If you're considering making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), one of the most common questions people ask is, "How long does it take to charge an EV?"
The answer isn't as straightforward as it might seem, as charging times can vary greatly depending on several factors.
Let's break down the key elements that influence charging speed:
The Type of Charger
- Public Fast Chargers: These are the fastest options, capable of adding 80 miles of range in as little as 30 minutes. However, they're often found in built up areas and at motorway service stations.
- Public Slow Chargers: These are typically found in residential areas or smaller retail parks and offer slower charging speeds, adding around 3-4 miles of range per hour.
- Home Chargers: These are ideal for overnight charging and can add 20-30 miles of range per hour.
The Car's Battery Capacity
- Larger battery capacity means longer charging times. For example, a car with a 70kWh battery will take longer to charge than one with a 40kWh battery.
The Car's Charging Rate
- Some EVs have faster charging capabilities than others, meaning they can accept more power from the charger.
The Battery's State of Charge
- Charging speeds tend to be faster when the battery is nearly empty and slower as it approaches full capacity.
- Low temperatures can also cause a slower charging speed.
So, How Long Does It Typically Take?
Power Output | Small EV (25 kWh) | Medium EV (50 kWh) | Large EV (75 kWh) |
2.3 kW | 10h30m | 24h30m | 32h45m |
7.4 kW | 3h45m | 7h45m | 10h |
11 kW | 2h | 5h15m | 6h45m |
22 kW | 1h | 3h | 4h30m |
120 kW | 11m | 22m | 33m |
240 kW | 6m | 12m | 17m |
The charging times mentioned here are a guide only and can vary based on factors like the charger, vehicle type, and temperature.
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