There are several types of EV charging, each with varying charging speeds. A popular method is to install a charge point at home, which uses an alternating current (AC) and has a maximum output of 7kW. The average charging time is around eight hours, and many users prefer to charge their electric vehicle(s) overnight to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs for cheaper charging. Home EV chargers can also be connected to existing or new solar panels, offering you the chance to charge for free by utilising excess solar energy.  

AC chargers can go up to 22kW, and are suitable for both residential and workplace settings, offering faster charging speeds. Direct current (DC) chargers are larger and more powerful than AC chargers, with charging capabilities of up to 350kW. On average, DC chargers can charge an EV to 80% capacity in under an hour and are often found at motorway service stations, making them ideal for long journeys, as well as being handy for fleets and taxi companies who need a quick recharge.  

When it comes to charging an electric vehicle, the most economical option is usually to charge at home, especially if you have an off-peak electricity tariff. On-road charging prices are generally higher. 

To calculate the cost of charging your EV, you should consider the cost in pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh), rather than pence per litre. A kWh is a standard unit of measurement of energy that your supplier uses to bill you.  

The cost of charging electric vehicles depends on several factors, including the vehicle’s battery capacity, charging speed, and the electricity tariff you use. To estimate the cost of charging at home, you can multiply the battery size of your EV by the electricity price per kWh from your supplier.

Calculating EV charging speeds depends on several factors, including the onboard charger size, charging rate, state of charge, battery health, and even temperature. As a general rule, you can estimate the time it will take to charge your EV by dividing the battery size (kWh) by the charger power (kW). 

For example, charging a Tesla Model Y at home with a 7kW charger would take approximately 10.5 hours to charge fully, making overnight charging a convenient solution for a guaranteed full battery. If using a 22kW charger at work, the Tesla Model Y would take around 3.5 hours to charge. On the road, if using a 100kW charger at a motorway service station, the Tesla Model Y would take approximately 45 minutes to charge.  

It’s worth noting that your EV will not charge at the maximum rate for the entire charge session, particularly for DC chargers with a higher kilowattage. Charging starts relatively slowly before quickly increasing to 80%, and then reduces again as the battery approaches full charge. This maximises charging efficiency and helps preserve battery life.