Not every home has a long driveway or a wide garage wall to fit a bulky EV charger. Many Irish homeowners need smart solutions that save space and maximise convenience without compromising on performance or safety. Whether you park perpendicular to the house, have a narrow side passage, or limited wall space, choosing the right EV charger can make daily charging effortless.
In this guide we highlight the best EV chargers suited for small driveways and compact spaces, explain what features matter most, and provide tips on planning an efficient installation.
What Makes a Charger Ideal for Tight Spaces?
When space is limited, size alone is not the only consideration. The best charger for a small driveway should also:
- Be compact and visually unobtrusive
- Have flexible cable management
- Offer smart charging controls
- Be compatible with solar or energy management systems
- Allow tidy installation close to parking
For tips on choosing the optimal spot before you install, see our guide How to Pick the Best Spot for Your EV Charger.
Compact and Smart Chargers Available from WattCharger
WattCharger supplies and installs a selection of high-quality chargers that are well suited to homeowners with limited space.
Zappi EV Charger – Tethered
The Zappi Tethered is a smart and solar compatible EV charger with a built-in cable. Its sleek design makes it perfect for small driveways where neat cable storage matters. It offers programmable charging and solar integration for greener charging.
Zappi EV Charger – Untethered
If you prefer flexibility in cable routing or multiple users with different EVs, the Zappi Untethered gives you charger body only, which reduces visual bulk and allows tidy wall mounting close to parking.
Ohme ePod 7.4 kW
The Ohme ePod is one of the most compact chargers in the range. It’s designed to be discreet and efficient, making it ideal for side driveways or narrow parking spots where space is at a premium.
These chargers are all SEAI grant approved, meaning you could receive up to €300 back on purchase and installation under the current home charger support scheme (check eligibility terms with your installer).
Why Smart Chargers Work Well in Small Spots
Smart EV chargers with integrated apps or scheduling features are particularly useful in tight spaces because they help you:
- Avoid overloading circuits during peak household use
- Prioritise off-peak or solar-powered charging
- Monitor and control charging without unplugging
- Set schedules for multiple vehicles without clutter
These advantages are just as valuable as physical size when driveway or wall space is limited.
Planning Installation for Small Driveways
Good planning ensures your charger is both functional and unobtrusive. Consider:
- Mounting on the wall closest to the parking spot for shorter cable reach
- Adding a pedestal mount if wall space is limited
- Using cable clips or holders to keep the charge lead tidy
- Ensuring the charger is installed by a qualified electrician for safety and compliance
Installing close to the fuse board can also reduce installation cost and complexity.
How Much Space Do You Really Need?
A typical home EV charger body is around 35 cm to 40 cm high and 20 cm wide, but this varies by model. With compact chargers like the Ohme ePod, you can often mount the unit on narrow walls, fence posts, or even a short pedestal near your parking spot without crowding your driveway.
For larger models like the full Zappi units, thoughtful cable routing and wall placement help ensure efficient use of space even in smaller areas.
EV Charger Safety Considerations
When planning your EV charging setup, considering user safety and pedestrian traffic flow matters, particularly in compact driveways. According to SAE International, EV charger placement should avoid high foot traffic areas and maintain clear access to walkways and doors for safety and convenience.
This aligns with good practice in home installations where limiting clutter and trip hazards makes your charging area both safer and more pleasant.
Final Thoughts
Small driveways and tight parking spaces do not mean you have to compromise on EV charging quality. With compact smart chargers like the Zappi Tethered, Zappi Untethered, and Ohme ePod 7.4 kW, you can add powerful, efficient charging to even the most space limited homes.
Planning your installation carefully and using a qualified installer ensures your system is both safe and tailored to your space. If you want help choosing the best charger for your driveway and lifestyle, WattCharger can assess your space, recommend the right model, and organise professional installation with SEAI grant support.
Blog Author: Rowan Egan