How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Car?

Electric vehicles (EVs) have rapidly gained popularity as more drivers switch to greener, more sustainable transportation options. A crucial question when considering an EV is how long it takes to charge an electric car. Unlike conventional petrol or diesel cars, EVs rely on electric car battery charging, which varies depending on various factors.

In this blog, we will explore the different EV charging methods, how long it takes to charge an EV, and the key factors that affect electric car charging time.

Are you also looking for reliable EV charger installations in Kent for your electric car?

Well, worry not. With over 1000 EV charger installations, the expert electricians at EVC Electrical Installations have the skills to make the installation process as quick and smooth as possible.

Call us on 01322 761101 or drop us an email at office@evcinstalls.co.uk for our services.

What Are the Different EV Charging Methods?

An EV can be charged using three main methods: home charging, public charging, and fast charging. Each method varies in terms of charging speed, duration, and convenience.

Let’s break them down:

1. Home Charging

Home charging is the most convenient and affordable for most EV owners. This typically involves plugging your EV into a regular wall socket (using a standard 3-pin plug) or a dedicated home EV charger. Home charging generally provides slower EV charging speeds, with the charging time often taking overnight or up to 12 hours to reach a full charge, depending on the car’s battery capacity.

2. Public Charging

Public charging points are becoming increasingly available across the UK, typically in car parks, shopping centres, and public areas. These chargers are generally faster than home chargers, with charging times ranging from a few hours to a full charge, depending on the charging point and EV model. The speed of public charging also varies depending on whether the charger is slow, fast, or rapid.

3. Fast And Rapid Charging

Fast and rapid charging is designed for quicker top-ups when you need to get back on the road quickly. Rapid chargers, which are often found at motorway service stations and dedicated charging hubs, can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. These chargers offer the fastest EV charging speeds but are typically more expensive than slower charging methods.

Factors Affecting EV Charging Time

Several factors can influence the time it takes to charge an EV. Here are the key aspects that determine EV charging duration:

1. EV Battery Size And Capacity

The size of your electric car battery charging significantly affects the overall charging time. Larger batteries (such as those found in long-range EV models) require more charging time than smaller batteries. For instance, a battery with a capacity of 40 kWh will generally charge faster than a more extensive 100 kWh battery.

2. Charging Speed

The charging speed of the power source you’re using is another crucial factor. Home chargers typically provide a slower EV charging speed (around 3-7 kW), while fast chargers offer more powerful outputs (usually around 22 kW or more). Rapid chargers can deliver much higher speeds, up to 50 kW, significantly reducing EV charging time.

3. State Of Charge (SOC)

The current charge level in your EV’s battery also impacts how long it will take to charge fully. If your battery is nearly empty, it will take longer to charge than partially charged. Most EV owners tend to top up their cars during the day rather than fully depleting the battery, so this is often less of a concern.

4. EV Battery Technology

EV technology is advancing rapidly; newer electric cars often come equipped with more efficient batteries that charge faster. Some models feature EV batteries that accept higher charging currents, allowing them to charge more quickly than older models with less efficient batteries.

5. External Temperature

Cold weather can significantly slow down electric car battery charging times. Lower temperatures affect the battery’s efficiency, leading to longer charging times. Conversely, charging times are quicker in warmer weather, but extreme heat can also negatively impact battery health.

Average Charging Times For Different EV Charging Methods

To give you a clearer idea of how long it will take to charge your EV, here are some general estimates for each charging method:

1. Home charging (Standard 3-pin plug or dedicated home charger)

• Charging time: 8-12 hours
• Best for: Overnight charging or when you don’t need a full charge immediately.
• EV charging speed: 3-7 kW (depending on the charger).

2. Public charging (Fast charger)

• Charging time: 3-5 hours (for a full charge)
• Best for: Longer trips or a quicker charge but not an immediate top-up.
• EV charging speed: 7-22 kW.

3. Public charging (Rapid charger)

• Charging time: 30 minutes to 1 hour (80% charge)
• Best for: Short stops or when you need a significant charge in a short amount of time.
• EV charging speed: 50 kW and above.

Tips To Speed Up EV Charging

While EV charging efficiency is continually improving, there are ways to ensure that you’re maximising your charging time and efficiency:

• Use the correct charger: Always use the highest EV charging speed. If you need a quick top-up, use a rapid charger instead of a slower home charger.
• Charge during off-peak hours: Some electricity providers offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours (usually at night). Charging your EV at these times can save money and ensure you have a full charge when needed.
• Keep the battery between 20-80%: It’s generally advised to keep your EV’s charge level between 20% and 80% for optimal battery health and faster charging.

Final Thoughts

Several factors, including the charging speed, battery size, temperature, and charger type, influence EV charging time.

At EVC Electrical Installations, we understand the importance of efficient and reliable EV charging for your electric vehicle. Since our establishment in 2019, we’ve built a reputation for delivering top-quality service with a personal touch. Our small, close-knit team of fully qualified experts specialises in electric vehicle charge point installations, ensuring we meet your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a home charger or an upgrade, we take the time to understand your requirements and recommend the right solution so that you can charge your EV efficiently.

Trust us to provide a high-quality, tailored installation using only premium products so you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of fast, reliable EV charging.

Contact us today to schedule your EV charging installation!