How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car? The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is rising. One common question from buyers is, “How long does it take to charge an electric car?” With the rise of electric vehicles on Australian roads and an increasing network of public charging stations, understanding how long it takes to charge your vehicle is essential for current and prospective owners. As an Australian electrical engineer, I’m here to offer insights on the various factors influencing EV charging time, helping you make informed decisions about EV ownership.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car Fully?
Charging an electric vehicle takes different amounts of time. This depends on the charging method, the equipment used, and the battery capacity of the vehicle. Charging your EV at home with a standard outlet takes about 12 to 24 hours. This time varies with the battery size and charger type.
Using public charging stations or EV charging points will considerably shorten the time. Level 2 charging usually takes 4 to 8 hours to fully charge a standard EV. In contrast, rapid chargers (or DC fast chargers) can charge to 80% in just 30 minutes to 1 hour.
How Fast Do Electric Cars Charge?
The speed of charging an electric car relies on some factors, including the charging method used and the car’s battery capacity.
- Level 1 charging (standard household outlets) is the slowest, providing only about 2-5 km of range per hour.
- Level 2 charging (AC chargers) gives about 20-40 km of range each hour. This makes them great for daily use at home or public stations.
- Level 3 charging (DC rapid chargers) is the fastest, delivering 200-400 km of range per hour and charging the battery to 80% in 30 minutes to 1 hour.
How much time does it take to charge an electric car at a charging station?
At public charging stations or EV charging points, the duration required to charge your vehicle depends on the charger type. Public stations usually offer Level 2 charging, which takes 4-8 hours for a full charge. Yet, rapid chargers in high-traffic areas, such as highways, can charge up to 80% in 30 minutes to 1 hour.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car at Home?
Charging at home is one of the most convenient options for EV drivers in Australia. If you use a Level 1 charging station (a regular household outlet), it will take 12 to 24 hours to fully charge your car. Level 2 charging is faster. A full charge usually takes 4 to 8 hours, so it’s great for overnight use.
Many drivers find charging overnight at home to be the best option. It guarantees a full charge for their vehicle each day. Plus, it saves time during daily activities.
What is top-up charging?
Top-up charging refers to charging your electric car for a shorter period, typically when it’s not entirely drained. For example, if your vehicle has a 40% battery, you can plug it in for a quick top-up while out without needing a full charge. This is especially helpful for keeping your vehicle charged during the day or on long trips. You might need a bit more power then.
How Much Range Do You Get Per Hour of Charging
The range added per hour depends on the type of charger being used. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Level 1 (Standard Outlet): Adds about 2-5 km of range per hour.
- Level 2 (AC Charging): Adds around 20-40 km of range per hour.
- Level 3 (Rapid Charging): Adds 200-400 km of range per hour.
For example, if you charge your EV at a Level 2 charging point for 4 hours, you could gain up to 160 km of range, which is typically enough for a day’s commute.
Factors That Affect Charging Speed
Several factors affect the charging process and speed of an electric vehicle. Understanding these factors can help you better estimate how long it will take to charge your car.
Charging Level and Mode
The type of charger you use plays an important role in the speed of charging. Level 1 charging is the slowest, while Level 3 rapid chargers are the fastest. Level 2 charging balances speed and convenience and is commonly used for daily charging.
Typical Charge Rates:
- Level 1: Adds 2-5 km of range per hour.
- Level 2: Adds 20-40 km of range per hour.
- Level 3: Adds 200-400 km of range per hour.
Charging ports, plugs, and cables
The charging port and plug used can affect the charging process. In Australia, Type 2 plugs are standard for most modern electric vehicles and are typically used with Level 2 charging.
EV Plugs in Australia:
- Type 2 plugs are now the norm for EVs in Australia, offering faster charging speeds than older Type 1 plugs.
EV Cable Charging Capacity:
The capacity of the charging cable influences how much power can be transferred to the car. If you’re using a rapid charger, ensure your cable is rated to handle higher power levels.
On-Board Charging Capacity and Battery Size
The on-board charger in your EV determines how much power it can accept at any given time. Vehicles with higher charging capacity will charge faster. Additionally, larger electric car batteries will take longer to charge due to the increased energy required.
Battery State of Charge (SoC)
The state of charge (SoC) refers to the battery’s current charge level. Charging a battery from 10% to 80% will typically take less time than charging it from 80% to 100%. Most EVs are designed to charge more slowly as they near full capacity to protect the battery.
Battery temperature
Battery temperature plays a significant role in charging speed. In cold weather, the battery may need to warm up before charging begins, leading to longer charging times. Extreme heat can also reduce charging speed and damage the battery over time.
Electrical Architecture
The vehicle’s electrical setup, especially its power systems, can impact charging speed. Some vehicles may have limitations in their internal systems, slowing down the rate at which the battery absorbs power.
How to Estimate the Charging Time for Electric Vehicles
To estimate the charging time for your electric vehicle, consider the following factors:
- Charging Level and Mode: Identify whether you’re using Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 rapid chargers.
- On-Board Charging and Battery Size: Know your vehicle’s maximum charging and battery capacity.
- State of Charge (SoC): Check how much charge is left in the battery while charging.
- Charging Ports and Cables: Ensure you use the appropriate charging plugs and cables for your vehicle’s charging capacity.
What is destination charging?
Destination charging refers to charging stations at specific locations such as hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots. These stations typically offer Level 2 charging, allowing you to charge your car daily. Destination charging is a convenient option for long-distance trips or when you need to top up your battery at a destination.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of how long it takes to charge an electric car is not a one-size-fits-all answer. It relies on factors like the type of charger used, the vehicle’s battery capacity, and its current charge level. Charging methods and times matter. They help you plan well, whether you charge overnight at home or use a rapid charger on a road trip.
Australia’s electric vehicle charging network is growing. Soon, charging your EV will be faster and easier. Knowing what affects charging times helps you enjoy your EV more. It ensures your car is ready for your next adventure.