At a glance
Charging an EV can take between 20 minutes and 8 hours, depending on the type of charger and car, plus other variables.
New and prospective drivers often want to know how long it will take them to charge their EVs. There’s no one answer: it depends on the type of the size of your car’s battery, the type of charging station, and how low your battery is when you start the charge. On average though, a full charge takes between six and 10 hours.
These are the factors that can help you determine how long it will take to charge your car.
Types of charging
There are different power output levels. The higher the level, the faster the charge.
Level 1 charging (AC)
Where: Usually found at homes and can be connected to the home circuit Type: Slowest, typically around 2.3 kWh Average time to fully charge from empty: 11 to 20 hours
Level 2 charging (AC)
Where: Homes and larger residential and commercial properties Speed: Moderate, usually offering about 11kW or 22kW of range per hour Average time to fully charge from empty: 3-8 hours
Level 3 charging (DC)
Where: Public charge stations Speed: Fastest, capable of adding 50-300 kW of range. Average time to full charge from empty: Approximately 8-20 minutes for an 80% charge (this short charge time to reach 80% can only be reached with maximum-capacity chargers)
Battery size
A larger battery will take longer to charge.
Temperature
Batteries operate best within a certain temperature range, usually between 20°C to 25°C. If you leave your car in the cold overnight or in the sun in summer, and your battery gets cooler or warmer, it might take a bit longer to charge.
Time of day
If you charge your car during peak hours, it could take longer as more energy is drawn from the grid.
Battery level
If your EV is above 80% or below 20%, the charge speed will be less.
Good charge habits to preserve battery life
- Plan ahead: Use level 2 charging for everyday charges and reserve DC fast charging for long trips or emergencies.
- Smart charging: Charge during off-peak hours to benefit from lower electricity rates and reduced grid demand.
- Regular maintenance: Keep your EV's battery system in check to ensure optimal charging performance.
04 April 2024
The differences between AC and DC chargers
In a world where electric vehicles (EVs) are fast becoming the ride of choice for eco-conscious drivers, the conversation around EV charging technology is more relevant than ever. Since they impact the speed – and cost – of your charge sessions, it’s important to note the difference between AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) chargers.
14 February 2024
How much does it cost to charge an EV at public stations?
Public EV charge pricing is never static, and can vary from one charge session to the next. This is because charging costs are influenced by so many variables – from your charging method and location, to the weather and how you drive your car. And while some variables are in your control such as the type of charge and location you choose, others aren’t, like the price of electricity and other tariffs that the charge station owner or operator adds.
11 March 2024
What is an EV charging app?
While your EV will take you from point A to point B, it’s your app that will help you find charge stations, navigate you there, give you real-time information of stations (including pricing) and track all your charging activity.