As society shifts towards greener and more sustainable practices, electric vehicles (EVs) have become an increasingly popular topic of interest.
For newcomers to the world of EVs, understanding how these vehicles are charged can initially seem daunting. No one really gets ev charging explained to them properly and with the rise of EV adoption, the need for accessible and comprehensible information about EV charging becomes more and more important.
At the heart of this technological shift lies EV charging, a process essential to keeping vehicles powered and on the move. The establishment of EV charging infrastructure has played a pivotal role in the mainstream adoption of electric vehicles, transforming how we think about transportation and energy consumption.
However, the complexities of charging levels, connectors, and associated costs can be overwhelming for beginners.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide to EV charging basics, diverse charging levels, and types of chargers, while exploring financial aspects, installation guidance, and environmental benefits.
From understanding connector types to tips for efficient charging, this handbook aims to equip beginners with the essential knowledge needed to navigate the world of electric vehicle charging confidently.
EV Charging Explained Simply
Electric vehicle (EV) charging is the process of powering an EV by plugging it into a charger connected to the electricity grid.
There are three main types:
- Slow charging (3 kW) – uses a regular home socket; takes 22–58 hours.
- Fast charging (7–22 kW) – typically at home or workplaces; takes 2–8 hours.
- Rapid charging (50+ kW) – found at service stations; charges 80% in 30–60 minutes.
Charging cables connect the car to the charger, and many EVs can be managed via an app to monitor battery levels and control charging times.
What is EV Charging?
EV charging is required for maintaining the functionality and range of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
It involves the use of an EV charger to deliver electrical current from a power source to the vehicle’s battery. These chargers typically draw from a 240v power source, which is similar to other household appliances.
Most electric vehicles are equipped with J1772 plugs; however, adaptors can facilitate compatibility with alternative plug types, like those used in Tesla charging stations.
The array of EV connectors includes Type 1 and Type 2 for alternating current (AC) charging, and CHAdeMO and Combined Charging System (CCS) for direct current (DC) rapid charging.
The cost-efficiency of charging an EV is often calculated based on kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage, enabling comparisons with traditional refueling to be more accurate.
Importance of EV Charging Infrastructure
The rapid growth of the electric vehicle market necessitates a robust EV charging infrastructure to support expanding demand and enhance user convenience.
In the UK, extensive development of public charging networks strives to offer a smoother experience for EV owners.
Companies like Fastned enhance customer comfort by providing weather-protected charging stations, improving the overall usability during adverse weather conditions. InstaVolt and BP Pulse are becoming ever more visible at various locations throughout the UK.
Widely available, Level 2 chargers offer a significantly improved charging experience over Level 1 chargers, with Europe seeing outputs of up to 22 kW. Notably, even Gridserve has set up dedicated EV forecourts in the UK, representing a strategic commitment to the advancement of exclusive EV charging solutions, ensuring that the infrastructure remains ahead of the ever-growing EV adoption curve.
Levels of EV Charging
Electric vehicle (EV) charging is categorised into three distinct levels:
- Level 1
- Level 2
- and Level 3
Each offering different rates of power and charging speeds.
These levels are vital in understanding how swiftly an electric vehicle can recharge its battery and resume operation.
Level 1 and Level 2 charging operate using alternating current (AC) power, suitable for household and commercial use, while Level 3, or DC Fast Charging, uses direct current (DC) power to charge vehicles at a considerably faster rate.
As public charging infrastructure continues to grow, access to more rapid charging options is becoming increasingly widespread, catering to the growing number of electric vehicle drivers.
Each level serves a specific need, from overnight home charging to swift, on-the-go charging at public stations.
Level 1 Charging: Features and Uses
Level 1 charging is often the most accessible form of EV charging, as it utilises a standard 120v AC outlet, commonly found in UK households.
It charges an EV at a slow pace, delivering between 1 kWh and 1.8 kWh of power. This translates to an addition of 3 to 7 miles of range per hour of charging, making it the slowest option available.
Typically used as a backup solution or for trickle charging, Level 1 can take between 22 to 58 hours to fully charge a battery electric vehicle from empty.
While it is a convenient residential solution provided with most EV purchases, its lack of communication between the vehicle and the outlet can pose safety risks if the outlet cannot handle the electrical load.
Designed for both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), Level 1 charging is best for overnight or long-duration charging at home.
Level 2 Charging: Speed and Suitability
For those seeking a more efficient home or public charging solution, Level 2 charging stands out for its speed and flexibility.
With the ability to deliver between 3.4 kW and 22 kW, Level 2 chargers can provide up to 75 miles of range per hour of charging, vastly outpacing Level 1 in terms of charging speed.
In the United Kingdom, Level 2 chargers typically use 240-volt AC outlets, with capacities reaching up to 19.2kWh to 22kWh. This is where you might install something like an Ohme pod charger at home and plugin overnight.
This allows for significant reductions in charge time, charging vehicles like the Tesla Model Y Long Range in approximately 7.4 hours when operating at peak capacity.
However, installing a Level 2 charger might necessitate upgrades to older residential electrical systems to accommodate increased amperage draws.
Nonetheless, they offer smart features such as RFID authentication, load balancing, and Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) networking, making them suitable for residential, public, and business settings.
Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging): Pros and Cons
Level 3 charging, commonly known as DC Fast Charging, offers the fastest charging experience available for electric vehicles.
By delivering direct current (DC) straight to the EV’s battery, it bypasses the onboard charger, thereby enabling rapid recharging.
Operating at voltages between 300-480 volts, and sometimes up to 800 volts, DC Fast Chargers are designed for short, powerful bursts of energy, ideal for quick recharges during long-distance trips.
This capability makes them an excellent choice for motorway service stations and other public areas, where electric car drivers demand speedy charging to get back on the road swiftly.
However, the infrastructure required for Level 3 charging stations restricts them to commercial or public locations, as their high power demand and voltage requirements make home installation impractical.
The overall efficiency of DC Fast Charging may vary depending on an EV’s battery chemistry and thermal management, which affects the maximum charging rate achievable.
Types of EV Chargers
With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), understanding the types of chargers available is crucial for users. There are two primary categories of chargers:
- Alternating Current (AC)
- Direct Current (DC) charging stations.
These chargers differ in their functionalities and applications.
AC charging stations rely heavily on the vehicle’s onboard charger, which converts AC power from the grid into DC power for the battery.
This setup is commonly used for home charging, where vehicles can be charged overnight or during work hours.
On the other hand, DC chargers have built-in converters that perform this AC-to-DC conversion directly within the station.
This allows them to deliver a high amount of power to the vehicle’s battery more efficiently, making them ideal for rapid charging sessions at public charging points and motorway service stations.
AC vs. DC Charging: Key Differences
The fundamental difference between AC and DC charging is where the conversion from alternating current to direct current happens.
With AC chargers, this conversion occurs inside the vehicle using the onboard charger, which can make the process slower.
Typically, AC chargers are less robust and designed for lower-powered charging and are suitable for home and workplace environments.
They are most commonly provided as Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, supporting overnight charging due to their moderate power delivery.
Conversely, DC chargers handle the conversion within the station itself, bypassing the vehicle’s onboard charger, and can deliver power at significantly higher rates.
This capability enables fast or rapid charging, which is classified as Level 3 charging. In practical terms, DC charging is used for rapid recharge scenarios often needed at service stations, where time-efficient solutions are paramount.
These chargers can provide substantial miles of range in a short amount of time, making them essential for long-distance travel.
Overview of Connector Types: Type 1 vs. Type 2
Understanding connector types is essential for accessing EV charging networks. Type 1 and Type 2 connectors are the most prevalent options among electric car drivers.
Type 1 connectors, known technically as SAE J1772, are primarily used for single-phase AC charging. Historically, these connectors have been found on older models like the first-generation Nissan Leaf, and they are more common in North American vehicles.
Type 2 connectors, known as Mennekes plugs in Europe, have gained global traction due to their versatility. They support both single-phase and three-phase AC charging, as well as DC fast charging.
This has made them the standard for Level 1 and Level 2 public and home charging in Europe and other markets aiming for standardisation.
The Combined Charging System (CCS), which integrates Type 2 connectors, further enhances this by allowing for both AC and DC charging, simplifying the experience and reducing infrastructure complications for widespread adoption.
CHAdeMO and CCS: Understanding Fast Charging Connectors
CHAdeMO and the Combined Charging System (CCS) are integral to fast charging, especially for drivers needing swift recharge options.
Both CHAdeMO and CCS are designed to support high-power transfers, featuring larger connectors and thicker cables to manage the significant energy loads required for rapid charging.
In Europe and North America, CCS is the dominant choice for Level 3 DC fast charging, compatible with most modern electric vehicles due to its dual AC/DC support.
The simplicity of using a single plug for both types of charging has made CCS increasingly popular among public chargers, especially at motorway service stations.
The CHAdeMO connector was initially widespread, notably in older models like early Nissan Leafs.
However, as the industry shifts toward consolidated standards, CHAdeMO’s usage is declining, with many manufacturers and charging networks adopting CCS.
Despite this, some charging stations in regions such as the UK still offer CHAdeMO connectors to support older vehicle models, ensuring that legacy EVs can access public charging infrastructure without issue.
How to Estimate Your EV Charging Costs and Charging Time
The cost of charging an electric vehicle (EV) is an important factor for potential EV owners to understand.
While EVs offer significant cost savings compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, the price of charging can vary depending on several factors. Charging at home tends to be more economical, particularly if you utilize off-peak electricity tariffs.
On the other hand, public charging stations often charge higher rates for the convenience of speedier charging sessions. Additionally, factors such as the vehicle’s battery capacity, the type of charger used, and the electricity rates applicable all influence the overall cost of charging.
Informed charging decisions can lead to optimal savings and broader financial benefits, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable driving experience.
How to Calculate Your Charging Costs Easily
The cost of charging an electric vehicle at home can be significantly lower than using public charging stations.
Home charging is not only convenient but can also come with financial benefits, especially if you leverage specific off-peak tariffs like Intelligent Octopus Go, which can lower costs to as little as 7p/kWh.
How to Calculate EV Charging Costs
To estimate the cost of charging an electric vehicle, simply multiply the battery capacity (in kWh) by the electricity rate (per kWh).
Example:
A 64kWh battery charged at a rate of 7p per kWh would cost:
64 × £0.07 = £4.48 for a full (100%) charge.If you’re only charging to 80%, adjust the cost accordingly:
£4.48 × 0.80 = £3.58 for an 80% charge.
Just update the battery size, electricity rate, and target charge percentage to calculate other scenarios.
Most EV owners can estimate their home charging expenses by multiplying their car’s energy consumption rate per 100 miles by the local electricity rate. The installation of a home charge point typically ranges between £800 and £1200, but it often provides savings over time.
Charging your EV overnight can save up to 30% on energy costs by taking advantage of lower demand periods.
Calculating these costs accurately can provide clear insight into the overall financial benefits of owning an EV and using intelligent charging strategies.
How to Calculate Your Charging Time Easily
The time it takes to charge your electric vehicle (EV), can vary based on the speed of the charger. It can be significantly faster charging at a public rapid charging station than charging from home – but, you should also factor in that the vehicle’s battery does not charge at the same rate throughout the whole charging cycle.
For example, it may charge quicker from 10%-30% than from 30% onwards. This just means, any charging time calculation is an estimate only and may slightly differ, but the calculation provides you a rough guide.
How to Calculate Estimated EV Charging Times
To estimate the time to charging an electric vehicle, simply divide the battery capacity (in kWh) by the charger power (per kWh).
Example:
A 64kWh battery using a charger at a rate of 153 kWh to 0-100% would take:
64 kWh ÷ 153kWh = 42 mins for a full (100%) charge.If you’re only charging to 80%, adjust the cost accordingly:
42 × 0.80 = 34mins for an 80% charge.
Just update the battery size, electricity rate, and target charge percentage to calculate other scenarios.
The faster the charger doesn’t necessarily mean your battery will charge that fast the whole way, and it also depends on the maximum charge your car can take too. But it does provide you an estimate to help plan your journeys.
It also shows you why home charging is best done overnight. For example, this calculation shows you why:
64 kWh ÷ 7.4Wh = 8.7 hours
If you were to charge to 80% overnight, this would take almost 7 hours, but it would cost you considerably less than charging at a fast rapid public charger, and is better for your vehicles battery heath overall. It’s not a good idea to keep charging on rapid chargers as it can degrade your vehicles battery over time.
Public Charging Fees and Membership Plans
Public charging stations play a crucial role for electric car drivers who require charging options away from home.
However, charging fees at these stations are often higher due to the convenience and speed they offer, with rapid charges for larger EV batteries sometimes costing upwards of £60 for a 10-80% charge.
While some public chargers may be free due to promotions or agreements, most charge based on session length and speed. Mobility Service Providers (MSPs) often offer membership plans that allow users to access a wide range of charging networks with a single app or RFID card.
These memberships can include cost-saving benefits, such as consolidated billing and session tracking, and may feature roaming agreements.
Roaming agreements allow members to use multiple networks conveniently, making public charging more seamless and potentially more economical with proper membership planning.
Financial Benefits of Switching to EVs
Switching to an electric vehicle offers substantial financial incentives, primarily through reduced fuel costs.
An EV eliminates the need for expensive trips to petrol/diesel stations, resulting in significant savings over time.
Charging at home, especially during off-peak hours, is considerably cheaper than public charging options, further enhancing the cost-effectiveness of EV ownership.
Making the most of time-of-use tariffs, like Economy 7, can reduce charging expenses even more by providing access to cheaper electricity rates overnight.
Smart home chargers offer internet connectivity to optimise charging times based on real-time electricity rates, enabling additional savings by charging when electricity is cheapest.
Participating in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) programs also allows EV owners to financially benefit by supporting the electric grid, converting their vehicle’s battery into a valuable resource for electricity supply management.
These financial benefits highlight why many are switching to EVs and investing in their future ecological and economic viability.
Installation and Setup
Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is an essential step for many electric car drivers, offering both convenience and cost savings.
With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, understanding the installation and setup process is more important than ever.
Home charging allows EV owners to take advantage of overnight electricity rates and eliminates the frequent need to visit public charging stations. It is a practical solution for achieving maximum range per charge, especially given the wide range of EVs available today.
Before embarking on the installation process, it is beneficial to grasp the various aspects of installation and how they interplay with cost, convenience, and functionality.
Steps for Installing a Home Charger
To begin the process of installing a home charger, one of the first steps is to consider the UK Government’s electric vehicle chargepoint grant.
This grant can reduce the upfront expense by providing up to £350 per socket, which is particularly beneficial for renters and residents of flats.
Installation of a home charger, typically an alternating current (AC) model, is designed to deliver a maximum output of 7kW. This power level enables full vehicle charging within approximately eight hours, making it ideal for overnight charging sessions.
It’s advisable to consult resources like the Electric Vehicle Consumer Code for Home Chargepoints to understand best practices and identify qualified installers.
By following these guidelines, one can ensure a safe and efficient setup.
Integrating the home EV charger with solar panels can offer an eco-friendly way to charge using surplus solar energy.
This approach not only enhances sustainability but also takes advantage of off-peak energy tariffs, potentially reducing charging costs significantly compared to relying solely on public chargers.
Sometimes the cost of the home charger is inluded as part of the sale. for example, Volvo were offering a free Ohme charger and installation for those purchasing an EX30 on PCP.
Choosing an Electrician for Home Charger Installation
Selecting a qualified electrician is crucial for the safe and legal installation of a home EV charging station. This ensures compliance with local electrical codes and the ability to handle the 240-volt outlet typically required for Level 2 chargers.
A professional electrician will evaluate whether your existing power panel and house wiring can support the 30 to 100-amp draw that comes with higher-level charging stations.
For older homes, this evaluation might indicate a need for an upgrade to ensure the home’s electrical system can manage the demands.
Employing a professional electrician not only enhances safety by avoiding potential hazards but also improves the efficiency of the installation process.
Proper installation minimises inconvenience, such as consistently needing to unplug or configure other household appliances to accommodate charging an electric vehicle.
With expert help, electric car drivers can ensure that their home charging station supports their electric vehicle’s maximum rate efficiently, facilitating a seamless transition to sustainable transportation.
Public Charging Networks
Public charging networks are a crucial element in supporting the growing community of electric vehicle (EV) drivers. These networks provide necessary infrastructure for EV users who may not have home charging facilities, ensuring convenient access to power across diverse locations.
In the UK, public charging points can be found in service stations, car parks, supermarkets, cinemas, and along the roadside. This expansive presence assures EV users that their travel plans are not hindered by charging needs, enhancing the feasibility of long-distance journeys.
As of October 2024, there are over 70,000 charge points at 35,800 locations, reflecting significant growth in accessibility.
Prices for public chargers vary, ranging from 57p to 85p per kilowatt-hour, enabling drivers to make informed choices based on cost and convenience.
Charge Point Operators (CPOs) like Equans and TotalEnergies are pivotal in deploying these networks, ensuring the availability of both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) chargers.
Strategic placement of rapid chargers, especially in motorway service stations, caters to drivers on extended trips, reducing downtime during travel.
Finding and Selecting Public Charging Networks
Many EV users are faced with the task of finding suitable charging networks that cater to their specific needs.
With Tesla gradually introducing a limited number of Supercharger stations to non-Tesla vehicles with CCS adapters, the accessibility for various EV brands is increasing.
Prominent networks such as Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint extend their services to all electric vehicles, with flexible payment options including credit cards and mobile apps.
Public charging networks have adapted to offer subscription services at discounted rates, appealing to frequent users.
Aggregators like Zap-Pay and Paua streamline the process by allowing EV drivers to access multiple charging networks with a single app or card.
This simplifies the user’s experience and ensures that they can easily locate and utilise available chargers across different providers, promoting efficiency and convenience in EV charging.
Here are the best apps and route planners:
Compatibility with EV Models
Compatibility between charging networks and EV models is essential to ensure seamless charging experiences.
Most modern electric vehicles are designed with Type 2 connectors for slow/fast AC charging and CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors for rapid DC charging.
This ensures broad compatibility across various charging station outputs, accommodating the needs of most new EV models on the road today.
However, certain older models like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV rely on CHAdeMO connectors for DC charging, requiring owners to seek out compatible stations.
Meanwhile, Type 1 connectors, typically found on older EVs, support AC charging up to 7kW. Adapters may be necessary for these vehicles to connect to the more prevalent Type 2 systems.
Tesla vehicles, known for their proprietary connector, enjoy exclusive compatibility with Tesla Superchargers. Non-Tesla vehicles cannot access these without a CCS adapter, although Tesla’s gradual opening of select stations to other brands is expanding the options for drivers seeking fast charging solutions.
Overall, the evolution of connector standards aims to ensure that a wide range of EV models can benefit from the network of public charging stations, facilitating a more integrated charging infrastructure.
Environmental Benefits of EV Charging
Electric vehicles (EVs) are a significant step toward achieving a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. EV charging, whether at home or via public networks, supports this transition by promoting cleaner energy usage.
One of the key environmental benefits is the potential for EVs to utilise electricity generated from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power.
This allows EV owners to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and limit their carbon footprint. The lithium-ion batteries used in EVs are designed to last over a decade, contributing to sustainability by reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements.
This longevity, combined with the minimal maintenance required for EVs compared to conventional vehicles, underscores a commitment to environmental conservation.
Also, as more people adopt electric vehicles, a significant reduction in carbon emissions can be achieved, helping to combat air pollution and global warming.
Reducing Carbon Footprint with EVs
Electric vehicles play a crucial role in reducing societal carbon footprints by significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
This is especially true when the electricity used to charge EVs is sourced from renewable energy. By tapping into such clean energy sources, EVs help lessen the overall environmental impact and contribute to a decline in global emissions.
In addition to the intrinsic environmental benefits of EVs, government incentives, such as grants for installing home charging points, bolster their adoption.
These programs encourage more individuals to transition to electric cars, further amplifying the reduction of carbon emissions. On a larger scale, public investments in charging infrastructure, including charging stations at service locations and motorway service stations, facilitate widespread use and accessibility of EVs, thus promoting eco-friendly transportation options across cities.
Strategic EV usage, such as utilising eco-mode, further enhances environmental conservation by optimising energy consumption.
Conscientious charging practices, like avoiding frequent rapid charging and maintaining battery levels within a moderate range, not only extend the life of the battery but also minimize waste.
Following these practices, electric car drivers can ensure that their vehicles contribute to a sustainable future while reducing adverse environmental impacts associated with battery disposal.
Tips for Efficient EV Charging
Efficiently charging an electric vehicle (EV) is crucial for maintaining battery health and ensuring smooth travels.
A key tip for preserving your EV’s battery life is to keep its charge between 20% and 80%. This range is considered optimal for battery longevity, preventing deep discharges and overcharging, which can degrade the battery over time.
Additionally, when charging at public stations or home setups, it’s wise to utilise the right charger type that matches your EV’s onboard charger capacity for maximum efficiency.
For home charging, installing a dedicated chargepoint can be both cost-effective and convenient, allowing overnight charging at lower electricity rates. If your vehicle’s charging plug isn’t compatible with a charging station, adaptors are available to bridge this gap, ensuring you can still top up when needed.
Maximising Battery Life and Range
Maximising your EV’s battery life and driving range requires attention to several factors. First and foremost, maintaining your battery’s charge level between 20% and 80% is key to prolonging its life.
This careful management prevents stress on the battery and enhances its overall lifespan. When on the road, driving at a steady pace and avoiding abrupt stops can significantly reduce energy consumption, which in turn conserves battery power and maximises your miles of range.
Pre-conditioning your EV—heating or cooling it while it’s plugged in rather than relying on the battery—can also provide energy savings by conserving the stored electricity for actual driving.
For everyday driving, activating your vehicle’s eco-mode can prioritise energy-efficient processes, allowing you to stretch each charge further and get the most out of every kilowatt-hour.
Planning Long-distance Trips with EVs
Planning a long journey with your electric vehicle can be straightforward with the right preparation.
Many modern EVs come equipped with sophisticated navigation systems that not only locate nearby charging stations but also plan routes, directing drivers to charge-points within reach.
This makes long-distance travel, once a challenge due to range anxiety, more manageable.
A decade ago, limited ranges like that of the 109-mile Nissan LEAF meant careful planning was essential, but today, the expansion of public charging networks, including rapid chargers and Super Chargers at motorway service stations, has mitigated these concerns.
Utilisation of regenerative braking—recovering energy typically lost during slowing down—not only adds additional miles of range but also contributes to a more efficient drive.
By using these planning tools and strategies, EV drivers can embark on long-distance trips with greater confidence and ease.
Charge For Only What You Need When Using Public Chargers
If you have an EV, it’s likely you’ll have a home charger. This means when you’re out and about and on longer journeys, simply charge and plan to charge your vehicle for only what you need.
Ideally, you want to start any long journey on a 90-100% charge.
However, if you need to stop either on your way during a really long drive to your destination, or on your way back, only charge to what you need to reduce not only charging time but also cost.
For example, if on your way back your charge gets to 20% or slightly below, don’t then charge your vehicle up to 90-100%, simply charge it enough to get you home. For example, perhaps just 40% to get you up to 60% overall battery.
If you do the maths, imagine a public charger of 153 kWh and your vehicle has a 64 kWh battery. Charging from 20% to 80% is going to take 25 mins roughly to add the 60%. If you however, you just charge to 60% charge, it will take just about 16 minutes, which will likely get you home and be much cheaper.
It also frees up the chargers for other EV users.
Plan Your Charging
Your EV doesn’t always have to be fully charged. If you’re intending just to potter around town and do a few local short journeys, you can simply charge your vehicle to 90% on the Sunday and perhaps charge it in 4-5 days.
Ideally, you never want the vehicle to be below 10% (as it will likely use battery power overnight to apply over-the-air updates), but neither do you need to keep your vehicle constantly topped up.
If you think about it, you wouldn’t top up your petrol car ever time you use it and it’s the same for electric vehicles too. You just need to plan in advance what your journeys will look like to ensure your vehicle is appropriately charged.
Charging too often and using rapid chargers constantly will ultimately wear your battery much faster.
Set a Maximum Charge and Power Rate
Make sure you set a maximum home charge such as to 80%, ideally charge overnight (to reduce your charging costs) and set the power limit of your home charger in relation to your electric vehicles capacity.
For example if your maximum home charger power is 7.5kWh don’t leave it set to 153 kWh. Don’t forget to also set when you wish the charging to start and stop.
This is particularly important when using services provided by Octopus Energy – otherwise your vehicle will charge outside the cheapest overnight tariffs and cost you unnecessary charging fees when home charging.
FAQs
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for consumers due to their environmental benefits and technological advancements.
As the number of electric car drivers grows, so does the interest in understanding EV charging, which is a critical aspect of owning an electric vehicle.
If you have never had EV charging explained to you, then this section addresses some frequently asked questions (FAQS) to help new and potential EV owners navigate the world of EV charging.
How to Locate Nearby Charging Stations?
With more cities investing in electric vehicle infrastructure, finding a public charging station has never been easier. Drivers can locate nearby charging points using specialised apps such as:
Provide comprehensive maps of charging locations.
These apps allow users to filter by connector type, charger type, and charging speeds, ensuring compatibility with their vehicle’s requirements.
For Tesla owners, the built-in navigation system offers a simple way to find Tesla Superchargers and Destination Chargers, exclusively designed for their cars.
Charging stations are now common in various settings, like service stations, car parks, supermarkets, and roadsides, which enhances their accessibility.
However, some stations might require membership access, including a physical card or a mobile device login. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law anticipates further expansion, aiming to establish 500,000 more charging stations, thus increasingly supporting the transition to electric vehicles nationwide.
Are All EVs Compatible with Every Charger?
Not all electric vehicles are compatible with every charger, making it essential for EV owners to understand their vehicle’s charging needs.
Compatibility primarily depends on the connector type, which varies across different models. Most modern EVs use Type 1 or Type 2 connectors for alternating current (AC) charging. Type 2 is more common in newer stations, but older vehicles may need an adapter to connect to these stations.
For non-rapid charging sessions, EV drivers usually must provide their own cable. Thankfully, most vehicles come with the necessary cable, simplifying home charging on a Level 1 or Level 2 charger.
Rapid chargers, on the other hand, feature tethered cables, permanently attached to the station. While this setup supports faster charging, it may limit compatibility with certain vehicles.
Tesla Superchargers, equipped with the Combined Charging System (CCS) for direct current (DC) rapid charging, have expanded to accommodate non-Tesla vehicles in certain areas, although availability varies by location.
Understanding these charging nuances is crucial for ensuring efficient and effective charging experiences, enabling drivers to enjoy a wide range of mileage and convenient stops at service stations on their travels.
How Much Does EV Charging Cost?
Costs can vary, but it’s certainly cheaper than paying for a tank of petrol or diesel (though it does take longer to “fill up” in this case the battery.
If you charge up at home and your car has a 64kWh battery and your home electricity overnight is 7p per kW, then it would cost 64 x 0.07 = £4.48.
If you charged the same vehicle, at a public charger, and the cost was 81p per kWh, then the cost would be 64 x 0.81 = £51.84.
So you can see how much cheaper home charging is – even if it takes longer.
Summary
The article “EV Charging Explained: A Beginner’s Guide” provides an overview of electric vehicle (EV) charging options and compatibility issues.
It highlights:
- Charging stations, commonly found in service areas, car parks, and supermarkets, vary in accessibility, with some requiring memberships.
- That not all EVs are compatible with every charger due to different connector types like Type 1, Type 2, and CCS, with Type 2 being prevalent for AC charging.
- Rapid chargers have tethered cables for fast charging, but may limit compatibility for some vehicles.
- Tesla Superchargers, traditionally for Tesla cars, are being adapted to serve non-Tesla vehicles in certain locations.
- There is a bit more to home charging than simply plugging your vehicle into the socket.
Knowing the key details outlined in this article, ensures hassle free and efficient charging experiences, supporting greater range and convenience for any EV drivers. In a nutshell, driving an EV is different to a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, but with careful planning, the experience can be fun and anxiety free.
