EV Charging Times: How Long Does It Take to Charge an EV?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity across the UK, and with that comes the need for efficient, accessible charging infrastructure. Electric car charging time is influenced by several factors, including the type of charging station used, battery capacity, and vehicle specifications. Whether you’re operating a business, managing a workplace car park, or installing chargers in public areas, understanding electric vehicle charge times is essential to delivering a smooth experience and making informed investment decisions.

Why Charge Times Matter to EV Charger Operators

For businesses, local councils, property developers and workplace managers, charge time impacts everything from user satisfaction to profitability. Here’s how:

Public Spaces

Faster charge times increase user turnover, helping you serve more people and boost revenue. Providing both public and home charging options allows users to plan ahead and ensures access to public chargers when needed.

Workplaces

Staff expect their vehicles to charge during the workday. Slow chargers may not suffice for larger batteries.

Fleet & Business Use

Companies need fast, reliable charging that allows vehicles to top up between appointments or deliveries.

Destination & Long-Stay Locations

Slower, cost-effective chargers can work well where drivers park for several hours or overnight.

Popular EVs in the UK and Charging Time Comparison

Charging speed depends on several variables: the EV model, battery capacity, charging power, and charger type. The table below shows how many miles of range can be added at different charging speeds, depending on battery capacity, charging power, and the vehicle’s maximum rate for accepting a charge.

Different charging speeds, battery capacity, and the vehicle’s maximum rate for charging power all influence how much range can be added and how quickly an EV can be charged. The actual miles of range gained during a charging session will depend on these factors, as well as how much the battery is already charged when you start. Understanding these variables helps drivers estimate how much range they can add during a quick stop and plan their trips more effectively.

Types of EV Chargers

When it comes to electric car charging, the type of charger you choose plays a crucial role in determining electric car charging times and overall convenience for users. Understanding the different types of EV chargers helps businesses and site operators select the right solution for their needs and ensures drivers can charge their vehicles efficiently.

Slow Chargers (Up to 3.7 kW):These chargers are typically found in home settings or locations where vehicles are parked for extended periods, such as overnight. Slow chargers are ideal for top-up charging but have the longest electric car charging times, often taking 8–24 hours for a full charge depending on the vehicle’s battery size.

Fast Chargers (7 kW to 22 kW):Fast chargers are commonly installed at workplaces, car parks, and retail locations. They significantly reduce charging times compared to slow chargers, usually delivering a full charge in 3–8 hours. Fast chargers are a popular choice for businesses looking to support staff or customers who park for several hours.

Rapid Chargers (43 kW AC or 50 kW DC):Rapid chargers are designed for quick top-ups and are often found at service stations, public charging points, and busy urban locations. They can charge an electric car to 80% in as little as 30–60 minutes, making them ideal for drivers on the go or those needing a quick boost during longer trips.

Ultra-Rapid Chargers (100 kW+):Ultra-rapid chargers are the fastest option available, with power outputs of 100 kW or more. These chargers are increasingly common at motorway service areas and high-traffic public locations. They can deliver a substantial charge in just 15–30 minutes, depending on the vehicle’s charging capacity and battery management system.

Choosing the right mix of EV chargers—slow, fast, rapid, or ultra-rapid—can help businesses and public spaces cater to a wide range of electric vehicles and user needs, ensuring efficient electric car charging and maximising site appeal.

Choosing the Right Charging Solution for Your Site

Different sites and user types benefit from different charging solutions. Choosing the right charging station or charge point is essential for various site types, including retail parks and other public destinations. Here’s what we recommend:

• Level 2 chargers (also known as charging points or charge points) are ideal for locations where vehicles are parked for longer periods, such as retail parks, supermarkets, and hotels.
• Fast and rapid charging stations are best suited for sites where quick turnaround is needed, like motorway services or busy urban areas.
• Public charge points offer convenient, low-cost, or prolonged charging sessions for users who need flexibility.

For Workplaces

• Best Fit: 7.4 kW or 22 kW chargers
• These allow employees to fully charge during a standard workday.
• Mid-range chargers balance cost and performance well.

While many employees may use a home charger for overnight charging, workplace chargers provide added convenience during the workday.

For Businesses with Fleets or Visiting Clients

• Best Fit: 22 kW or 50 kW+ chargers
• Ideal for delivery vehicles or mobile staff needing fast top-ups.
• A fast charger is especially suitable for commercial businesses requiring rapid turnaround for fleet vehicles.
• Enables multiple charges per day per vehicle.

For Public Car Parks and Destinations

• Best Fit: A mix of 7.4 kW and 50 kW chargers. Public or destination chargers in these locations help ensure accessibility for all EV users.
• Offers flexibility for long-stay visitors and short-stay fast-charging users.
• Faster chargers increase turnover and user satisfaction.

Factors That Influence EV Charging Speeds

Several variables can affect how quickly a vehicle charges:

Battery Size

Larger car batteries or EV batteries take longer to fill. The battery level at the start of charging also affects how long it takes, as a lower battery level will require more time to reach full charge.

State of Charge

Charging slows as the battery approaches 80%.

Weather Conditions

Environmental conditions and environmental factors, such as cold weather, can reduce charging speed and battery efficiency. Cold weather in particular slows down recharge rates, reduces range, and can negatively impact battery health.

Vehicle Charging Limitations

Some cars can’t accept high-speed charging due to the car’s battery design and limitations. Battery management systems help regulate charging to preserve battery health and prevent damage.

Charger Output

The charger will only deliver power up to the car’s maximum acceptance rate. Some charging stations with the highest power output, such as 22kW wall chargers, require three phase power, which is uncommon and costly to install in most homes.

Direct Current vs. Alternating Current

Some fast chargers use direct current (DC) for rapid charging, while most home and workplace chargers use alternating current (AC), which the vehicle converts to DC to charge the battery.

Cabling and Connectors

Compatibility and quality of cables can also play a role.

A few factors, including battery management systems and environmental conditions, play a crucial role in determining charging times and preserving battery health.

Calculate Your Return on Investment

Zolb EV offers a simple EV Charger ROI Calculator to help you estimate:

• Potential income from paid charging
• Savings from EV fleet use
• Installation and maintenance costs
• Payback period based on charger type and user traffic
• Increased site usage and revenue by providing convenient charging options for EV owners

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any EV use any charger?

Most modern EVs support Type 2 (AC) and CCS (DC) connectors. Some older models use CHAdeMO. Charging is generally universal, but maximum speed varies.

Should I offer free EV charging at my site?

Some businesses offer free charging as a customer incentive. Compared to home charging, which is typically slower but more cost-effective for overnight use, free public charging provides added convenience for users who need a quick top-up while away from home. Others use pay-per-use systems to cover costs or generate revenue.

How long do EV chargers last?

A well-maintained charger can last 8–10 years. Regular servicing is recommended to maximise uptime and efficiency. How often electric cars charge can influence the wear and tear on charging equipment, as frequent use may lead to faster degradation of components.

Ready to Install EV Chargers at Your Site?

Whether you’re a business owner, property manager, or local authority, Zolb EV can help you deliver a charging solution tailored to your users and goals. By choosing the right charging solutions, you can help drivers get more energy from every charge.

Contact us today for a free site assessment or try our ROI Calculator to see how quickly your EV charging investment could pay off.