EV charging is easier to understand when it is divided into two broad categories: AC charging and DC fast charging.
AC charging
Homes, workplaces and many destination chargers provide alternating current. The vehicle’s onboard charger converts that electricity to DC before it reaches the battery. AC charging is typically well suited to overnight or long-duration parking.
DC fast charging
A DC fast charger performs much of the conversion outside the vehicle and supplies DC electricity directly to the battery system. This enables much higher charging power and can make long-distance travel significantly more practical.
Peak speed is not the whole story
A charger or vehicle may advertise an impressive peak rate, but charging power usually changes as the battery fills. For road trips, the time required to move through a useful charging window can be more meaningful than the maximum number shown in a specification table.