How long to charge an electric car or van? Instantly calculate EV charging times below:
EV Charging Calculator
How to use our our EV charging time calculator
Our EV charging calculator helps you work out charging times for any electric vehicle. Simply enter your car’s battery capacity in kilowatt-hours (kWh) – you can find this in your vehicle manual or specifications. Then input your current battery percentage and desired target charge level. Finally, select your charging power from the dropdown menu, which includes everything from home charging to rapid DC options. Click ‘Calculate’ to see your estimated charging time and the total energy needed.
Understanding EV charging times
Electric vehicle charging times can vary significantly based on multiple factors. While many new EV drivers focus solely on the charging station’s power rating, the reality is more complex. Let’s explore the key elements that influence how long it takes to charge an electric car.
Battery size and state of charge
The size of your car’s battery pack is one of the most fundamental factors affecting charging time. A larger battery simply requires more energy to fill. For instance, a Nissan Leaf with a 40 kWh battery will charge more quickly than a Tesla Model S with a 100 kWh battery when using the same charger. However, the larger battery provides more range, so you may need to charge less frequently.
Your battery’s current state of charge also plays a crucial role. Charging speeds are typically fastest when the battery is between 20% and 80% capacity. This is why many manufacturers and charging networks quote their fastest charging times within this range. Beyond 80%, charging speeds often reduce significantly to protect the battery, a process known as tapering.
Charging power and types
The power output of your charging station is measured in kilowatts (kW) and directly affects charging speed. In the UK, there are several common charging levels: home charging typically operates at either 2.4 kW through a standard 3-pin socket or 7.4 kW with a dedicated home charger.
While 2.4 kW charging is the slowest option, taking around 15-20 hours for a typical EV, a 7.4 kW home charger can fully charge most EVs overnight in 8-12 hours.Public AC charging stations commonly offer 7-22 kW, depending on the location and infrastructure. These are ideal for top-up charging while shopping or dining, typically adding 25-75 miles of range per hour of charging.
Rapid DC chargers start at 50 kW and can go up to 350 kW for the latest ultra-rapid chargers. These can add 100-200 miles of range in just 30 minutes, depending on your vehicle’s capabilities.
Vehicle capabilities
Not all electric vehicles can accept the maximum power output of every charger. Your car’s onboard charger determines the maximum AC charging rate, while its DC charging capability sets the limit for rapid charging. For example, while a charging station might offer 22 kW AC charging, many EVs are limited to 7.4 kW or 11 kW AC charging.
For DC charging, capabilities vary widely. Early EVs might be limited to 50 kW, while modern vehicles like the Porsche Taycan can accept up to 270 kW. It’s important to note that purchasing a vehicle with higher charging capabilities only benefits you when using compatible high-power chargers.
Temperature effects
Battery temperature significantly impacts charging speed. Lithium-ion batteries perform best between 20-25°C, and many EVs include battery thermal management systems to maintain optimal temperature. Cold weather can particularly affect charging speeds, as batteries need to be warmed up before accepting their maximum charging rate.
This is why many EVs include battery pre-conditioning, which warms the battery while driving to a rapid charger. Without pre-conditioning, initial charging speeds can be significantly reduced in cold weather, sometimes by 50% or more.
Battery preservation and charging curves
Manufacturers implement sophisticated charging curves to preserve battery life. These curves determine how much power the battery can accept at different charge levels.
Initially, power intake rises until it reaches its peak, typically between 20-60% state of charge. It then gradually decreases as the battery fills up. This tapering effect is why charging from 80% to 100% often takes as long as charging from 20% to 80%. For this reason, on long journeys, it’s usually more time-efficient to charge to 80%.