As electric vehicles start to take over fossil-fuelled cars in regard to new sales, it is important that new or potential drivers are aware of certain key points. Many will be concerned about the length of charging times and how many charge points or charging stations are available. Portable EV chargers can ease certain worries, however, how often should you use these? How often should you charge your electric car?
The Different Types of Charging
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) are the typical cars that you would think of; fully rechargeable and with no gas engine. These are completely carbon-free and emit no harmful emissions into the atmosphere. In regard to charging, these vehicles can only be recharged at external power sources, such as a charging station or portable EV chargers. For these, there are different levels of charging that can be applied.
Level 1 is the charger that you would typically find at home charge points. Using a regular 120v outlet, charging a vehicle with these accumulates around 8 hours and is equal to approximately 80 miles. Drivers can find Level 2 chargers at specialised charging stations; running off of 240v. At charging stations, you can find these as they charge at a faster rate, with 4 hours equaling 80 miles.
DC Fast Charge or Level 3 are located in specific places, such as frequently used locations or service stations. This is because, as the name would suggest, it is the fastest charging available, only taking 30 minutes for 90 miles. Only BEVs are able to use these chargers.
Full Charge or Top-Up Charging
At Elite, we recommend never fully charging your electric vehicle; always remaining between 20% and 80%. This will fully optimise your battery and help prevent long-term damage. You might think that your car will need 100%, however, this is not true. That is why when a company gives a charging time, it is usually between 0 and 80% rather than a full charge.
Drivers may wonder if they can charge their vehicle overnight, saving them time for the day ahead. And, though this is correct, it is important to remember that when the charge begins to reach full capacity, the battery will then automatically drain itself slightly. This can waste energy, so make sure you are aware of how much your car requires, then turn off the charger before this.
How Can Portable EV Chargers Help?
As mentioned, there are several methods of charging that is available. Charging stations are beginning to overtake petrol and diesel stations, as the country prepares for the 2030 ban. However, if there are only level 2 chargers available, this could amount to 4 hour waiting times. This can put a dampening on plans, or affect your daily schedule. For this, alternatives should be considered.
Portables EV chargers allow drivers to carry their own charger; to use whenever and wherever they would like. Simply, find a suitable location and charge for the required amount of time. Ideal for any journey which requires travelling through remote locations, that potentially do not have charging stations widely available.
Elite and Portable EV Chargers
Elite EV Charge provides temporary and permanent EV charging solutions for vehicles all over the UK. We understand that the reason some drivers are reluctant to convert is because of misconceptions about charging. That’s why we’re here to help; educating those and answering highly asked questions such as: “how often should you charge your electric car?”
To receive a quote on our EV charging solutions, or to speak to one of our specialists, fill in our online form. Alternatively, follow us on Instagram. Our social media team posts daily updates on the best-selling EVs and the benefits of portable EV chargers.