Charging An Electric Car In Public

As electric vehicles become more popular, a key part of owning an EV is knowing how to charge it, especially in public. This article will explain what electric charging stations are and how they work, as well as how to use one, how much it costs and how long it takes. We'll also provide you with some handy tips for finding your local EV charging station.

Whether you're a new EV owner or considering purchasing one, this guide will help you navigate the essentials of EV charging.

The number of EV charging stations is increasing across the UK, making it easier for EV owners to access power whenever and wherever they need it.

One of the primary reasons EV owners rely on charging stations is the need to top up their vehicle's charge during journeys. Whether you're on a long trip or making shorter daily commutes, the availability of public charging stations provides peace of mind, especially for those who have chosen not to install an EV chargepoint at home. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in urban areas, allowing them the opportunity to choose an EV as their next vehicle purchase.

Interestingly, there are, now more electric vehicle charging points than petrol stations, this milestone highlights the significant shift to EVs for many, as demand grows so do charging stations.

We understand using an EV charging station for the first time can be a daunting experience, which is why we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to make your first time as easy as it can be.

1. Arriving and parking: On arrival, drive into the designated EV charging spot, ensuring your vehicle is correctly positioned for easy access to the charging port.
2. Payment: After parking, activate your charger either using the charging station’s app, RFID card, or payment terminal.
3. Plug-in your vehicle: Following payment activation, plug in your vehicle using the charger at the station or via the connecter which you can find in your vehicle.
4. Keep an eye on progress: When connected, manage your vehicle's charge via the screen on your charging station or via your EV's dashboard.
5. Stop charging and unplug: Once your vehicle has the correct amount of charge for your needs, stop the charger via the app of the charging station and return the charger to its holder.
6. Drive on to your destination: Leave the charging spot ready for the next customer.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and efficient charging experience to get you on your way in no time!

According to ZapMap, the average price to charge an electric car at a public charging station is 57p/kWh on slow/fast chargers and 80p/kWh for rapid/ultra-rapid chargers. This price compared to an average efficiency EV this averages to 17p per mile and 24p per mile. (Correct as of June 2024). Correct as of June 2024 petrol prices were averaging 145.1 pence per litre and diesel averaging 150.6 per litre.

Inputting your vehicle details into this public charging calculator will give you specific data for your EV, including precise estimates of how much it will cost to charge your car or van model.

There are multiple payment options available when using a public charging station. It is, however, important to note these are card-only points!

1. Mobile Apps: Many charging stations have dedicated mobile apps which allow you to start and stop charging sessions as well as manage payments. If you have an app pre-downloaded onto your device, it can also help locate your nearest charging station.
2. RFID Card: Some charging stations provide RFID cards that can be used to activate and pay for charging.
3. Credit/Debit Card: Some charging stations accept direct payments via physical credit or debit cards.
4. Contactless Payment: Most up-to-date charging stations support contactless payments allowing you to tap your card or mobile device to activate payment.
5. Subscription or Membership Plans: Some networks offer subscription plans that provide discounted rates or unlimited charging for a monthly fee. This option can be worth the investment if you occasionally use a public charging station.

For convenience, there are many different payment options available. Each method involves simple steps to activate the charger for fast efficient charging.

Sometimes known as 'EV Charge Cards', an RFID card, stands for 'Radio Frequency Identification’. RFID can have multiple applications, when it comes to EV charging, RFID cards are used to make it easy to pay for charging. An RFID card lets you start a charge at a public charging point by tapping your card against the reader.

Following on, you may now be wondering how to get an RFID card for electric vehicle charging. Start by choosing a suitable charging network such as BP Pulse or Shell amongst many others. Ensure you do the right research to find the best charging network for you and your needs. Once you’ve made your decision, follow the steps needed by your chosen provider to receive your RFID card. When you're all set up and your card is ready for use, swipe or tap your card at a compatible station to get the most out of your card.

To determine how long it takes to charge an electric car at a public charging station, you’ll need to consider the type of charger available and your vehicle’s battery capacity. Public charging stations typically offer different levels of chargers:

• Slow Chargers: These chargers charge at a rate of about 2-5 miles of range per hour. They are suitable for topping up over a longer period, such as overnight stays.
• Fast Chargers (Level 2): These chargers are more common and charge at a rate of about 10-30 miles of range per hour. They are suitable for everyday charging needs and are often found in commercial and public parking areas.
• Rapid Chargers (DC): These chargers provide the fastest charging and can deliver up to 80% charge in approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the EV model. These are typically located along motorways, catering to those drivers needing quick recharges during a long journey.

Utilising a public charging calculator tailored to your specific EV model can provide a precise estimate of how long a charge will take for your vehicle.

Finding local EV charging stations is easy with dedicated apps, websites, and online maps. For instance, Zap-Map, widely used in the UK, offers detailed maps of nearby charging points, including charge types, availability, and user ratings. Additionally, major networks like BP Pulse and Shell Recharge provide interactive maps, and Google and Apple Maps have integrated EV charging station information into their search results. By utilising available tools, EV drivers can confidently navigate their charging needs, ensuring they have access to reliable charging to minimise stress when on the road.

For more information on electric vehicles, visit the JCT600 Electric Hub. Whether you're considering switching to an EV or are already an owner, our Electric Hub offers insights and resources to support your electric journey.