[ad_1]
It’s possible to use the factory-supplied three-pin plug charger when refilling your EV’s cells, but charging times are lengthy and most manufacturers claim this device is for emergency use only.
Either way, if you’re committed to EV ownership and you have access to a driveway or garage, it’s always best to use a dedicated wall-mounted unit, which can charge at up to 7kW, more than twice as fast as the three-pin alternative.
There are a number of different manufacturers to choose from, plus a choice of tethered (with a charging cable permanently attached) or untethered (allowing you to choose different sockets and cables for different cars) layouts.
Regardless of which one makes most sense for your EV, you will need a qualified electrician to check your household wiring is up to the task and then to install the box.
Prices vary, but you can expect to pay £500-£1000 for a home charger.
If you live in Scotland, bear in mind that the authorities there offer a £400 grant toward the cost of installing a charger.
Also keep in mind that if you’re a home owner in a single-unit property and still haven’t bought your EV, a number of manufacturers are still offering a free wallbox and installation when you buy one of their electric models.
How much will it cost at a public charging station?
This is dependent on where you charge and what car you have because there are numerous options when it comes to public charging stations. There are four types of public chargers; slow, fast, rapid and ultra-rapid.
According to the AA, on average a Vauxhall Corsa Electric will cost £19.20 to charge from 0-80% on a slow charger, £22 via a fast one, £27.60 on a rapid and £28.40 for an ultra rapid.
If you only need to charge when out and about infrequently, then a pay-as-you-go method is possible. It generally costs between 20p and £1 per kWh, with DC rapid chargers, the type you’d find at a motorway service station, sitting at the higher end of the spectrum.
