Electric Vehicle (EV) owners are reaping the benefits of cost-effective home charging, according to an expert guide. The way an EV charges is just as crucial as its performance on the road, with different charging speeds and costs to consider, especially when charging at home.
In comparison to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, electric cars can prove to be significantly cheaper to operate. Some EVs can be charged rapidly, reaching 80 percent battery capacity in under 20 minutes with a powerful charger. While home charging may be slower, the expenses are notably lower, providing a convenient and economical solution for EV owners.
A notable advantage of EVs is the convenience of waking up to a fully charged battery each morning by simply plugging in the car overnight. Furthermore, drivers can pre-set the car to adjust its interior temperature, ensuring a comfortable ride from the get-go.
The speed at which an EV charges largely depends on the charging method and the vehicle’s maximum charge rate. While fast-charging EVs can top up their battery quickly on public chargers, home charging may take longer. Mid-market electric cars typically have a maximum charge rate ranging from 100 kW to 200 kW, meaning a moderate charging time of 20 to 40 minutes to reach 80 percent battery capacity.
Despite public chargers costing around £0.60 to £0.90 per kWh, making them more expensive than home charging, affordable alternatives exist for overnight charging such as lamp post chargers costing as low as £0.40 per kWh. For example, using the E.ON Drive Next tariff, charging an EV at home can cost as little as £2 for 100 miles of range, significantly cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel.
When contemplating the installation of a home EV charger, there are various models available at different price points. For instance, E.ON Next offers home chargers with a power output of 7.4 kW ranging from £979 to £1,079, catering to various preferences and requirements. While home chargers are generally slower than public chargers, their affordability and convenience make them an attractive option for EV owners.
In conclusion, the affordability and convenience of home charging make it an appealing option for EV owners looking to minimise their running costs while ensuring their vehicle is always ready for the road. As the market for EVs continues to grow, the competition among charging networks is expected to drive prices down, making electric motoring even more accessible to the masses.