Array ( [FuelType] => Array ( [Name] => Electric [Value] => E ) )
EV charging can be broken down into three categories: rapid, fast and slow.
Rapid Charging– this can be AC & DC, which are charging at 43kW and 50kW allowing you to charge your EV in around 30 minutes. Some manufacturers have produced their own chargers, for example the Tesla Superchargers, which is a Rapid DC and will give you around 120kW.
Fast Charging– will enable you to charge your EV in approximately 3-4 hours. Output is on average between 7kW and 22kW.
Slow Charging– with up to 3kW, these chargers are best to be used overnight as it could take up to 6-12 hours to charge a pure EV and between 3-4 hours for a PHEV.
Most drivers will choose to charge their vehicle at the convenience of their own home. As home charging is in general a bit slower than rapid charging, most EV users will do this overnight, so the vehicle is ready for use next day.
A dedicated home unit will allow you to simply plug in your vehicle and charge. Normally there are 2 options available: a standard type Two socket, where you plug your charging cable into the vehicle or a built-in tether cable which goes directly to your car. When choosing the later option, you should bear in mind that the cables are specifically designed for vehicles and when you change car manufacturer you may find that the connector is no longer suitable.
Depending on your vehicle and power output of your homecharge unit –output will be on average 3.6kW or 7kW. For example the Nissan Leaf will take 13 hours for a full charge on a 3kw home charger and will cost you £5.60, on a 7Kw will only take 6 hours.
The costs varies and depends on whether you go for a standard type Two Socket or a built-in tether cable, the last option is generally more expensive. To promote EV vehicles the Government has introduced a grant of up to £500 for installation of a home charger unit. The supplier will organise the paperwork you only have to pay the remaining balance. More information is available here.
With the growing number of charging points around the UK, suppliers are now putting in charging points in residential areas. The government has also introduced grants for local councils to encourage public residential charging points – speak to your local authority to see whether there is a scheme available in your area.
With more drivers choosing electric vehicles over recent years, the numbers of charging points around the UK have rapidly increased. There are different providers available but the largest are: Chargemaster Polar, Charge your Car, Pod Point and Ecotricity.
If you are planning to use any of the charging points around the country, it is worth checking payment methods, as often you will need to register prior to using this. Some of the charging points are free to use, whilst others you will be charged for the mileage /electricity used, you can either pay via an App or a RFID card.
The map below will you help you to locate the closest public charging point.