A Comprehensive Guide To Navigating Public Chargers

When driving an electric vehicle, you can find yourself in an occasion where you don't have enough charge to go the distance you need to. Nowadays, public charging stations are available to help you on your journey, so you don't need to worry about running out of charge or change your plans.

Who can use public chargers?

They are available for all electric vehicles to use, no matter the shape, size, or make of your vehicle. Generally there are two main types of charging unit:

1) The first is called a destination charging point. This type has a slower charging speed and is designed for use while you spend time doing an activity such as shopping, grabbing a coffee with a friend, or going to the gym.

2) The second type is called an on-the-road charger or rapid charger. As the name suggests, these are much faster and designed for quick top-ups to charge while on a longer journey. The time spent charging may vary from unit to unit, but a typical charge at a rapid charger is around thirty minutes or less. No time at all really!

How to use public charging points

Both types of chargers are easy and efficient to use. Simply locate a charging point on your journey and park your car next to it. Check the location of the charging port on your car beforehand (usually front or side) and park so it's closest to the charger.

Match the correct connector from the charger to your car's charging port. Many public chargers come with cables, like our pedestal chargers. If one isn't provided, you'll need your own.

The only thing left to do is pay. Most charging units are contactless friendly but some will have their own app which will require you to make an account to set up a payment.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

Here's a breakdown of how long a charge might take depending on the charger you use:

Slow charger (3.7kW): Can add up to 15 miles of range in an hour.

Home charger (7kW): Can add up to 30 miles of range in an hour.

Fast charger (22kW): Can add up to 90 miles of range in an hour.

Rapid charger (50kW): Can add up to 90 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

Ultra-rapid charger (150kW): Can add up to 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

Ultra-rapid charger (350kW): Can add over 200 miles of range in just 20 minutes (though few cars can handle this yet).

This information is based on averages and may vary depending on your specific car and circumstances. But as you can see, electric car charging can be much faster than you might think!

Can all EVs use a Tesla charger?

Good news for non-Tesla electric vehicle (EV) owners! As of 2022, Tesla has opened up a portion of their Supercharger network to most EVs equipped with a CCS (Combo Charging System) connector. Additionally, their destination chargers are now accessible to almost all EVs using the common Type 2 connector.

This means you can now enjoy the convenience and speed of Tesla's charging infrastructure, even if you don't drive a Tesla. Just make sure your car has the compatible connector type before heading to a Tesla charging station.

Cost of charge

Public EV chargers cost more for rapid charging, which is faster but pricier, than for slower destination charging. The price also depends on your car and battery size, but generally falls between 50p and 80p per kWh.

Where can I find public charging locations?

Charging your car on the go is easier than ever! With more charging points becoming increasingly available and clearly marked on Google Maps, range anxiety is a thing of the past. Supermarkets, service stations, public car parks, retail parks, and even some restaurants often have charging points, making it quick, effective, and easy to top up on the go. When using an evec pedestal charger, you can see the charging stations and parking spaces clearly even in the dark or early in the morning thanks to their integrated LED lights.

No more range anxiety, wherever your journey takes you! You'll always be within easy reach of a charging point, whether you're on a long road trip or exploring a new city. So relax, stay confident, and enjoy the drive, knowing you can easily top up and reach your destination seamlessly.