The complete guide to charging: everything you need to know about charging your electric car
For all EV owners, charging is a key consideration.
Where can I charge my car?
How much does a charging session cost on average?
How do I pay at a public charging point?
How long does it take to charge my car?
In this guide, we’ll cover charging solutions, connector types, and how charging times may differ depending on power ratings. Soon, charging your electric vehicle will be crystal clear!
You’ll also find answers, practical information, and tips to optimise your charging sessions, understand the associated costs, and choose the equipment best suited to your needs.
What you can expect in this guide:
Different solutions for charging your EV
Explanations of charging costs
Tips for optimising your charging sessions
Everything (or almost everything) you need to know about electric vehicle charging!
The different charging solutions for an electric car
There are different charging options suited to various needs. You can charge your vehicle at home, at public charging points located in car parks and shopping centres, for example, or even use rapid charging stations, which are mainly found at motorway service areas. Understanding these differences is essential to optimise the charging of your electric car, whether at home or on the go.
Charging at home
Charging at home is the most convenient solution for electric vehicle owners. Whether using a standard or heavy-duty power socket, or a dedicated charging point, there are several options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Also read:
Find detailed information on all the solutions for EV charging at home.
Were you aware?
71%
Charging at home is the most common option, with 71% of EV owners choosing to do so? (Source: EVA England)
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Charging in residential blocks
Although it may seem challenging, installing an EV charger in a residential block is becoming increasingly straightforward across the UK. Thanks to new funding schemes, technical solutions, and supportive government policies, more flat-dwellers are now able to enjoy the convenience of charging at home.
Whether through private installations, shared charging points, or pre-equipped parking areas, these solutions are becoming more widely available, making home charging more accessible in many buildings.
Workplace charging
Charging points are becoming more widespread, from residential areas and shared buildings to major urban roads. As a result, it's increasingly likely that you’ll be able to charge your vehicle at your workplace. If your company offers charging points, make sure to check their EV charging policy to understand the terms and conditions for using them.
Public charging
Public charging points can be found in many locations, including public car parks, shopping centres, service stations, and rest areas, providing convenient charging during trips. They are typically more powerful than home chargers, with standard charging points (AC) offering power ratings ranging from 11kW to 22kW. These chargers allow for a charging time of 2 to 6 hours on average, depending on the battery type and the power rating of the charger.
To learn more about how to charge an electric vehicle at a public charging point, check out our dedicated article.
Additionally, there are also rapid and ultra-rapid chargers (up to 350kW), mostly located on motorways. Rapid charging uses direct current (DC) chargers, allowing a battery to be charged to about 80% of its capacity in 20 to 30 minutes (this can vary depending on thebattery capacity and the power delivered by the charger). The downside? The cost of charging is generally higher than that of AC chargers. Among the main rapid charging networks, we can mention Ionity, Fastned, and Tesla with its Superchargers!
In any case, rapid charging is the ideal solution for long journeys!
When you're on the go, you can easily find nearby charging points with the Chargemap app. Charge with complete peace of mind during your electric car journeys!
Which charging point should you choose for your electric car?
To choose the right charging point, it's important to consider the charger’s power rating, the compatibility of the connectors with your vehicle, and your everyday needs – including how far you typically drive and how much time you have for charging.
Power rating
Charging points range from 3.7kW to over 350kW. For daily use, a 7.4kW home charger is usually sufficient. For long-distance journeys, however, rapid chargers are recommended
Maximum charging power
The maximum charging power of an electric vehicle varies from one model to another. Most EVs are equipped with onboard chargers rated at 7.4kW (single-phase), with optional three-phase chargers ranging from 11kW to 22 kW depending on the manufacturer. If your car is connected to a charger with a higher power rating than it can handle, the charging speed will be automatically limited to the vehicle’s maximum charging power
Connector compatibility
Make sure the charging point is compatible with your vehicle’s connector. In Europe, Type 2 connectors (for AC charging) and CCS connectors (for DC charging) are the standard
Daily driving needs
If you mainly drive in town and take short trips, a home charger or a standard public charging point will suit your needs
Would you like to explore more about how to charge your EV?
How to charge your electric car
Connector types and power standards for EV charging
When charging an electric vehicle, choosing the right connector and ensuring compatibility with different charging stations is essential. There are several connector types and power standards, each with its own features depending on the type of charger and vehicle.
The most common connectors
Type 2 (Mennekes)
This is the most widely used connector in Europe. It is the standard for alternating current (AC) charging and is compatible with most public and home charging points
Combo CCS (Combined Charging System)
This connector is used for rapid charging with direct current (DC). It combines the Type 2 plug with two additional DC pins for faster charging
CHAdeMO
Another standard for DC rapid charging, mainly used by Japanese car manufacturers such as Nissan and Mitsubishi. It offers fast charging but is gradually being phased out in favour of the CCS standard in Europe
Power standards
Charging points are also distinguished by the power and voltage they provide, which directly affects the charging time.
Power in kW
The power of charging points is measured in kilowatts (kW) and determines the speed at which electricity is transferred to the battery. A standard home charging point typically offers power between 3.7kW and 7.4kW, while public AC chargers can go up to 22kW. Rapid DC public chargers can provide power between 50kW and 350kW, enabling much faster charging
Alternating Current (AC) vs Direct Current (DC)
Most home charging is carried out using alternating current (AC), which offers lower power and longer charging times. In contrast, rapid chargers use direct current (DC) to enable rapid or ultra-rapid charging
The combination of these factors allows you to choose the best charging option depending on your needs, whether it's rapid charging during a long journey or slower, more economical charging at home.
How EV charging works
Plugging your electric vehicle into a socket or charging point to charge is simple. The key is making sure you use the right plug and cable. You’ll find more engaging information below on how energy flows from the charging point to the vehicle's battery.
Understanding this process can also help you optimise charging and extend the lifespan of your EV battery!
The ABCs of the charging process
Charging an electric vehicle involves transferring electrical energy from an external power source (such as a home socket or charging point) to the vehicle's battery.
This transfer is made via a charging cable that connects the vehicle to the source. Once plugged in, the car must convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC) to store it in the battery. For DC charging, a powerful converter is located directly within the charging point. The charging point supplies direct current, which is stored in the battery, explaining the faster charging time compared to AC charging.
The embedded management systems in the vehicle regulate the energy flow to prevent overcharging and protect the battery from extreme temperatures. The time needed for charging depends on the power rating of the charging point and the capacity of the battery. Modern vehicles are also equipped with software that allows users to monitor the charging status through mobile apps, making remote management easier. Convenient, right?
The battery: the heart of EV charging
Most electric vehicles on the market are equipped with lithium-ion batteries, due to their high energy density and their ability to be recharged numerous times. The battery capacity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), determines the vehicle's range and the charging time required.
For example, Charging a Peugeot e-208 from 20% to 80% using a 7.4kW home charger takes approximately 4 hours and 3 minutes (source: smarthomecharge.co.uk).
The batteries consist of several cells that store energy chemically, and their performance can be influenced by various factors such as temperature, the type of charge (standard or rapid), and the vehicle’s usage. It is important to note that repeatedly charging to 100% can reduce the battery’s lifespan.
Tip
80%
Many manufacturers recommend charging up to 80% during frequent charges to preserve long-term performance.
Also read
For comprehensive information on EV battery performance, warranties, and maintenance, consult the UK Government's guide on electric vehicles.
The cost of charging an electric vehicle
One of the most frequently raised issues regarding electric vehicles is the cost of charging. The price varies based on several factors: the type and power of the charging point, the location, the time of charging, and the electricity tariff. This section will help you understand the key factors that influence the cost of charging an electric vehicle.
Factors affecting the cost of charging
The cost of charging an electric vehicle depends on:
The price of electricity per kWh
The average cost of electricity, which differs from one country to another, can vary depending on peak and off-peak hours, as well as the contract with the energy supplier. Some public charging stations also apply different rates depending on the time of day or the day of the week.
The power of the charging point
Rapid and ultra-rapid charging points are generally more expensive than standard ones. Since they provide higher power for faster charging, the cost per kWh can be higher.
The location of the charging point
Whether you're charging at home, at a standard or rapid charging point, the cost of charging will vary.
Charge at the best price by filtering stations that offer per kWh pricing and set your maximum price on the Chargemap app.
EV charging payment methods
In contrast to conventional refuelling, EV charging offers a variety of payment methods. There are four main options:
Multi-network charging card
This is the most convenient option for accessing a wide network of charging points across Europe
Network-specific card
The card is specific to a particular network
Direct payment by bank card at the charging point
Most charging stations do not accept it
Subscription plans
Ideal for regular users looking to save money on charging costs
State of charging infrastructure in Europe
The development of charging infrastructure is essential to facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles. Across Europe, the network of charging points has significantly evolved in recent years, supported by both governmental and private initiatives.
Evolution of the Charging Network
This expansion is part of a broader European framework, where the European Union has set ambitious goals to support electric mobility and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The EU aims to deploy more than 3 million charging points by 2030. This includes both standard (AC) charging points for long-distance recharging in residential areas and rapid (DC) chargers for trips along major roadways.
Several financial assistance programmes, such as grants for the installation of charging points in workplaces and homes, as well as public infrastructure co-financing initiatives, have accelerated this development.
In France
400 000
charging points open to the public by 2030
3 millions
charging points by 2030
3 millions
charging points by 2030
In France
400 000
charging points open to the public by 2030
Mapping available charging points
When planning a journey in your electric vehicle, knowing the charging station locations is crucial for a smooth trip. This is where the Chargemap app becomes invaluable.
Easily locate charging points around you using the charging station map. Find charging stations that suit your needs by filtering by plug type, charging speed, location type, price, and so on.
The mobile app serves as your best companion for stress-free charging during your electric vehicle journeys. It enables you to:
Find charging stations
near your current position, anywhere in Europe
Plan your routes
considering charging points along your itinerary and calculating optimal stops for charging
Access detailed information about stations
including connector types, real-time availability, power ratings, and network-specific tariffs
Apply custom filters
to select stations that meet your specific needs, like rapid chargers or special offers from partner networks
Estimate the cost of a charging session
at stations compatible with the Chargemap Pass
Download the Chargemap app for free and hit the road with complete peace of mind!
Tips to save money on EV charging
To get the most out of your electric vehicle –in terms of cost, range and battery health– it’s important to adopt smart charging habits. Whether you're looking to cut down on expenses or preserve your battery in the long run, here are some practical tips for more efficient charging.
Home charging strategies
Home charging is one of the most cost-effective and convenient options for EV owners. Here’s how to optimise it:
Charge during off-peak hours
Many energy providers offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak times, typically at night. Scheduling your EV to charge during these periods can significantly reduce your electricity bill
Install a dedicated home charging point
a dedicated charging station at home offers faster and safer charging – typically up to 7.4kW compared to just 2.3kW for a standard socket. While there’s an upfront installation cost, it improves convenience and reduces charging time in the long run
Limit charging to 80% for regular use
to extend your battery’s lifespan, avoid charging to 100% on a daily basis. Keeping your charge level around 80% for everyday journeys can help reduce battery wear over time – only charge to 100% when you really need the full range for longer trips
Using public charging stations
When using public charging points for your electric vehicle, following a few best practices can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make your charging sessions more efficient:
Plan your stops
Before heading out on a long journey, use the Chargemap app to locate available charging stations along your route. This can help you avoid last-minute searches or arriving at an occupied charging point
Avoid peak hours
Charging points in busy areas such as shopping centres or motorway service stations can get crowded during peak times. Try to charge early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce waiting time
Check costs and conditions
Public charging rates can vary widely depending on the network and region. Always check the price per kWh and any connection or parking fees before starting your charging session
Easily check Chargemap rates for charging stations and simulate charging costs by tapping “See rates” on the station’s detail screen in the app
Estimate the final cost of a charging session with a clear breakdown between the network’s share and Chargemap’s commission
Plan ahead for your upcoming charging expenses and travel with complete peace of mind!
Optimising your electric car’s range between charges
Extending your EV’s range between charging sessions helps reduce the frequency of charging and contributes to a longer battery lifespan. Here are a few practical tips:
Adapt your driving style:
Smooth driving, with gentle acceleration and braking, can significantly boost your EV’s efficiency. Using “eco mode” –available on many models– can also help you conserve energy.
Make use of regenerative braking:
Most electric vehicles are equipped with regenerative braking systems that convert kinetic energy into electricity to partially recharge the battery. Using this feature wisely –especially when going downhill– can help extend your range.
Cut down on secondary energy use:
Systems like air conditioning, heating, and other electrical accessories can consume a surprising amount of energy. When possible, limit their use to conserve battery power and maximise the time between charging sessions.
Keep your tyres properly inflated:
Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which reduces your vehicle’s range. Regularly check your tyre pressure and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations to optimise energy efficiency.
The most frequently asked questions about electric vehicle charging
What is the cost of charging an electric vehicle?
The cost of charging varies depending on several factors, including:
- The electricity tariff
- The types of charging stations
- The model, energy consumption and capacity of the vehicle
- And more
↪️ Learn more about the factors influencing the cost of charging an electric vehicle.
How much does it cost to charge an EV on the motorway?
On the motorway, the cost of charging an electric vehicle also depends on several factors: the charging point used, its power rating, the charging network, and more. Charging on motorways is often more expensive due to higher infrastructure costs.
Rapid charging stations on motorways require significant investment, both for installation and ongoing maintenance. In addition, their strategic placement along high-traffic routes leads to higher rental or operational fees. These stations also need to deliver higher charging speeds, which increases energy costs for providers. All of this is reflected in the price the user pays.
💬 Tip : Always check the network’s pricing before starting a charging session.
↪️ Everything you need to know about charging an EV on the motorway.
Where can I find free charging points?
Some public charging points, which are often located in shopping centres or supermarket car parks, offer free charging to attract customers.
Finding them couldn’t be easier: simply activate the “Free charging stations” filter in the Chargemap app!
↪️ Learn more about how to charge your electric vehicle for free.
Can I charge my electric car abroad?
Yes, charging an electric car abroad is entirely possible. Most public charging stations across Europe are compatible with European EVs. With the Chargemap Pass –a multi-network EV charging card– you can charge at over 1,600 compatible networks throughout Europe!
How can I find a charging point while travelling?
The best way to locate a nearby charging station is by using the Chargemap app. It helps you find available charging points, check their real-time availability, and plan your route accordingly.
Are you planning a long journey in your electric car? Check out our tips for a smooth and stress-free trip!
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Charging time depends on the battery capacity and the power rating of the charging point. Using a home charger (7.4kW), a full charge typically takes between 6 and 12 hours. On a rapid charger (50kW or more), charging to 80% can take around 30 to 45 minutes.
What are the main plug types for charging an electric car?
There are two main standards:
− Type 2: the European standard for AC (alternating current) charging, compatible with most public charging stations
− CCS Combo: used for DC (direct current) rapid charging at rapid and ultra-rapid charge points
↪️ Learn more about plug types for EV charging.
Which power rating should you choose for your electric car?
The ideal power rating depends on your needs and your vehicle’s capabilities. At home, a 7.4kW charging point is usually sufficient to fully charge your car overnight. For longer journeys, rapid chargers (50kW) or ultra-rapid chargers (up to 350kW) are ideal for quick top-ups while on the go.
Should you charge your electric car every day?
You don’t need to charge your electric car on a daily basis, unless you drive long distances regularly. It's generally recommended to charge when the battery level drops below 20%, and to avoid charging to 100% too frequently to help preserve battery health.
Can you charge an electric car in the rain?
Yes, you can safely charge an electric car in the rain. Both EVs and charging stations are designed to withstand all weather conditions. The connectors and charging points are waterproof and meet strict safety standards, ensuring a totally safe charging process even in wet weather.