MSI has unveiled its all-new EZgo rugged portable EV charger at CES, “built to endure harsh environments”. It’s a flexible solution for anyone who needs an EVSE for home and on-the-go charging.

The MSI EZgo can be mounted at home during the week, as it comes standard with a home kit (holder + hook + hardware), and tossed in the trunk (in an attached structured carry bag) when traveling.

MSI EZgo: Up to 9.6 kW; NACS or SAE J1772

Technically speaking, the MSI EZgo is a dual-voltage plug-in charging station that can be plugged into a NEMA 14-50 240-volt outlet or a NEMA 5-15 120-volt outlet (with detachable NEMA adapters).

The maximum power output is 9.6 kW (up to 40 amps at 240 volts). The current (and thus power) can be adjusted to the available level with a physical button. When using the NEMA 5-15 adapter, the maximum power is about 1.4 kW (12 amps at 120 volts).

The MSI EZgo can be ordered with a SAE J1772 or NACS charging connector. The length of the charging cable is 25 feet.

MSI EZgo, a 9.6-kW dual-voltage portable EV charger. (Source: MSI)

MSI EZgo: Built-In Thermal Sensor

One of the most interesting safety features of the MSI EZgo is a built-in thermal sensor in the NEMA 15-40 plug (as shown below), which should stop charging after detecting a temperature exceeding the limit, preventing outlet meltdown.

That’s a very important feature, especially for a portable charging station, which is expected to be plugged in multiple times in various locations.

MSI EZgo, a 9.6-kW dual-voltage portable EV charger. (Source: MSI)

MSI EZgo: Durability

Another important feature for portable EVSE is durability. According to the manufacturer, the EZgo has an IP66-rated enclosure that helps protect the unit against dust and water exposure.

The unit is promised to withstand a 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) run-over by a car.

MSI EZgo: 1.8-inch Display and aConnect App

The MSI EZgo features a 1.8-inch display for essential data, including real-time voltage, real-time current, temperature, and current setting. There are also physical buttons for scheduling and current control.

On top of that, the aConnect app offers even more control.

“Unlike many portable chargers that hide key info behind a phone screen, EZgo features a 1.8-inch display that shows essential charging data at a glance, plus physical buttons for delay scheduling and manual amp adjustment. Drivers can also use MSI aConnect with fast Bluetooth pairing and multi-user sharing, no “exclusive binding” hassle.”

MSI EZgo, a 9.6-kW dual-voltage portable EV charger. (Source: MSI)

MSI EZgo: Price

The MSI EZgo will be offered from $349, which is not the lowest price we’ve seen, but appears competitive for a new product with multiple features and a 3-year warranty. We assume that the product will soon join the MSI EV Life Series of residential charging stations in the company’s US online shop here.

MSI EZgo: Specs

MSI EZgo, a 9.6-kW dual-voltage portable EV charger. (Source: MSI)