Where Can I Charge My Electric Car?

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more commonplace, understanding where and how to charge them is essential for new and experienced EV owners alike.

Unlike petrol and diesel cars, which can refuel in minutes at a petrol station, charging an EV requires planning to ensure you have enough range for your journeys.

In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at the different charging options available, from home charging to public networks and emerging charger-sharing schemes.

Types of EV Chargers in the UK

Before discussing where to charge your electric car, it’s important to understand the different types of chargers available.

The speed at which an EV charges depends on the power output of the charger and the capabilities of the vehicle’s onboard charger.

Slow Chargers (3.6 to 7kW)

Slow chargers are the most common type used for home charging.

They usually operate at 3.6kW or 7kW, which makes them ideal for overnight charging.

Advantages

• Cost-effective: Charging at home using a slow charger is often the cheapest way to charge an EV, especially when taking advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs.
• Convenient: You can charge your car overnight and wake up to a full battery.
• Reduced strain on the grid: Slow charging puts less strain on the power grid compared to rapid charging.

Disadvantages

• Long charging times: Charging a typical EV from empty to full using a 3.6kW charger can take more than 12 hours.
• Not suitable for quick top-ups: If you need a rapid boost of range, a slow charger isn’t the best solution.

Fast Chargers (7 to 22kW)

Fast chargers are commonly found in workplaces, supermarkets, and public car parks.

They provide a quicker charge compared to slow chargers.

Advantages

• Faster than home charging: A 7kW charger can fully charge an EV in around 8 hours, while a 22kW charger can do it in as little as 3 hours.
• Ideal for daytime charging: Suitable for locations where people park for extended periods, such as shopping centres.

Disadvantages

• Requires a compatible vehicle: Not all EVs can take full advantage of a 22kW charger.
• Limited availability: 22kW chargers are less common than slower alternatives.

Rapid Chargers (50 to 100kW)

Rapid chargers are typically found at motorway service stations and allow for quick charging sessions.

Advantages

• Quick charging: Many EVs can charge to 80% in around 30-45 minutes.
• Convenient for long journeys: Ideal for topping up during a long trip.

Disadvantages

• Expensive: Public rapid chargers are more costly than home charging.
• Battery degradation: Frequent use of rapid charging can degrade battery health over time.

Ultra-Rapid Chargers (100kW and above)

Ultra-rapid chargers are the fastest available, delivering a high power output that enables rapid top-ups.

Advantages

• Fastest charging option: Some EVs can gain 100 miles of range in under 10 minutes.
• Best for long trips: Allows drivers to continue their journey with minimal downtime.

Disadvantages

• Expensive: These chargers typically have the highest charging costs.
• Not widely available: Still being rolled out across the UK.

Charging at Home

Many EV owners prefer to charge at home because it is convenient and cost-effective.

Advantages

• Convenience: Charging at home means you don’t need to rely on public chargers.
• Lower costs: Home electricity rates are often cheaper than public charging fees.

Disadvantages

• Installation costs: A dedicated home charger requires an upfront investment.
• Not possible for everyone: Those without a driveway or garage may struggle to install a home charger.

Public Car Parks

Many public car parks now offer EV charging stations, allowing drivers to charge while they shop or work.

Advantages

• Multi-purpose: Charge while running errands.
• Increasing availability: More car parks are adding EV chargers.

Disadvantages

• Parking fees may apply: Some locations require paid parking even when charging.
• Limited spots: EV chargers in car parks can fill up quickly.

Public Charging Networks

Several companies operate public charging networks across the UK, offering chargers in a variety of locations.

Advantages

• Coverage: Networks provide charging options in urban and rural areas.
• App integration: Many networks offer mobile apps for locating and accessing chargers.

Disadvantages

• Different payment methods: Some require membership, others allow pay-as-you-go.
• Cost variations: Prices differ depending on the provider.

On-Street Chargers

Local councils are installing on-street chargers to help those without home charging access.

Advantages

• Accessibility: Useful for those without driveways or garages.
• Convenient locations: Often found near residential areas.

Disadvantages

• Slow charging speeds: Most are slow or fast chargers, not rapid ones.
• Competition for spots: Limited availability can make finding a charger difficult.

Petrol Stations

Many petrol stations are now installing EV charging stations alongside traditional fuel pumps.

Advantages

• Familiar locations: Easy to integrate charging into daily routines.
• Rapid charging options: Many petrol stations offer fast and rapid chargers.

Disadvantages

• Expensive: Typically more expensive than charging at home.
• Availability: Not all petrol stations have EV chargers yet.

Supermarkets and Stores

Many large supermarkets offer EV charging facilities for customers.

Advantages

• Free charging: Some supermarkets offer free charging while you shop.
• Convenient: Charge while you shop.

Disadvantages

• Time limits: Charging may be restricted to a certain duration.
• Limited availability: Not all supermarkets have chargers.

Charger Sharing Schemes

Charger sharing schemes, such as Joosup, allow EV owners to share their home chargers with other drivers. This innovative approach helps improve charging accessibility.

Advantages

• Expands charging access: More charging locations available.
• Cost-effective: Can be cheaper than public networks.

Disadvantages

• Availability varies: Not all areas have widespread charger-sharing options.
• Booking required: Some schemes require pre-booking.

Conclusion

Understanding where you can charge your electric car is essential for making EV ownership as convenient as possible.

Whether you choose home charging, public networks, or innovative charger-sharing schemes like Joosup, the key is to plan ahead and make use of the available infrastructure.

As the UK’s EV network continues to expand, charging will become even more accessible and convenient for all drivers.