Transitioning to an Electric Vehicle (EV) takes a little bit of getting used to, especially when it comes to keeping your battery charged and overcoming ‘range anxiety’ (running out of battery) which takes planning. That is, until there are enough EV charging stations across our cities and towns, that this no longer becomes a factor.
Until that time, EV drivers are going to want to know ‘how much time does it take to charge my vehicle’?
The time it takes to charge an electric car can vary depending on several factors, such as the battery size, the charging infrastructure, and the charging method used. There are generally three levels of charging for electric cars:
- Level 1 Charging (Standard Household Outlet): This is
the slowest charging method, typically providing around 10 to 20
kilometers of range per hour. For a full charge, it can take anywhere from
5 to 16 hours, depending on the battery size and the initial state of
charge.
- Level 2 Charging (22kW Charging Station): This is a
more common and faster method used in homes and public charging stations.
Level 2 charging can provide around 30 to 120 kilometers of range per
hour, so a full charge might take around 1 to 5 hours.
- DC Fast Charging (Level 3 Charging): This is the
fastest charging option available and is commonly found at public
fast-charging stations along highways or major routes. DC fast chargers
can add significant range to the battery in a short period, providing
around 250 to 500 kilometers of range in just 20 to 60 minutes. However,
it’s worth noting that using DC fast charging extensively can have an
impact on the battery’s long-term health.
The charging time also depends on the state of charge when you start charging. If the battery is nearly empty, it will take longer to charge fully compared to topping up a partially charged battery. While the AC slower long stay chargers are cheaper and sometimes free to use, the DC fast chargers usually come at a premium cost.
Please note: Always refer to the car manufacturer’s
specifications and the charging station’s capabilities for the most accurate
information on charging times.