There are many benefits to converting to an electric vehicle (EVs), including reducing the number of harmful fumes that are emitted into the atmosphere. But, it is important for drivers to be aware of certain factors that could affect an EV’s charging time, due to uncontrollable elements. They won’t change your driving, however, it is always wise to have this knowledge first.
To begin, you should compare the car’s maximum charging speed to the charging point’s maximum charging speed. After all, you can have a car that can charge extremely quickly, but if the charging station can’t handle it, it’s useless.
It’s all about who has the weakest link. The trade-off between your car’s maximum charging speed and the maximum charging speed a charging point can achieve has a significant impact on charging time. If your electric car’s inverter can only handle one phase, you can charge at a three-phase 22 kW charger without issue, but your EV will only use one phase at that time.
Check out this helpful guide for other factors that can affect EV charging time.
Environment
The temperature is a major consideration that needs to be taken before deciding to charge your EV. Especially with a level 1 charger that can take up to 8 hours. Cold weather in the winter months can be damaging to the charging process; when below 20 degrees, there is less current produced leading to the battery potentially being drained. In these situations, we recommend ensuring your electric car has at least a 20% charge at all times.
Colder temperatures can also cause EV batteries to take longer to charge. This is more noticeable when using a DC fast charger, where times are usually up to 30 minutes. Make sure you are aware of these dangers and take precautions to help.
Whilst you are charging with a portable EV charger, precondition your car. You can ensure that the inner temperature is warm enough that you will not have to waste any excess charge on the heater whilst driving. This will help save your battery that is already at risk of losing charge easier than usual.
Battery Capacity
The higher the battery charge, the slower the speed. During the charging procedure, this happens gradually or in increments. The maximum charging speed of a vehicle is maintained for a set period of time, which varies depending on the analysis performed by the BMS before the charge begins. To safeguard the battery, the speed is swiftly reduced. The charging power requested by the car drops rapidly after the battery has been charged to 80%, making it less desirable to prolong the charging session.
We recommend not exceeding 80%. Make sure you are aware of the EV charging time, using apps or programming the required time; so that the charging stops before this damage.
Our Services
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 EV charging time and the benefits of portable EV chargers.