Guidance that helps put EV Drivers into the driving seat

Our guides cover:

How long does it take to charge my EV?
What type of charging points are available?
Does the weather affect my EV range?
Tips & Tricks when charging

Should you have any additional questions which are not answered in our help guides, please contact us directly.

How long does it take to charge my EV?

The time it takes to charge an EV can vary significantly based on several factors, such as the type of charge point used, the size of the EV’s battery, the battery’s initial state of charge, the tapering effect, and weather conditions.

1. Types of EV Charge points

In the UK, the available public EV charging network is categorized into slow, fast, and rapid/ultra-rapid charge points, differentiated by their charging speeds.

Slow Charge Points:

These single-phase AC charge points offer a power output ranging from 2.3kW to 7kW.

A full charging session typically takes between 12-14 hours for most all-electric vehicles with an average range of 200 miles. Slow charge points are typically used when overnight charging at residential or on-street lamppost locations.

Fast Charge Points:

Fast charge points also use an AC supply but provide higher power outputs, ranging from 7.4kW to 22kW. The majority of EVs can be fully charged in 6 to 10 hours using 7.4kW points, and in 3 to 4 hours with 22kW points. This category of charge point is often found in public places like supermarkets, workplaces, and urban centres.

Rapid and Ultra-Rapid Charge Points:

These charge points use direct current (DC) electricity, and as a result are the fastest charging options available. They can charge your EV at a much faster rate than either of the other types – provided your vehicle is compatible.

Rapid points provide power outage ranging from 43kW to 50kW and can achieve up to 80% battery capacity in 30 minutes to an hour. Ultra-rapid points range from 100kW to 350kW and can charge most EVs to 80% in 15 to 30 minutes. Also, it’s worth noting that rapid and ultra-rapid charge points usually dynamically adjust their power output to protect your EV’s battery and manage charging efficiency. This means that they do not consistently charge at their maximum power rating throughout charging sessions.

Due to the cost and energy requirements of this type of charge point, they are not currently viable for most residential locations and are mostly used for quick top-ups during long-distance travel and are usually found at motorway service stations and in major urban areas.

Notably, not all EVs are equipped to charge using rapid/ultra-rapid charge points. Compatibility varies by vehicle, largely depending on the EV’s supported connector types (e.g., CHAdeMO, CCS) and the maximum charging speed allowed by your vehicle’s onboard charging system.

To confirm if your vehicle can charge using rapid and ultra-rapid charge points, always verify your EV’s compatibility through your vehicle’s user manual or manufacturer’s website. Also, to find out more about connector types and how to identify them, please check out our explanation under ‘What type of charging points are available?’.

Please refer to our answer to “What type of charging points are available?” to see the full information on each of these types and their pros and cons.

2. The Size of The EV’s Battery

Another factor that impacts on the duration of a charge is the size of your EV’s battery, which is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). Charging an EV to full is very similar to refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle in that the time it takes to fully refuel equally depends on the vehicle’s capacity to store energy, which for an EV is its battery.

This means that whilst a larger battery means your EV can support longer journeys as it can store more energy, this comes at the cost of requiring more time and energy to fully charge. Equally, whilst a smaller battery has a lower capacity and a lower range, it usually takes less time and energy to fully charge.

3. Battery’s Initial State of Charge

Also affecting the duration of a charge session is the initial and final state of charge throughout charging. For an EV, if it already has some charge it will take less time than from empty. In this sense, the level of energy in an EV at the start of refuelling works as it would with a petrol or diesel vehicle, as naturally a petrol/diesel tank or EV battery that is half full fills up with energy faster than an empty one.

However, the “tapering affect” means that the impact of the level of energy stored in an EV on charge duration is much more complex than the equivalent in petrol and diesel vehicles.

4. The Tapering Affect

The Tapering Effect refers to a phenomenon observed during the charging of EV batteries in which charging speed significantly slows down after reaching approximately 80% of the battery’s capacity.

The slow-down in charging speed is designed to safeguard the health of the battery, preventing overheating and excessive stress that can erode batteries over time. It is achieved by the battery management system (BMS), which is an electronic system responsible for managing and monitoring the performance, health, and safety of the battery pack. After the battery is roughly 80% charged, the BMS reduces the amount of power delivered to the battery to allow for more gradual and controlled charging. This phenomenon is not unique to EV batteries and is the same for many devices that use a rechargeable battery – such as mobile phones.

This is why charging from 0 to 80% can occur relatively quickly but charging from 80% to 100% occurs at a much slower speed, disproportionately increasing the overall cost and duration of a charge session. Based on this, to counter longer charging times and reduced battery longevity, it is advisable to charge to 80% generally, but especially when you are short on time or are not traveling large distances.

5. Weather Conditions

Cold weather can reduce the efficiency of the battery, leading to a decrease in the vehicle’s range. This is because more energy is required to heat the vehicle’s interior and to maintain the battery’s optimal operating temperature. On the other hand, extreme heat can also affect your EV’s range due to the additional energy that is required to maintain the battery’s optimal operating temperature and cool the interior of the vehicle.

For further information on the impact of weather on EV charging, please refer to our answer to “Does the weather affect my EV range?”.

In conclusion, when planning ahead and determining how long you can expect your charge session to last, it is crucial to consider all of the following factors: type of charge point used, the size of the EV’s battery, and the battery’s initial state of charge, the tapering effect, and weather conditions.

What type of charging points are available?

In the UK, EV charging infrastructure is categorised into slow, fast, and rapid/ultra-rapid charge points, differentiated by their charging speeds.

Slow Charge Points:

These charge points use alternating current (AC) electricity and offer a power output from 2.3kW to 7kW and full charging typically takes between 12-14 hours for most EVs. Slow charge points are typically used for overnight charging at residential locations, suitable for daily usage where fast charging is not possible or a necessity.

Fast Charge Points:

Fast charge points also use AC electricity but provide higher power outputs, ranging from 7kW to 22kW. This means that you can charge your EV to full much faster, the majority of EVs can be fully charged in 4 to 6 hours using 7kW points, and in 2 to 3 hours with 22kW points. This category of charge point is often found in public places like supermarkets, workplaces, and urban centres. However, they are ideal for quicker charging at home and are increasingly found in residential locations as well.

Rapid and Ultra-Rapid Charge Points:

Rapid points provide power outage ranging from 43kW to 50kW and can achieve up to 80% battery capacity in 30 minutes to an hour. Ultra-rapid points range from 100kW to 350kW and can charge most EVs to 80% in 15 to 30 minutes. Also, it’s worth noting that rapid and ultra-rapid charge points usually dynamically adjust their power output to protect your EV’s battery and manage charging efficiency, so don’t expect them to consistently charge at their maximum power rating.

Compatibility with Rapid and Ultra-Rapid Charge Points:

Additionally, it’s worth noting that not all EVs are equipped to charge using rapid/ultra-rapid charge points. Compatibility varies by vehicle, largely depending on the EV’s supported connector types and maximum charging speed.

To confirm if your vehicle can charge using rapid and ultra-rapid charge points, always check your vehicle’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website.

EV Charge Point Compatibility Explained:

A key factor influencing an EV’s compatibility with rapid and ultra-rapid charge points is the vehicle’s onboard charging system, the maximum speed of charging it permits, and the specific connectors it supports, such as CHAdeMO or CCS, which are used to allow charging using the direct current (DC) needed for rapid charging, differing from the alternating current (AC) used by slow and fast charge points.

Onboard Charging Systems:

An onboard charging system is a device in your EV that takes the AC electricity from the power grid that comes through your charge point into your EV and converts it into DC electricity to charge the vehicle’s battery. To ensure safe charging and the health of your battery, the onboard charging system also determines the maximum rate at which your vehicle can charge and ensures that it charges up within a safe range. If a charge point provides more power than the onboard charging system determines is appropriate, your vehicle will simply charge at the highest it safely can. For example, if your vehicle can only use up to 7kW, if it is connected to a 22kW charge point, it will only charge at a max rate of 7kW. This is why some EVs can charge faster than others using the same charge point.

Connectors:

Connectors are the physical connection between the EV and the charge point and the type of connector an EV supports affects which charging stations it can use. They are found at the ends of charging cables, sometimes both ends and sometimes a single end depending on the cable. Some connectors are made to be used with AC charge points, whilst others are made for use with DC charge points (rapid and ultra-rapid charge points).

AC connectors include type 1 and type 2 connectors. Type 1 connectors can be identified by their having 5 pins, whilst type 2 have 7. Type 2 are more common in the EU and UK and are becoming standardised as they provide numerous advantages over type 1 connectors. For example, Type 2 come with an in-built locking mechanism for security, and can carry three-phase power which enables faster charging speeds where type 1 connectors are only able to allow single phase. Additionally, as EV technology continues to evolve, Type 2 connectors are more future proofed as they are better positioned to handle higher power levels.

Other types of connector include those used for rapid and ultra-rapid charging. Whilst Type 2 connectors can sometimes also be used, typically this is exclusive to Tesla Superchargers. More commonly, CHAdeMO and CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors are used at rapid and ultra-rapid charge points and come attached (tethered) to the charge points themselves. Many DC rapid charging stations offer both CHAdeMO and CCS connectors to accommodate different types of EVs.

CHAdeMO connectors have been developed primarily by Japanese and Korean manufacturers to allow for DC charging and are able to support charging at rates of 50kW, 100kW and higher depending on the charge point. They can be identified most straightforwardly by their design/shape, labelling, and colour. They are usually bulkier than other connector types and come with a handle or grip on top. They also might have the CHAdeMO logo or name somewhere on the connector itself, and often come in orange or other bright colours to differentiate them from other connectors.

CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors, as in the name have combined uses, and can be used for both AC and DC charge points. This is also reflected in their design, as these functions are split into a two-part design. The top part of the connector resembles a type 2 connector which usually has seven pins and is used for AC charge points, while the bottom part contains two additional pins that are used for DC charging. This type of connector can be identified by this unique design, as well as labelling and branding indicating it is a CCS connector.

Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC):

Electricity comes in two forms: AC, the type supplied to homes and businesses and used by slow and fast charge points, and DC, the form stored in and used by EV batteries. As previously covered, AC charging involves the onboard charging system converting AC from the grid to DC for the battery. This prevents faster charging speeds as the onboard charging system limits the rate at which electricity is allowed to enter the battery.

On the other hand, DC charging supplies power directly to the battery, bypassing the vehicle’s onboard charging system and permitting for much faster charging rates. This is why DC charging is used in rapid and ultra-rapid charge points and enables charging speeds that can recharge an EV’s battery up to 80% in minutes rather than hours.

However, because DC charging bypasses your EV’s onboard charging system (specifically the onboard AC-to-DC converter), the EV must be equipped with the correct technology to safely handle high-speed DC charging. As already mentioned, this means having the correct type of connector (e.g. CCS or CHAdeMO). Additionally, it necessitates the EV having an advanced battery management systems to regulate charging speed, monitor the temperature of the battery, and ensure that the battery is charged safely and efficiently.

Does the weather affect my EV range?

The short answer is yes, as with traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, weather conditions can significantly impact the range of your EV.

Cold Weather:

Lower temperatures can significantly reduce the range of your EV due to the additional energy used to heat the interior of your vehicle and to maintain the battery’s optimal operating temperature.

Cold temperatures significantly reduce the range of your EV as additional energy is required not only for heating your vehicle’s interior. In fact, tests show that about two-thirds of the additional energy consumed by an EV in cold weather go towards heating, meaning that range can be preserved by minimising the use of heating where possible.

Additionally, cooler weather also reduces EV range due to the added energy required to maintaining the battery’s optimal operational temperature. In cold conditions the chemical reactions in your EV’s battery that assist generating electricity slow down and energy becomes harder to release from your battery. To counteract this negative effect, most EVs use a battery management system (BMS) to warm the battery to its optimal operational temperature, which uses some energy that otherwise would have contributed to powering your vehicle.

To improve the performance of your EV, we would recommend ‘precondition’ your vehicle whilst it is still charging. To precondition your vehicle whilst it is charging is to heat or cool your vehicle before starting your journey, which uses the electricity from the charge point you use to charge your vehicle rather than the electricity stored in your battery.

Hot Weather:

Similarly to cold weather, higher temperatures also require additional energy regulate the interior of your EV and optimise battery temperature. Just as heating your EV’s interior requires additional energy from your EV’s battery, so does cooling it. Equally, warm weather can heat your battery beyond an optimal level, which means more energy is diverted to keeping the battery at an optimal temperature.

Warmer temperatures can also take a toll on your EV’s battery as over a certain point, warm temperatures can deteriorate battery components and have a negative impact on the longevity and health of your battery. Accordingly, EVs also use their BMS to cool the battery to its ideal temperature in order to provide your vehicle with energy without eroding the health of the battery.

To reduce the impact that this has on your EV, we would recommend parking in the shade where possible and preconditioning your vehicle whilst still charging.

Rain and Ice:

In short, wet and icy conditions also divert energy away from powering your vehicle and in doing so also reduce your EV’s range.

As with petrol and diesel vehicles, rain and ice create additional resistance between the road and your vehicle’s tires, requiring more energy towards powering your vehicle. However, EVs lose some additional energy to the use of other functions of your vehicle such as heating, defoggers, and windshield wipers. As these all draw energy from your EV’s battery which would be assisted by extra heat created by the combustion process in petrol and diesel vehicles, EVs can lose slightly more range than their petrol and diesel equivalents. That said, it’s not all bad news. Many EVs have the ability to recover some of this energy through ‘regenerative braking systems’ that can recoup energy when decelerating.

Other steps you can take to ensure optimal EV performance across varying weather conditions include maintaining proper tire pressure and reducing excess vehicle load.

Tips & Tricks when charging

Plan Ahead Using EV Resources:

When embarking on longer trips with your EV, planning ahead is crucial to ensuring a smooth ride. Consider using EV mapping websites such as Zap Maps to plan the availability and distribution of charge points along your route and provide you with up-to-date notifications on the status of charge points. These resources often factor in crucial variables such as your vehicle’s battery range, charging times, and preferred charging standards, allowing you to make informed decisions about when and where to recharge.

Additionally, it’s also useful to have contingency plans in place, including alternative charging locations or backup routes, in case charge points are occupied for extended periods or closed. By proactively planning your route and leveraging the resources available to EV drivers, you can optimize your travel experience, minimize charging anxiety, and go on longer journeys with confidence.

Optimal Charging:

Try to keep your battery’s charge between 20% and 80%. Charging up to 100% is generally not necessary for daily use and can strain the battery over time, as well as disproportionately increasing the cost and duration of charging.

As mentioned in ‘How long does it take to charge my EV?, under ‘The Tapering Effect’, charging after 80% takes much longer in order to preventing overheating and to protect battery longevity. Also, beyond 80% the charging rate noticeably slows down, so charging to 80% is equally beneficial to reduce charging duration and cost.

Timers:

You can quickly maximize charging your EV by leveraging various features and strategies to optimize your charging schedule. For example, many EV models and charging points offer convenient features that allow users to set timers, permitting you to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.

By programming your EV to charge during periods of low demand, you can significantly reduce the cost of charging. This can usually be accomplished by charging during off-peak hours such as early in the morning or late at night. This not only helps save money on your charge session, is also more sustainable as renewable energy sources are more frequently used in these periods. This is because times of lower overall electricity demand often result in the surplus generation of renewable energy.

To make the most of timers, research your EV’s charging settings and identify the capabilities of the charge points you use. Also, consider incorporating smart charging solutions or mobile apps that provide scheduling functionalities, allowing you to select your charging routine based on the structure of your electricity tariff and personal preferences.

Regular Maintenance:

While EVs largely require less upkeep compared to conventional vehicles, conducting regular maintenance and taking full care of your EV’s battery is vital to ensuring the longevity and health of your vehicle. To correctly care for your vehicle and it’s battery system, please refer to your vehicle’s user manual or manufacturer’s website.

That said, here are a few general steps you can take to adhere to manufacturer guidelines for maintaining your battery:

Regular Monitoring and Inspection: It’s advisable to occasionally check your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics or monitoring systems for any irregularities in the state of charge (SOC) or state of health (SOH) of your battery. The SOC is the amount of energy stored in the battery, and the SOH is a measure of the health and degradation of the battery over time. Specifically, you should watch out for any irregular behaviour or abnormalities related unusual charging patterns, battery temperature fluctuations, or any unexplained reduction in range.
Follow Recommended Charging Practices: It’s also good practice to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging your EV, including preferred charging methods, voltage levels, and charging frequency. Also, as previously discussed in this guide, you should consider avoiding regularly charging the battery to maximum capacity or allowing it to discharge completely by reaching zero as this can put unnecessary strain on the battery and reduce its lifespan.
Manage Temperature and Environmental Conditions: Where possible avoid subjecting your EV’s battery to extreme temperatures, hot or cold, as temperature fluctuations can affect battery performance and longevity. For more detail, please refer to the answer for ‘Does the weather affect my EV range?’. Also, if you plan on storing your EV in one place for an extended period, it’s recommended to first charge the battery to sufficient levels (ideally around 50%) and maintain moderate temperatures to prevent damage over time.
Software Updates and Maintenance: Stay informed about software updates for your vehicle and any recalls issued by your EV’s manufacturer, especially related to the battery management system or battery parts. As with any vehicle, it is also good practice to schedule regular maintenance checks to inspect the battery system, conduct diagnostic tests, and resolve any potential issues as soon as possible.

Preconditioning:

Preconditioning is an innovative feature in electric vehicles (EVs) that allows drivers to optimize their vehicle’s battery temperature and interior before starting a journey and without using the electricity stored in their vehicle’s battery. This is highly beneficial for driver comfort, battery efficiency, and preserving range. It is achieved by using electricity from the grid rather than the battery to cool or heat your EV whilst it is still charging.

It is particularly useful in extreme weather conditions and can be activated in most EVs via the vehicle’s onboard interface, or remotely through smartphone apps. For example, if you had a Tesla, you could use the Tesla app to activate your vehicle’s preconditioning whilst it is still charging before the start of your journey.

During colder months, preconditioning warms up the EV’s interior and battery while it’s still connected to a charging station, ensuring that the car starts off with a full charge and, importantly, a warm battery. A warm battery operates more efficiently, which can significantly improve the vehicle’s range and performance as cold temperatures can reduce battery efficiency and consequently the range of an EV. Conversely, in hot weather, preconditioning can cool down the vehicle’s interior and battery, again enhancing efficiency and comfort before setting off.

In other words, pre-cooling or pre-heating action while connected to a charge point means that the energy required for temperature regulation doesn’t deplete the battery’s stored charge, preserving the range of your EV.

However, not all EVs support preconditioning or preconditioning whilst charging. To check if your EV supports preconditioning and how to use it, check your vehicle’s user manual, or the manufacturer’s website.

Freeing Trapped Cables:

If you find your cable to be stuck when attempting to charge your vehicle at one of our charge points, please follow the following steps:

Ensure you have stopped the charge via the Monta app, and you have unlocked your vehicle. Once your vehicle is unlocked, release the cable from the vehicle first then pull out from the charge point.
Start a new charge session on the same charge point via the app, connect the charging cable into the vehicle and lock the vehicle. Wait a couple of minutes then stop the charge via the app. Unlock the vehicle, disconnect the charge cable from the vehicle then unplug the charging lead from the charge point. (Tip: You may hear a mechanical click noise within the charge point when unlocking)
Call the EV Park support team who will be able to remotely release the charging cable from the charge point and advise accordingly. You can call us on 0208 176 6119.

Also, please note that all charge points communicate into our cloud based smart back-office system so remote commands can take a couple of minutes to be received by the charge point depending on the signal strength to the charge point.