With the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe, public charging points for EVs are playing a key role in the transition to more sustainable mobility. By the end of September 2024, there are over 1,250,000 fully electric cars in the UK. (Stats Zapmap)
The majority of charging is carried out at home or at work, but public charging points remain essential when on the go or during long journeys. However, new EV owners often wonder how these public charging points work. We offer a clear understanding of their functioning, day-to-day use, and importance in electric mobility 🔋.
Public charging points for EVs are obviously essential for EV drivers. They allow them to charge their cars in complete safety while on the go. These charging points play a fundamental role in ensuring sufficient range for journeys, particularly over long distances. But what exactly is a ‘public charging point’?
Public charging points are accessible to everyone. They are installed on public roads or in private locations open to the public (such as car parks, shopping centres, petrol stations, etc.), and allow for EV charging in complete safety. There are several categories of charging points, depending on the power rating of the charge and the time needed to achieve full range. Public charging points, particularly rapid and ultra-rapid ones, ensure the continuity of long journeys without the inconvenience of slow charging.
Thanks to the Chargemap app, you can easily locate the public charging points that are available around you. You can check their availability in real time and consult other drivers’ reviews to find out more. The app also allows you to filter charging points by power rating, cost and vehicle compatibility.
If you’re new to driving an EV, understanding how charging points work is an important part of planning your journeys (and avoiding potential problems in the process 🙃). The steps to follow and the types of charging points are the first aspects you need to know about:
These ultra-rapid charging points are compatible only with the latest generation of EVs equipped with batteries that can withstand such power ratings. They are mainly found on major motorways, so that drivers can get back on the road quickly. Find out all you need to know about fast recharging!
✅ Practical advice: before setting off on a long journey, always check the availability of charging points on your route, especially at peak times. What’s more, allowing an extra battery margin can prevent you from running out of power if the charging point is already occupied or faulty.
Charging costs vary according to a number of factors, including the power rating of the charging point, its location (city or motorway) and the network operator. Each operator applies its own pricing model, which may include several types of billing:
Charging points located on motorways are often more expensive because they require additional investment (site rent, maintenance, etc.). Chargemap allows users to check the rates before they start charging, via the app, and to adjust their budget according to the charging points available nd out how to save money on charging your electric car.
As mentioned, charging prices vary according to a number of criteria, including the power rating of the charging point (the faster the charging point, the more expensive it is) and its location (charging points in towns and cities are often cheaper than those on motorways). Operators charge either per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or per minute. So it’s a good idea to check the rates using the Chargemap app, which will help you find the cheapest charging points.
Normal charging points, also known as AC (alternating current) charging points, are suitable for long stops. They provide slower charging, ideal for overnight stays or extended parking (shopping centres, workplaces). Rapid and ultra-rapid charging points, on the other hand, use direct current (DC) and are designed to charge vehicles in record time, often in less than 30 minutes. This type of charging point is particularly useful for long journeys 🚙 where rapid charging is essential.
Checking the availability of a charging point beforehand is essential, especially at peak times or during holidays. The Chargemap app not only lets you check in real time whether a charging point is available or occupied, but also view the opinions of other users. If a charging point is faulty or in high demand, always have a plan B with alternative charging points nearby.
Most charging points are compatible with recent electric vehicles, but it’s important to check that the connector is suitable. In Europe, the Type 2 plug is the standard for AC charging points, while DC fast charging points generally use CCS or CHAdeMO connectors. The Chargemap app allows you to filter for charging points that are compatible with your vehicle to simplify your search.
For AC (alternating current) charging points, you’ll need to use your own charging cable, which is often supplied with your vehicle. You can get a compatible cable from suppliers like Mister EV for a more user-friendly experience. On the other hand, for rapid and ultra-rapid (DC) charging points, the cable is usually built into the charging point, which simplifies the connection for the user.
Some public charging points offer free sessions, usually in shopping centre, municipality or company car parks . Chargemap allows you to locate these free charging points and plan your journeys accordingly. Find out where to find free charging points near you?
Charging an electric vehicle at a public charging point is becoming easier all the time, thanks to the development of infrastructure. Whether in town or on the motorway, public charging points are now ubiquitous, allowing you to travel with peace of mind. Enjoy your electric journey! 🚗⚡
As EVs gain traction as a sustainable alternative to traditional combustion engine vehicles, the need for accessible and efficient charging infrastructure becomes paramount. Understanding how public charging stations work is essential for current EV owners and those considering switching to electric mobility.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the inner workings of public charging stations, unraveling the complexities and shedding light on their functionality. From the basics to advanced technologies, we will explore every aspect, empowering you with the knowledge needed to maximize the potential of these charging stations and fully embrace the future of transportation. So, let’s embark on this illuminating journey, demystifying public charging stations and recognizing their pivotal role in driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Electric vehicles differ significantly from their conventional counterparts. The heart of an electric vehicle lies in its advanced components that enable efficient and eco-friendly operation. Three primary components power an EV:
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