EV charging made simple. Electric vehicle’s are flooding into the auto market, by 2030 we are expected to have around 125 million EVs. All first time EV buyers are making the transition from filling up at petrol stations to plugging in basically anywhere with the choice of at home or EV charging stations. Below are some points to consider to get the most out of your charge.
Firstly, you need to choose which method of charging suits your daily needs. For short everyday commuting, charging at home overnight will give you more than enough range needed. This is the cheapest, most popular method.
There also is the option to top up the charge on the go, for example, while you’re at work or running errands, by plugging in your EV at a charging station. If your needs are longer road trips, planning your journey ahead of time is an essential way to make sure your drive is going to be electrifying.
Secondly, you need to learn a few more technical aspects such as charging level, charging mode, and AC/DC current. There are three charging levels, 1, 2, or 3. Each level differentiates charging to your EV based on voltage, which is the speed of energy delivery. You need to learn which charge speed, voltage, and plug and socket type is best for your vehicle and will help your get the best charge for your specific EV battery. If you are a first time electric car buyer, be sure to check for any local incentives providing rebates, tax credits, or discounts to help reduce your upfront cost.
Here are 10 top tips for EV Charging
Your everyday EV charging experience can be made easy, peasy, lemon squeezy. Since EV’s are still a relatively new concept these few methods should help your transition into going electric. Here are 10 top tips for EV charging, simplified to make your electric vehicle experience smooth and your driving full of range!
1. Download Apps
As EV infrastructure improves and electric vehicles become even more common there will be plenty of charging options around to choose from. For now, it’s best to plan your route ahead of time. There are many free apps on the market such as PlugShare, Chargehub, Chargewayand BetterRoutePlanner.
These apps make your planning easy by allowing tailored route planning depending on the electric vehicle type you own. You can mark your distance and see available charging stations on the route. The apps will show if the charging stations are already being used and if they are actively functioning. So no wasted journey is made. With PlugShare you can even list your home charging station to other drivers in your area.
2. Carry a Portable Charger
It’s always good to have a backup option. Even with perfect planning, you must leave room for the unexpected! Portable chargers are a great way to ensure you can have an extra top up if needed. Portable chargers allow charge from household sockets. A cost effective way to get a top up charge from home, or after meeting at a friend’s.
3. Travel Outside of Peak Hours
Whenever possible travel outside of peak hours. You will tend to find fewer charging points available during these times. If you do find available charging points during peak hours you’ll be paying more since the cost of electricity is more expensive during these hours: 8-11 am, 4-10 pm.
4. Keep it Cool
You should always leave your electric vehicle parked in the shade when possible. High temperatures can be damaging to the electric car’s battery life over time. Similar to how your phone would react if left in the sun!
5. Join an EV Community Platform
One great way you can stay up to date with the latest EV news and trends is by joining a platform on your preferred social media. @evchargeplus on Instagram is great for trends and up to date EV news.
Another great way to keep posted is by finding a discussion related thread on platforms such as Reddit or Facebook, to answer any questions you might have about your electric journey.
6. Look after your battery
This one sounds pretty obvious. But for the longevity of your vehicle it’s important you look after your Electric car battery. For instance, as a general rule, you shouldn’t leave your battery to drain before charging.
It is best to plan to recharge at 30%. It is also best for your battery life to keep maximum power at around 80%. However, most EV’s have a built in buffer to ensure you don’t overcharge, meaning when your charge says full it’s actually a little under. Lastly, limit your amount of fast charges. Sure, it’s fast but over time this can take away from battery life over time.
7. Safely Store your EV Charging Equipment
Store and protect your EV charging equipment. Store equipment such as car chargers and adapters safely in a protective casing, to keep them away from dust, debris, or any damp conditions. This is essential for not only the longevity of your EV and charging equipment, but also for safety.
8. Slow Down
Whoa, there cowboy! Slow down. Driving slower will conserve energy use from your battery. The faster you go, the faster you drain your EV’s battery. If you refrain from keeping your foot on the accelerator, over time you’ll increase your battery’s life.
9. Install an EV Charging Station at home
If you have the space, an EV charging station is a great investment. Home charging is the cheapest method of charge. Not only that but installing an electric car station at your home can add value to your property. When charging from home overnight, it’s essential to time your charge to make sure you don’t overcharge your EV.
10. Go Even Greener
Nowadays, you can purchase solar panels at pretty affordable prices. If installed on your roof and sized appropriately to provide for your EV charging and other household needs, you would save upwards of €1000 per year. Not to mention purchasing an electric car is already a great improvement on carbon footprint and using solar energy would make you much less reliant on nonrenewable energy.
Make the most of your electric journey with these EV charging tips. Cheers to a greener future and happy charging!
5th October 2022