How do you charge an electric car?
Electric driving is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Besides being more environmentally friendly, an electric car is also much cheaper to use. But how exactly does charging such a car work? In this blog, you will read all about the charging process and the different options you have to charge your electric car effortlessly.
What are your options for charging your car?
Do you want to charge your electric car? Then you can do so at home or on the road. For many people, charging at home is the easiest and most economical option. On the road, charging stations are increasingly available, but this can be time-consuming and pricey. That is why it is convenient to have your own charging station that is always available when you need it. Still want to charge on the go? Then use an app to find a charging station. Examples include Tap, Plugsurfing and Chargemap. These show in real-time which charging stations are available nearby and which cars can charge there.
Difference between AC and DC charging
You can charge in 2 ways, namely: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). For everyday use, you can charge your car with AC current, which you find at home and public charging stations, for example. This first converts the alternating current into direct current before it reaches the battery. This method is often slower, but ideal for a night-time charging session or if you have the car stationary for a long time.
For a quick charge, such as on the road, DC charging is ideal. This can charge the battery much faster because the power goes directly to the battery without any inversion. However, DC charging can incur higher costs, and due to its intensity, frequent use can cause more wear and tear on the battery in the long run. With DC charging, you must always authorise.
How does charging an electric car work?
Charging an electric car is easy, just follow these steps:
- Connect the charging cable: Park your car at a charging station and make sure the car is switched off before connecting the cable. First plug the cable into the ev charger and then into your car's charging port to start the process correctly. Is it a public charging station that already has a charging cable? Then only remove the cable from the holder and connect it to your car's charging port.
- Start the charging process: Are you charging for business? Then you need to authorise first. Use your charging card to activate charging by holding it against the scanner on the charging station. Once the ev charger has recognised your card, charging starts automatically. Some charging stations also work via an app or QR code. Are you at home? Then you can often just start charging right away (plug & charge).
- Keep an eye on your session: Through your car's dashboard or a linked app, you can track the progress of your charging session. This gives you insight into the current charging speed, the charging time and how much energy has already been recharged. Useful for when you want to know how long you still have to wait.
- Stop charging: Once you have charged sufficiently or your battery is full, stop the charging process by holding the charge card against the charge post again. Remove the cable from the car and from the charging station. Finally, you can close the charging port and store the cable safely.
How long does it take to charge your electric car?
How fast your electric car charges depends on a few factors. The charging capacity of the ev charger and the battery capacity of your car play an important role. In general, the following formula applies:
Maximum battery capacity / charging station capacity = charging time.
Example: 77 kWh battery / 11 kW charging capacity = 7 hours charging time
Want to know more about how long it takes to charge your electric car? Then read that in this blog.
Common problems during charging
Now you know how to charge an electric car. Does the charging station not work or you can't connect? Then here are some common problems and tips to solve them:
- Charging station is not working: sometimes an ev charger cannot function due to a malfunction. Therefore, always make sure you have a plan b. Check in advance whether there is an alternative charging station nearby via an app or Google Maps. This way, you always go on the road prepared and you won't face any surprises. At a charging point, the number of the party managing the charging station is often listed on the pole. They often offer 24/7 support. Can't figure it out? Then call them for help.
- Charging delay due to temperature: in cold weather, the charging speed may slow down. This is because the battery works less well in low temperatures. In that case, try charging in a covered area if possible, or allow for extra charging time. Another reason for slower charging speed is active load balancing. If there is less power, the car will charge more slowly.
- Cable issues: check your charging cables regularly for wear and tear. A damaged cable can disrupt the charging session or even be dangerous. Is your cable stuck in the car? Unlock your car first and see if the cable comes out. You may also need to remove the cable from the charger first and then the car, or vice versa.
EV Chargers from Ratio
Do you always want to have a reliable charging station at home or at work? Then check out Ratio's charging stations. Within these, you can even choose Dynamic Load Balancing or charging your car using your solar panels. Want to know more about the possibilities? Feel free to contact our customer service team, we'll be happy to help!
