How long does it take to charge an EV? A brief guide to EV charging times.

The big question in a lot of driver's minds is 'How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle (EV)'. The electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape is diverse, with a range of charging speeds to cater to different needs. Let's dive into the specifics to help you choose the best option for your EV.

1. Slow Charging:

• Description: Slow charging offers the longest charging times. Commonly found in public spots, these chargers are also the portable kind that come with a three-pin plug suitable for home use.
• Charging time: A 40kWh Nissan Leaf might take close to 12 hours, while some larger EVs might take up to 36 hours.
• Advantage: Great for overnight charging. The slow charging rate generates less heat, potentially extending battery life.

2. Fast Charging:

• Description: Quickly becoming a go-to choice, especially for homes. These chargers generally run on AC supply, either at 7kW (common for home wall-mounted boxes) or 22kW (usually at public spots).
• Charging time: A 40kWh Nissan Leaf might charge in six hours on a 7kW charger. For a 75kW Tesla, it's about 12 hours.
• Advantage: Halves the charging time compared to slow chargers.

3. Rapid Charging:

• Description: The quickest charging method, with some chargers capable of powering up to 80% of your battery in just 20 minutes. These are often found at major highways or dedicated hubs.
• Charging time: A 40kWh Nissan Leaf might reach 80% in an hour using a 50kW charger, while a 75kWh Tesla might need the same time on a 150kW charger.
• Advantage: Quick charging, especially during long journeys.

Top-Up Charging:
Instead of waiting for your battery to drain, the idea is to charge your EV whenever there's an opportunity. This might be during a shopping trip or while parked on the street. It reduces the stress of "range anxiety" as your car is frequently charged.

Range Per Hour:
The mileage you gain per hour of charging depends on your charger. A standard 3kW might give you 10 miles in an hour, a 7kW charger around 30 miles, and a rapid 50kW charger could provide up to 175 miles.

Factors Influencing Charging Speed:

• Battery Size: Larger batteries take longer.
• Initial Charge: The first 80% charges faster than the last 20%.
• Your Car's Adapter: It will limit the charging rate.
• Weather: Cold weather can slow down the charging process, even if the vehicle has battery heating systems.

Your EV charging experience will be shaped by multiple factors, from your car's specifications to the type of charger you use. Understanding these will help you make the most of your EV journey.