Charging an electric vehicle
Charging points and sockets
Your electric vehicle will either have a type 1 or type 2 charging socket. Type 2 is the most common and can be used for slow or fast charging. Some vehicles allow CHAdeMO or CCS for DC rapid charging.
Rapid chargers usually have a charging cable already attached to them however AC chargers will only have a socket so you will need to carry your own cable. Carrying your own cable means you can access any universal electric chargers. Charging cables have two connectors, one connector will go into the charge point socket and the other end will connect to your electric vehicle.
To have a charging point installed at your home, you will need off road parking and a space for this to be installed. If you are looking to have a charging point installed, Utility Pro’s can provide you with a free, no obligation quote. Please contact us.
How to charge your electric vehicle
You will usually charge your vehicle at home, at your workplace or using public charging points. It is good practise to charge your car whenever it is parked to prevent the battery running empty. When taking a longer journey, you may need to stop to use a public charging point.
It is best to pre-plan your journey – please see our guide.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle
Generally, charging an electric vehicle can take anywhere between 30 minutes – 12+ hours. This varies depending on different factors such as the charging rate, vehicles battery size & connectors.
Rapid chargers are commonly found at motorway service stations & although they do not charge a vehicle’s battery to its full capacity (100%), can provide plenty of charge for most vehicles within 30 minutes. They are intended to allow the driver to continue with their journey and it should cover around 3.5 miles per kWh depending on the efficiency of your EV.
Costs of charging an electric vehicle
Costs of EV charging depend on the price per kWh and where your vehicle is parked.
A 30 minute charge using a public rapid charger, usually costs around £11. This is based on a 50kW charge point, using a tariff of 44p per kWh.
A full charge at home, usually costs around £15.10. This is based on a 54kWh battery and an electricity rate of 28p per kWh.
Charging at a workplace is often free with access controlled via apps or RFID cards.
Public charging points with 7kW chargers are often also free.