV with a higher AC charging capacity. |
| Home with solar panels | Myenergi Zappi V2.1 7.4 kW | No | Can automatically use surplus solar energy to charge the car, making it particularly suitable for homes with solar panels. Because it does not have an integrated MID meter, it is less suitable for certified business reimbursement or ERE registration in the Netherlands. |
| Budget option | Loady Pulse 7.4 kW | No | An affordable and compact EV charger for straightforward home charging. It matches the single-phase charging capacity of the Audi A3 e-tron, but does not provide a certified MID meter for business reimbursement or ERE registration in the Netherlands. |
The A3 e-tron uses a Type 2 connection, just like most modern EV chargers. At home, you can charge using the fixed cable or Type 2 socket on the charger. To charge at a public charging station without a fixed cable, you need a separate Type 2 charging cable.
How long does it take to charge the Audi A3 e-tron?
The battery has a gross capacity of 8.8 kWh. At the maximum charging power of 3.7 kW, a complete charging session takes approximately 2.5 hours. This calculation takes the battery capacity, maximum charging power and normal charging losses into account. In practice, you can easily recharge the A3 e-tron overnight after a day of commuting.
Other versions of the Audi A3 e-tron
Wallbox Discounter also provides charging information for the other version of the A3 e-tron:
Frequently asked questions
Does the Audi A3 e-tron require a three-phase connection?
No. The A3 e-tron charges on a single phase at a maximum of 3.7 kW, so a standard single-phase connection is sufficient. A three-phase connection will not increase the charging speed of this car, but it may be useful when you later purchase an EV that supports a higher AC charging capacity.
Why can a MID meter be important for the A3 e-tron?
A MID-certified kWh meter accurately and verifiably records the energy used for charging. This is particularly important when charging costs are reimbursed by an employer, leasing company or your own business. In the Netherlands, a compatible EV charger with a MID meter may also be used for ERE registration. ERE certificates are only applicable in the Netherlands. For exclusively private charging, a MID meter is not essential, but it provides a transparent overview of actual charging consumption.
Does the EV charger need to be connected by an installer?
We strongly recommend having the charger connected by a qualified electrical installer. The installer connects the EV charger safely to a dedicated circuit and checks whether the electrical connection and protective equipment are suitable. This improves safety and may be important for your insurance coverage. At Wallbox Discounter, you can also order the EV charger including installation.