Best Ways to Charge Your Electric Car

There are over 1 million fully electric cars in the UK, and one of the most common questions new or aspiring electric vehicle (EV) drivers have is, “What is the best way to charge an electric car?” As the market continues to expand, the convenience and efficiency of charging become a serious matter for current and potential EV owners alike.

In this article, we delve into the best strategies for charging your electric vehicle, focusing on the most efficient and convenient methods to keep your car charged and ready to go. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or considering making the switch, understanding the best powering practices is key to maximising your EV’s potential and ensuring a smooth, worry-free driving experience.

Home Charging

The easiest way to charge your car is to plug it in overnight and allow it to slowly fill up while you sleep. This method, known as home charging, is the bedrock of the electric vehicle experience, offering unparalleled convenience and simplicity. By making use of this downtime, you can ensure that your EV is fully charged and ready for the day ahead without any disruption to your daily routine.

Choosing the Right Home Charger

The most popular choice among EV owners when setting up a home point is the Level 2 charger. This option strikes an ideal balance between speed and practicality, typically providing a full charge in just a few hours. Unlike the slower Level 1 charger, which can take upwards of 24 hours for a full charge, Level 2 chargers operate on a 240V system (similar to large household appliances) and can be a game-changer for your charging routine.

When selecting a charger, consider factors such as power output, which determines how quickly your car will charge, and cable length, which affects where you can park your vehicle in relation to the station. Additionally, many modern chargers come with smart features that allow you to monitor and control charging from your smartphone, enhancing convenience and allowing for more efficient energy use.

Installation Tips

For the installation of a Level 2 home charger, it’s highly recommended to enlist the services of a professional electrician. They will ensure that the installation complies with local regulations and safety standards and can assess whether your home’s electrical system requires any upgrades to accommodate the added load.

Costs and Incentives

The cost of home charging an EV can vary depending on factors like your vehicle type, charger power rating, and electricity costs. To get a precise estimate tailored to your situation, including how long it takes and the cost per mile, tools like Zapmap’s EV Home Charging Calculator are available. This tool allows users to input details specific to their vehicle to calculate the exact costs.

Maximising Efficiency

To maximise the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of home charging, consider scheduling your powering sessions during off-peak electricity hours, typically at night. This not only takes advantage of lower rates but also reduces the strain on the electrical grid, contributing to more sustainable energy consumption patterns.

Work Charging

For those lucky enough to have it available to them, workplace charging can be a lifesaver. This convenient amenity not only extends the daily range of your reliable car but also capitalises on the time spent parked during work hours to ensure your car is charged and ready for the journey home or any errands in between. As more businesses recognise the value of supporting sustainable transportation, these stations are becoming an increasingly common perk offered by employers.

Availability and Access

The availability of charging facilities at work varies greatly between companies and locations. For those with access, it often involves a simple process of registering your vehicle with your employer and following any guidelines they have in place. The benefits of workplace powering extend beyond the individual, offering employers a way to contribute to environmental sustainability and potentially attract and retain employees who value green initiatives.

Workplace Charging Policies

Companies offering workplace charging often establish policies to manage the demand and ensure fair access for all employee EV drivers. These policies might include a rotating schedule, a nominal fee to discourage long-term parking once powering is complete, or a limit on the total charging time per session.

Public Charging

Whether you’re primarily powering at home or work, you’ll only be able to access the fastest charging speeds at public locations. Public networks are equipped with high-powered stations, including Level 3 DC Fast Chargers, which are designed to provide a rapid charge and are especially beneficial for long-distance travel. These points can add significant range to an electric vehicle in just minutes, making them the quickest way to recharge on the go.

Locating Charging Stations

Finding public points has become increasingly easier thanks to a variety of electric car charging apps, like OVO Charge, and websites dedicated to mapping out charging infrastructure. These tools not only show you the locations of nearby stations but also provide detailed information about the type of chargers available, their speeds, and even their current occupancy status. Planning your trips with these resources ensures that you always know where your next charge will come from, reducing range anxiety and making long trips more feasible.

Charging Network Memberships

Many public charging stations are operated by networks that offer memberships or subscription services. Membership in one or more of these can provide several advantages, such as reduced rates, easier payment options, and access to a broader range of locations.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, EV drivers are spoilt for choice when it comes to keeping their rides juiced up and ready to roll. Whether you’re tucking your car in for a cosy overnight charge at home, topping off the battery at work, or zipping into a public charging spot for a quick power boost, the options are as plentiful as they are convenient. So plug in, power up, and enjoy the journey into the electrified future that awaits.