How Long Does it Take to Charge an Electric Car

Electric vehicles are becoming a more popular transportation. With the growing number of charging stations available for the public, you can expect to see more EVs on the road soon. But, how long does it take to charge an electric car, and is it economical?

If you are planning to buy an EV, you might want to take into consideration the cost and amount of time charging your EV. Read on to learn more about the fastest charging option available for most consumers and alternatives if you want to lower the cost.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Charge an Electric Car?

Charging time can vary greatly depending on the type of charger. Three main types of chargers dominate the market: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers. Each type offers distinct charging speeds, which in turn affects how long you’ll need to leave your electric vehicle plugged in.

Here's a quick breakdown of the three main charging options:

Level 1 Chargers: These use standard household outlets (120V) and are the slowest option. Charging a fully electric vehicle (BEV) can take 40 to 50 hours to reach 80%, while a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can be charged in 5 to 6 hours. 

Level 2 Chargers: Offering faster charging with 240V, these chargers are commonly found at homes and public stations. They can charge a BEV in about 4 to 10 hours and a PHEV in just 1 to 2 hours. 

Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC): If you’re in a hurry, DC fast chargers are your best bet. They can charge a BEV up to 80% in just 20 minutes to 1 hour. However, most PHEVs don’t support this charging method.

The following table provides a clear comparison of the different types of chargers and the time required to charge an electric vehicle. 

The question of how long does it take to charge an electric car hinges heavily on the type of charger used. Slow chargers are often more accessible, but rapid chargers, often available at public charging stations, offer the convenience of minimal waiting time.

What Affects Charging Time for Electric Vehicles?

Several factors directly influence the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle. These factors can lead to variations in charging experiences depending on the location, vehicle, and charger.

• Battery Size: Larger battery capacities take longer to charge. An electric car with a 100 kWh battery will require more time to reach full capacity than one with a 40 kWh battery.
• State of Charge (SoC): Charging time varies based on the current battery charge level. Charging from 20% to 80% tends to be quicker than from 0% to full capacity.
• Charger Power Output: The type of charger—whether it's slow, fast, or rapid—determines how long it takes. A rapid charger will provide much faster charging compared to a slow home charger.
• Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures, especially cold, can affect charging speed, slowing the process down. Battery efficiency also diminishes in colder climates.
• Vehicle Type: Some electric cars are designed with charging efficiency in mind and can handle faster charging without compromising the battery’s longevity.

Each of these factors plays a pivotal role in determining how long it takes to charge an electric car,but the LYNK 08 sets itself apart. With its 39.8kWh flat-panel battery pack, it can charge from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes, ensuring quick, efficient charging. Plus, thanks to its 4.1kW PTC heating technology, the LYNK 08 maintains charging efficiency even in extreme cold, as low as -20°C.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car?

The cost of charging an electric vehicle (EV) depends on several factors, such as the charging method and the vehicle's efficiency. Home charging is typically the most cost-effective option. For example, charging a relatively efficient EV like the Chevrolet Bolt for 100 miles at home costs around $2.81. A more popular model like the Tesla Model Y would cost about $3.82 for the same 100 miles. These costs are much lower compared to gasoline, where a similar gas-powered vehicle would cost $10 to $13.70 for 100 miles. 

On the other hand, public fast charging is more expensive. Charging the Bolt for 100 miles using a fast charger could cost around $11.82, while for the Tesla Model Y, fast charging can range from $9.95 to $19 depending on the charger and time of day. Larger vehicles, such as the GMC Hummer EV, can cost as much as $37.11 for 100 miles when using a fast charger. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how long does it take to charge an electric car, it can give you a better idea of how often you should charge your EV. Moreover, it also helps you with figuring out your weekly EV charging schedule based on your daily driving route and other factors.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to charge an electric car?

The quickest way to charge an electric vehicle is by using a DC rapid charger. These chargers offer high power outputs, typically 50 kW or more, and can replenish most electric vehicles to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. Rapid chargers are most commonly found at public charging stations and along highways, making them ideal for long trips where quick top-ups are necessary.

How long does it take to charge an electric car at a station?

The time it takes to charge an electric car at a station depends on the type of charger used. A Level 3 DC fast charger can charge most EVs from 20% to 80% in about 30 to 60 minutes. In contrast, slower Level 2 chargers may take several hours to fully charge a vehicle, often around 4 to 8 hours. Charging time also varies based on the car's battery size, current charge level, and weather conditions.

Are public charging stations faster than home chargers?

Yes, public charging stations are typically faster than home chargers because they offer fast and rapid charging options that are often unavailable at home. Fast chargers deliver power outputs of up to 22 kW, while rapid chargers exceed 50 kW. In comparison, home chargers typically operate at 3 to 7 kW, making public charging a faster alternative when time is a constraint.

Do electric cars use oil?

Electric vehicles do not use traditional engine oil like gasoline-powered vehicles. Since they lack internal combustion engines, they don't require oil for lubrication or cooling. However, electric cars still have fluids for other systems, such as brake fluids and coolant for the battery. These fluids typically need maintenance but not as frequently as engine oil in conventional vehicles.