The speed at which your EV charges depends on many factors, from the type of charger you use to the vehicle’s own capabilities. Understanding how these factors work can help you charge more efficiently and plan your trips better.
There are three main types of charging stations: slow, fast, and rapid.
Slow chargers
The most common of the charging speeds, these chargers typically deliver less than 8 kW of power. Slow chargers are the most common public charging stations and are often found at locations where vehicles are parked for long periods, such as shopping centres or workplaces. In the UK, slow chargers made up about 56.85% of public charging points in 2024. They usually take several hours to charge an EV fully, but they are fine for topping up overnight.
Fast chargers
Fast chargers provide between 8 kW and 50 kW of power. They can still take a couple of hours to fully charge an EV. These chargers are commonly found in more public areas, such as city centres or near highways. There were over 7,400 fast chargers in the UK in 2024. On average, they can add 25 to 50 miles of range to your EV per hour of charging.
Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers
Rapid chargers deliver between 50 kW and 150 kW, while ultra-rapid chargers can go above 150 kW. These stations are the quickest, providing significant charge in a short amount of time. In 2024, there were over 7,000 ultra-rapid chargers in the UK. A 150 kW charger can add up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. As EV technology advances, ultra-rapid chargers up to 350 kW are becoming more common. These can add up to 217 miles of range in only 10 minutes.
What affects my charging speed?
Even though a charger may advertise a high power output, the actual speed at which your EV charges depends on a few key factors.
Onboard charger
Every EV has an onboard charger that determines the maximum charging speed it can handle. So, even if you plug your car into a 150 kW charger, it may only charge at the speed your vehicle can manage. For instance, a car with a 50 kW onboard charger won’t charge any faster than 50 kW, no matter how fast the charger is.
Battery state of charge
Your EV’s battery also impacts charging speed. If your battery is low (below 20%), it will charge much faster than if it’s nearly full. Once the battery hits about 80% capacity, most vehicles slow the charge rate to protect the battery’s health and safety.
Temperature
Cold weather can slow charging speeds. EV batteries are less efficient in low temperatures, and you may see fewer miles added per minute. Colder temperatures also cause some batteries to charge more slowly to prevent damage.
Choosing the right charger for your needs
When deciding where to charge, consider the type of charger and your needs. If you have plenty of time, a slow charger may be fine. If you’re in a rush, a rapid charger will get you back on the road quickly. However, it’s important to remember that not all EVs can use every charger. Make sure your vehicle supports rapid charging before you rely on it during long trips.
Charging speed depends on many variables, from the charger type to your vehicle’s capabilities. By understanding these factors, you can better manage your charging time and ensure you never get stuck with a low battery.
