Electric vehicles (EVs) are popular because of their eco-friendliness and the fact that they allow you to save the money you would usually spend on gasoline. One of the most common questions that potential EV buyers ask involves how long it will take to charge their vehicle. The type of car you buy isn’t the only part of the equation, as the type of charger you use also impacts charging time.
How Design Impacts Charging Time
Older electric vehicles will take longer to charge than newer ones. Every electric vehicle has a maximum charging rate, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). EVs manufactured in the mid-2010s feature less efficient batteries when compared to models made in the early 2020s.
As battery technology has advanced, electric vehicles have been able to charge faster and become more efficient. So, if you drive an older car, then it’s safe to assume that your vehicle will take longer to reach a full battery than a newer model.
Battery Size and Charge
The battery size and state at the time of charging will also impact how long it takes to charge an EV. Smaller batteries have less capacity, so they can reach full charge faster, as long as you’re using the right charger.
If your car is completely depleted when you plug it in, then it will take longer to recharge than if you were only 50% through your current charge. In fact, most car experts advise charging from a partially charged state to cut back on the amount of time it takes to get your range back up to its full capacity.
Charger
There are three main types of chargers for electric vehicles today. They range from 120V Level 1 chargers to the fastest Level 3 (DCFC), which packs 480 volts or more. Level 2 chargers are in the mid-range, offering 210 volts and an average charging time of four to 10 hours.
Meanwhile, a Level 1 charger will take much longer to power up your EV than a Level 3, which can recharge 100 to 200 miles in an hour or even just 30 minutes. It’s important to note that not all EVs are compatible with Level 3 chargers.
Hit the Road With a Fully Charged Battery
If you want the most reliable charge for your electric vehicle, nothing beats having your own charger at home. Contact McHales in Levittown, PA, to get the right EV charger installation for your car, tailored to your property.