Would you like to install an EV charger at home?
Installing a home electric vehicle (EV) charger offers numerous benefits that make it a worthwhile investment for EV owners.
Convenience
Having a home EV charger allows you to conveniently charge your vehicle overnight or whenever it's parked at home. This eliminates the need to visit public charging stations, saving you time and effort.
Cost savings
Charging your EV at home is generally more affordable than using public charging stations. Home electricity rates are often lower, especially during off-peak hours, resulting in reduced charging costs over time.
Faster charging
Home EV chargers typically offer faster charging speeds compared to standard electrical outlets. This means you can fully charge your vehicle overnight or within a few hours, depending on the charger's capacity and your EV's battery size.
Increased range and flexibility
With a home EV charger, you can start each day with a fully charged battery, providing you with an extended driving range. This eliminates range anxiety, allowing you to freely plan longer trips without worrying about running out of charge.
Energy management
Some home EV chargers come with smart features that enable you to schedule charging during off-peak hours or when renewable energy sources are abundant. This helps optimize energy usage and reduce electricity costs further.
Resale value
Homes equipped with EV chargers tend to have higher resale values as the demand for EV charging infrastructure increases. Installing a home charger can be seen as an attractive feature for potential buyers, adding value to your property.
Environmental benefits
By charging your EV at home, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint compared to relying on fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Utilising electricity from renewable sources further enhances the environmental benefits of electric transportation.
Independence from public infrastructure
Owning a home EV charger ensures that you have a reliable charging option, regardless of the availability or accessibility of public charging stations. This independence provides peace of mind and flexibility in your daily driving routine.
Overall, having a home EV charger offers convenience, cost savings, faster charging, increased range, energy management capabilities, improved property value, environmental benefits, and independence from public infrastructure. These advantages make installing a home EV charger a valuable investment for EV owners.
There are a few factors to keep in mind before you purchase an EV charger:
Tethered or untethered EV charger
The terms "tethered" and "untethered" refer to the way the charging cable is attached to the charging station.
A tethered charger has a permanently attached charging cable. This means that the cable is fixed to the charging station and cannot be removed. The charging cable typically has a specific plug type, such as Type 1 or Type 2, which is compatible with a specific type of electric vehicle. When using a tethered charger, you don't need to carry your own charging cable as it is already attached to the station.
An untethered charger, on the other hand, does not have a permanently attached charging cable. Instead, it has a socket or outlet where you can plug in your own charging cable. This allows you to use a charging cable that matches the specific plug type of your electric vehicle. Untethered chargers are more flexible as they can accommodate different EV models, but you need to bring your own cable.
Both tethered and untethered chargers have their advantages and disadvantages. Tethered chargers are more convenient if the charging cable matches your vehicle's plug type, as you don't need to carry your own cable. On the other hand, untethered chargers are more versatile as they can accommodate different plug types by simply using the appropriate charging cable. However, you need to ensure you have the correct charging cable with you when using an untethered charger.
Type of plug
In the UK, the most common types of EV charger plugs are:
This plug is widely used in the UK and Europe for both AC and DC charging. It has a 7-pin configuration, with two power pins for charging and five additional pins for communication and safety features.
CCS is a standard that combines the Type 2 plug with two additional pins for DC fast charging. It is increasingly being adopted in the UK and is compatible with most new EV models.
Although less common in the UK, some fast charging stations still provide CHAdeMO plugs. This plug is primarily used for DC fast charging and is commonly found in Japanese vehicles.
Tesla vehicles have their proprietary charging system, known as the Tesla Supercharger. While most Tesla charging stations have Tesla-specific plugs, many also have CCS connectors for compatibility with other EVs.
It's worth noting that the majority of public charging stations in the UK offer Type 2 connectors, which are compatible with most electric vehicles. Additionally, many charging stations have multiple plug options to accommodate different EV models.
Rate of power
In the UK, EV chargers typically offer different rates of power, which are commonly referred to as charging speeds. The most common charging speeds for EV chargers in the UK are:
These chargers usually provide power at a rate of 3.6 kW. Slow chargers are commonly found in residential areas, and they are suitable for overnight charging or when you have ample time to charge your vehicle.
Fast chargers provide power at a rate of 7 kW to 22 kW. These chargers are commonly found in public places like shopping centres, car parks, and workplaces. Fast chargers can charge your EV significantly faster compared to slow chargers, making them suitable for longer stops during the day.
Rapid chargers are the fastest charging option available in the UK. They offer power at rates of 50 kW or higher. Some rapid chargers can provide even higher power levels, such as 150 kW or 350 kW. Rapid chargers are usually located along major highways, motorways, or at dedicated charging stations. They can charge an EV to 80% capacity in around 30 minutes, making them ideal for long-distance travel or quick top-ups.
It's worth noting that the charging speed of an EV charger also depends on the capability of the electric vehicle itself. Some EVs are only capable of charging at slower speeds, regardless of the charging station's maximum power output.
How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?
The cost to charge an electric vehicle (EV) in the UK can vary depending on various factors such as the electricity tariff, the charging speed, and the efficiency of the EV. Below are some factors to consider when you are considering having an EV charger installed:
Electricity tariffs
The cost of electricity for charging an EV can vary based on the tariff you are on. Some electricity suppliers offer dedicated EV tariffs, which provide cheaper rates during off-peak hours or discounted rates specifically for EV charging.
Cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh)
The cost of electricity is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). As of 2021, the average cost of electricity in the UK is around 14p to 18p per kWh for residential consumers. However, EV tariffs or specific charging plans may offer lower rates, which can range from 4p to 8p per kWh during off-peak hours.
Charging efficiency
The efficiency of the EV can impact the cost of charging. EVs have different efficiency levels, meaning some require more electricity to travel the same distance compared to others. The average electric car has an efficiency of around 3 to 4 miles per kWh, but this can vary depending on the model and driving conditions.
Charging speeds
The charging speed can also affect the cost. Rapid chargers, which provide higher power levels, may have higher charging costs compared to slower chargers. However, rapid chargers can charge the vehicle faster, reducing the overall time spent charging.
Estimated costs
On average, charging an EV to cover 100 miles of driving can cost between £3 to £6, depending on the factors mentioned above. This cost estimate is based on current electricity prices and average efficiency levels.
It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on your specific circumstances. It is recommended to check with your energy supplier or use online calculators that consider your specific tariff, energy consumption, and charging requirements to get a more accurate estimate of the charging cost for your EV.