How long does it take to charge an Electric Car?
Are you curious about how long it takes to charge an electric car? Well, you’re in the right place! In this complete guide, we will explore the factors that affect charging speed, different charging speeds and their corresponding charging times, as well as tips for efficient charging.
Whether you’re considering getting an electric car or already own one, understanding the charging process is crucial. So, let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know!
Factors That Affect Charging Speed
When it comes to charging your electric car, there are several key factors that can affect the speed of the charging process.
First, the charging source output plays a crucial role in determining how quickly your vehicle can recharge.
Additionally, the type of charging input, whether it’s AC or DC, can also impact the charging speed.
Other factors to consider include the size of battery, temperature, and the current battery percentage.
Charging Source Output
To maximize the charging speed of your electric car, make sure to use a charging source with a high output rate. The charging source output, measured in kilowatts (kW), plays a crucial role in determining the charging speed of your electric car. A higher output rate means faster charging times.
If you have a charging source with a low output rate, it will take longer to charge your electric car. The charging speed also depends on factors like the battery capacity of your electric car. A larger battery capacity will take more time to charge, even with a high output charging source.
- ~2kW AC: Three-pin domestic plug trickle charging
- 7kW AC: Single-phase wall box
- 11-22kW AC: Three-phase wall box
- 20-350kW DC: 400- or 800-volt class public fast charging station
EV Vehicle AC/DC Charging Input
Your electric vehicle’s charging speed depends on the AC/DC charging input it can accept from any charger. The charging rate of your electric car is determined by the maximum kilowatt (kW) capacity that it can handle.
Here are some key factors to consider when it comes to your vehicle’s AC/DC charging input:
- AC-to-DC onboard inverter: Your electric car is equipped with an onboard inverter that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) for charging purposes.
- DC charging limits: Each electric car model has its own DC charging limits, indicating the maximum charge rate it can accept from a charger under optimal conditions.
- Charging losses: There are slight energy losses during the charging process, meaning not all the electricity being outputted will go directly into your car’s battery.
- Maximum charging capability: The maximum kW capacity of your electric car determines the peak charging rate it can achieve.
EV Charging Example.
The Polestar 2 boasts a potential of up to 205kW for DC charging. However, when connected to a higher-cost 350kW DC ultra-rapid station, its intake is constrained to a maximum of 205kW under ideal circumstances.
In contrast, envision plugging in a Tesla Model Y RWD at a 50kW DC public fast charging station. Despite the model’s capacity of up to 170kW for DC charging, it will only reach a peak of 50kW under optimal conditions.
EV Battery Size
The larger the battery capacity, the longer it takes to recharge. When it comes to electric cars, the battery size plays a crucial role in determining the charging time. The battery size is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and it directly affects how much energy is needed to replenish it. A larger battery requires more energy, which means a longer charging time.
EV Battery Temperature
If the battery gets too hot or cold, it can affect the charging time. The temperature of the battery plays a crucial role in determining how long it takes to charge an electric car. Here are some key points to consider:
- Weather temperature: Extreme weather conditions and environmental factors, such as hot summers or cold winters, can impact the battery’s temperature. High temperatures can cause the battery to overheat, while freezing temperatures can make it difficult for the battery to reach its optimal operating temperature.
- Driving behavior: Hard accelerations and high speeds can generate heat in the drive unit and battery, affecting the battery’s temperature. It is important to drive smoothly and avoid aggressive driving to keep the battery at an ideal temperature.
- Battery Management System (BMS): The BMS regulates the power input based on the battery’s temperature. If the battery is too hot or cold, the BMS will throttle the charging power, resulting in a slower charging time.
- Charging station capabilities: Some charging stations have built-in temperature control features to ensure optimal charging conditions. Using a charging station with these capabilities can help maintain the battery’s temperature and reduce charging time.
Taking care of your battery’s temperature is essential for efficient charging and optimal performance of your electric car. Keeping your state of battery healthy is optimal.
EV Battery Percentage
Maintaining a healthy battery involves being mindful of the percentage at which it is charged. When it comes to electric cars, the battery percentage plays a crucial role in determining the charge time and overall battery health. Charging an electric car from a low battery percentage will typically result in a faster charge time compared to charging from a higher battery percentage. The charging rate tends to slow down after reaching 80 to 100 percent to prevent excessive degradation. To achieve maximum fast charging speeds, it is recommended to use a compatible public DC fast charging station that outputs the same or more than the EV model’s peak DC capability. Additionally, enabling the battery preconditioning function and driving a bit before arriving at the charging station can help optimize the charging process.
Here is a table summarizing the relationship between battery percentage and charge time:
Battery Percentage | Charge Time |
---|---|
Low (0-30%) | Faster |
Medium (30-80%) | Moderate |
High (80-100%) | Slower |
EV Charging From Empty
When starting with an empty battery, it’s important to consider the charging time and how it will affect your plans. The time it takes to charge an electric car to full charge or full battery depends on several factors, such as the size of the battery and the power of the charger.
If you plug the car into a regular home charger, it can take anywhere from 8 to 20 hours to fully charge. However, if you have access to a fast charger, the charging time can be significantly reduced. These chargers can provide anywhere from 50 to 150 kilowatts (kw) of electricity, allowing you to charge your car much faster.
Keep in mind that the charging time will also vary depending on the specific model of your electric car and its battery capacity.
Charging Time Examples From Popular Car Manufacturers
Charger | MG 4 Excite 51 (max 6.6kW AC/88kW DC) | BYD Atto 3 Standard Range (max 7.4kW AC/70kW DC) | Tesla Model Y RWD (max 11kW AC/170kW DC) | Kia EV6 (max 10.5kW AC/240kW DC) |
---|---|---|---|---|
1.8kW AC | ∼19 hours and 45 minutes | ∼19 hours and 29 minutes | ∼22 hours and 22 minutes | ∼28 hours and 46 minutes |
7kW AC | ∼5 hours and 23 minutes | ∼5 hours | ∼5 hours and 45 minutes | ∼7 hours and 24 minutes |
11kW AC | ∼5 hours and 23 minutes | ∼4 hours and 43 minutes | ∼3 hours 40 minutes | ∼4 hours and 53 minutes |
50kW DC | 40 minutes* | ∼42 minutes | ∼49 minutes | 73 minutes* |
350kW DC | ∼25 minutes | ∼30 minutes | ∼15 minutes | 18 minutes* |
Tips for Charging an Electric Car
To get the most out of charging, it’s helpful to know the recommended charging level for your battery. Here are some tips to help you maximize your battery car charging time:
- Use a rapid charger: Rapid chargers can charge your electric car much faster compared to regular chargers, allowing you to get back on the road in no time.
- Consider plug-in hybrid electric cars: Plug-in hybrid electric cars have smaller batteries compared to fully electric cars, which means they require less time to charge. This can be a convenient option if you need a quick charge.
- Take advantage of charging at home: Charging your electric car at home overnight is a convenient way to ensure you always have a fully charged battery when you start your day.
- Plan your charging stops strategically: If you’re taking a long trip, plan your charging stops strategically to make the most of your time. Look for charging stations along your route and choose ones that offer fast charging options.
Ultrarapid 350kW EV Chargers – Maximum Output
The fastest charging type on the market is commercial. The Ultrarapid 350kW charger is capable of delivering incredibly fast charging speeds for compatible vehicles. With its high power rating, it can charge your electric car in no time.
Here are some key features of this charger:
- Lightning-fast charging: This charger can provide a significant amount of power to your electric car, allowing you to charge it much faster than standard chargers.
- Convenient and efficient: With the Ultrarapid 350kW charger, you can spend less time waiting for your electric car to charge and more time on the road.
- Versatility: This charger is not only compatible with electric cars but can also charge other devices such as mobile phones, thanks to its high power output.
- Future-proof: As the demand for faster charging increases, this charger is designed to meet the needs of future electric car models.
With the Ultrarapid 350kW charger, charging your electric car has never been quicker or more efficient. Say goodbye to long charging times and enjoy the convenience of this powerful charger.
How Long Does An Electric Car Take To Charge – Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
Electric vehicles charging times can vary in time depending on several factors. The charging speed is influenced by factors such as the type of charger, the battery size, and the charging infrastructure.
On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to fully charge an electric car. It is important to consider the range per hour of charging and plan accordingly.
Utilizing home charging stations and destination charging can also help optimize the charging process.