Close How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of driving in Burlington, Princeton, and Trenton, NJ, thanks to their widespread efficiency.
With their sudden spike in popularity, there are many questions about how charging works. How long does it take to charge an electric car? What are the different types of EV chargers? Burlington Kia is here to answer your questions.
Electric Car Charging 101: Understanding the Basics
EVs have a big battery that stores electricity, which powers the car’s motor, so it utilizes a charger rather than gas. Charging an EV is like charging your phone or laptop; you plug it into a power source to maximize its energy.
The amount of time an EV takes to charge depends on various factors, such as the type of charger, battery state, and specific vehicle. For example, the bigger the battery, the longer it takes to charge. Charging times also depend on how empty the battery is when charging.
To provide you with a specific circumstance, the Kia EV6 can add up to 217 miles of range in as little as 18 minutes when using ultra-fast charging.*
Dissecting the Levels of Electric Car Charging
There are various levels of electric vehicle chargers, each designed with a specific purpose...
- Level 1 Charger: This is a basic charger you can plug into most standard household outlets. It usually adds about 3-5 miles of range per hour. Charging a fully depleted battery can take 20 to 40 hours, but you can charge it at home whenever you want.
- Level 2 Charger: This is a faster charger you can install at home or use at public charging stations. The outlet it uses is like that of a dryer. So, if installed, it adds about 15-25 miles of range per hour. A full charge can take four to eight hours to complete.
- Level 3 Charger (DC Fast Charger): This is the fastest option, typically found at public charging stations, like gas stations and parking lots. It can add up to 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes, and depending on the car, a full charge can take around 1 hour to complete.
Our Kia team recommends installing a Level 2 Charger at home for ultimate convenience. If you’d like one installed, we can supply you with the specific Kia-recommended parts you need.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Electric Car Charge
Now that you understand the basics, let's talk about how to make the most of each charge. Getting the most out of your electric car's battery can help you drive longer distances and reduce the charging frequency.
First, your driving habits can affect power consumption. Gentle acceleration and braking will help your battery last longer and get you more miles per charge. EVs often have regenerative braking, which captures energy lost during braking and sends it back to the battery, adding a little extra range.
Like any car, properly inflated tires can improve your EV's efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the recommended levels to ensure you're getting the most out of each charge.
External conditions, such as extreme temperatures, can affect the health of your vehicle’s battery. Parking in shaded or covered areas and staying within moderate temperatures for longer periods of time can help you maximize the power of your EV battery long-term.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car? Learn More Today!
At Burlington Kia, we’re committed to helping you navigate the world of electric vehicles around Burlington, Princeton, and Trenton, New Jersey.
If you have any questions about EV charging, need advice on your options, or want to explore our range of electric cars, contact our team today!
*Based on EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov. With the 77.4 kWh battery, vehicle can add approx. 217 range miles in 18 mins. w/800v DC fast charging. Charging time will vary. Fast charging impacts battery durability.