This is an update on the Pod Point Solo 3, which now features solar integration so you can potentially enjoy zero carbon emissions and zero cost if you fully utilise your panels. Now you can choose solar-only or solar and grid modes depending on your needs. If you don’t have solar yet the 3S features next-generation software designed to integrate with future home energy technology, meaning your home will be future-proofed for years to come. The 3S gets a redesign with a darker panel that is slicker than the 3S and the app has been updated so users can tap into cheaper, off-peak energy rates (typically overnight) through the charge schedule feature. In terms of the overall offering, the major pluses are the in-house installation service and five-year warranty.
This is sort of fair to middle in terms of the design. The 3S is definitely an improvement on the Solo 3 but it is bulky compared to others and could look a little prettier. It’s built to last, however, and the five-year warranty is reassuring. It all serves to underscore Pod Point’s confidence in its product.
The updated app is straightforward, allowing you to do all the necessaries without any fuss. You can schedule charging to sync with your off-peak energy tariff, letting you charge when it’s cheapest. You can see what your charging costs are and the app also has a neat little page that will give forecast of your local carbon intensity provided by National Grid. Like most chargers you can export itemised reports and check your charger’s live charging status. The solar function is easy to use – you simply toggle across to solar and the charger will take an excess energy from your panels. Pod Point’s software offers automatic over-the-air updates over WiFi and, if you have the untethered unit, you can lock it in via the app. Overall, the functionality is easy-to-understand and intuitive.
Priced from £1099 with standard installation, the 7kW untethered version is pretty much standard. The tethered version (fixed cable attached) is £50 more, and it comes with a 5-metre cable as standard, but you can opt for a longer cable at additional cost. The newly introduced solar function will reduce your long-term costs if you are ahead of the ‘energy independence’ curve and already have panels installed. Customers can also take advantage of the new ‘Pod Point Plug & Power’ bundle with EDF that offers drivers the ability to purchase a Pod Point Solo 3S charger for an initial payment of £499 (compared to £1,099). This special tariff, also priced at £2,139 a year for the average EV driver, gives customers cheap overnight rates, with five hours of off-peak electricity between midnight and 5am to power both their home and car, priced at 8.49p per kWh. For an average motorist, charging with Pod Point Plug & Power will save drivers £538 a year compared to petrol. And compared with using the public charging network, EV drivers charging with the tariff would save £460.
Existing Pod Point owners can upgrade their old charger to the new Solo 3S starting at a cost of £599 depending on when your existing charger was installed. You get a fresh 5-year product warranty and, if you opt for the tethered version, you’ll get a 5-metre cable and cable holster included in the price. Installation should take about two hours, and most reassuring is the award-winning in-house installation service. This is where Pod Point stands out, having won the best Aftersales and Support category in the latest What Wallcharger? Awards.
Untethered (Universal)
Dimensions (HxWxD) – 330mm x 290mm x 167mm
Weight – 3.5kg
Connection type – Type 2
Compatibility – All plug-in vehicles
Charging mode – Mode 3
Cable length – N/A
Cable holster supplied – Sold separately
Lockable – Remote lock available via app
WiFi – WPA, WPA2, WPA3 or Open WiFi
IP Rating – IP54 enclosure (IP44/54 for plugs and socket)
IK Rating – IK10
Operating temperature -25C- 40C
Protection – 6mA DC Leakage, Over current, PME and failed earth protection
Tethered Unit
Dimensions (HxWxD) – 330mm x 290mm x 112mm
Weight – 6kg
Connection type – Type 2
Compatibility – Type 2 compatible vehicles
Charging mode – Mode 3
Cable length – 5 metres
Cable holster supplied – Yes
Lockable – Remote lock available via app
WiFi – WPA, WPA2, WPA3 or Open WiFi
IP Rating – IP54 enclosure (IP44/54 for plugs and socket)
IK Rating – IK10
Operating temperature -25C- 40C
Protection – 6mA DC Leakage, Over current, PME and failed earth protection
This is an unfussy charger, built to last with an easy-to-use solar function. Of course, the fact that it won the What Wallcharger? Award for best Aftersales and Support means that there will be peace of mind during the installation process. For existing customers, the chance to upgrade for £599 will be tempting and the choice of an untethered unit or a tethered unit is very welcome. It’s a solid offering, not flashy, but functional and robust.
Embark on a seamless electric voyage by leveraging our extensive EV tariff information.
Receive our latest EV charger reviews and videos to your inbox.
