Buying an electric vehicle is a step towards a luxurious world. They are more convenient and beneficial as compared to gasoline cars. But does mileage matter on an electric car?
Yes, mileage matters on electric cars. The range of an electric car is determined by its battery size, the efficiency of its electric motor, and your driving skills. Mileage is an indicator for a vehicle; a car with a smaller battery will have a shorter range, while a car with a more efficient electric motor will be able to travel further on the same charge. That’s why it’s essential to consider the battery capacity and electric motor efficiency when looking at an electric car’s range.
Are you considering buying an electric car but are concerned about its charging process? This article has got you covered. We will tell you everything you need to know regarding EV charging. So, let’s get started!
Three Charging Levels of Electric Cars
Electric cars are powered by batteries, which need to be recharged periodically. They can be plugged into the electric grid to get charged, and use portable batteries that can recharge at home or public charging stations. Depending on your needs, there are three levels of charging for electric vehicles.
Level 1
It is the slowest and most basic level of electric car charging. Level 1 usually takes place overnight, using a standard 120-volt outlet. It is the cheapest charging level and can be plugged into a simple home outlet. In addition, i can charge about 5 to 8 miles of range per hour when unplugged overnight.
Level 2
This type of charging is faster than Level 1, adding about 60 to 80 miles of range per hour of charge time. Level 2 charging requires a dedicated 240-volt outlet, which can be installed in your home or at a public charging station. This level uses a 240-volt outlet, similar to what is used for electric stoves and clothes dryers. Level 2 charging is faster than Level 1 and can typically be best compared to its speed and convenience.
Level 3
Level 3 charging, also known as “Direct Charger (DC), is the fastest way to charge an electric car. A Level 3 charger can charge a typical electric car battery in about 20 to 30 minutes, adding about 50 to 60 miles of range per hour of charge time. It also requires a particular high-voltage outlet, which is only available at public charging stations.
What Is The Average Time Spent When Charging An Electric Car?
The average time spent when charging an electric depends upon the model of the car and the size of your car’s battery. The table below will give you an idea of the time spent charging an electric car:
| Model | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
| Tesla Model Y | Charges in more than 20 hours | Require up to 1 0 hours | Time required up to 1.25 hours |
| Audi™ e Tron | Charges in 129 hours | Require up to 10 hours | Time required up to 1-hour |
| Volkswagen™ ID.4 | Charges in 50 hours | Require up to 7.5 hours | Time required up to 1.25 hours |
| BMW™ i3 | Charge in more than 13 hours | Requires up to 7 hours of time | Time required up to 45 minutes |
| Tesla Roadster | Charges in 32 hours | Requires up to 3.5 hours | Time required up to 45 minutes |
| Hyundai™ Ioniq Electric | Charges in more than 13 hours | Requires up to 10 hours | Time required up to 1.25 hours |
| Jaguar™ I-Pace | Charges in 30 hours | Requires up to 13 hours | Time required up to 1.5 hours |
| Tesla Model 3 | Charges in 36 hours | Requires up to 8.5 hours | Time required up to 45 minutes |
| Chevrolet™ Bolt EV | Charges in more than 30 hours | Requires up to 10 hours | Time required up to 1.25 hours |
| Kia™ Niro EV | Charges in 60 hours | Requires up to 10 hours | Time required upto 1.25 minutes |
| Tesla Model S | 96 hours to charge | 12 hours are required | 1.3 hours |
| Tesla Model X | Charges in 89 hours | 12 hours | 1.3 hours |
| Ford™ Mustang Mach-E | Charges in 95 hours | 14 hours are required | Time required up to 1.25 hours |
| Porsche™ Taycan | Takes 31 hours to charge | 10 hours are required to charge | 1.5 hours |
| Polestar™ 2 | Charges in 32 hours | 8 hours are required | Time required up to 1.5 hours |
What Is The Average Travel Distance Before Charging?
The average travel distance can vary depending on multiple factors. Here is a table to elaborate on the average distance before charge:
| Make and Model | Approximate Travel Distance Before Charging | MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent) |
| Chevrolet™ Bolt EV | Up to 259 miles | 118 miles |
| Tesla Roadster | Up to 620 miles | 135 miles |
| Jaguar™ I-Pace | Up to 234 miles | 76 miles |
| Tesla Model X | Up to 328 miles | 96 miles |
| Audi e-Tron Sportback | Up to 218 miles | 77 miles |
| BMW™ i3 | Up to 153 miles | 113 miles |
| Ford™ Mustang Mach-E | Up to 300 miles | 100 miles |
| Kia Soul EV | Up to 239 miles | 112 miles |
| Volvo™ XC40 Recharge | Up to 208 miles | 79 miles |
| Tesla Model S | Up to 373 miles | 111 miles |
How To Calculate Cost To Charge Of An Electric Vehicle?
The cost of charging an electric car will depend on a few factors. The type of electric car, the battery size, and the electricity rate. Electric motors typically have either a standard or fast charger. A standard charger will take longer to charge the battery but will cost less per kilowatt-hour (kWh). While, a fast charger will charge the battery quicker but will cost more per kWh.
The formula required to calculate the cost of charging an EV is:
Required electricity (kWh) x Cost of electricity (cents/kWh) = Cost to charge.
For example, if your power costs $0.13 per kWh and Your electric car consumes up to 33 kWh for every 100 miles traveled, then setting your vehicle with a totally drained 66 kWh battery that can drive 200 miles should cost roughly $9.00.
Check Out How Much Does It Cost To Charge An Electric Car: EV Charging Explained:
Home Charging Station
The cost of charging an electric car from a home charging station is based on the vehicle’s energy efficiency and the cost of power, which depends on the location where you charge. Charging an EV at home is significantly less expensive than filling a gas-powered car or diesel car.
At Public Charging Station
When charging your electric vehicle at a public charging station, you may be charged based on the cost of power or the length of time you are tethered to the station. Some charge stations are free to charge your vehicle; in such circumstances, you will not be charged at all.
Overall, electric cars are an excellent option for people who are looking for an electric car to find out the cost of charging for your particular electric car. Electric cars can save money on fuel and maintenance costs, making them an excellent option for your transportation needs.
Can You Charge At Home?
Yes, you can charge electric cars at home, it is easy once you’ve got a home charger installed. You just need to park your car in the right spot, plug it in, and let it charge overnight. There are a few things you have to know first.
- The first thing you need is electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). It is the device that will actually charge your car.
- Once you have your EVSE, you’ll need to choose the right location for it. It should be close to an outlet and away from potential water hazards.
- After picking a spot, just plug it in the charger, and that’s all!
There are two different types of chargers available for home charging: Level 1 and Level 2
Level 1 Chargers
They are the slowest but most affordable and can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet. Most electric car owners charge their cars overnight, and a level 1 charger is the best choice. The installation cost of a Level 1 charger is between $379-$495.
Level 2 Charger
Level 2 chargers are faster and more expensive but can be plugged into a standard 240-volt outlet. It is the best choice for those who want to charge their car fast in the convenience of their home. Most electric cars come with a Level 1 charger, but if you plan to drive a lot, you can upgrade to a Level 2 charger.
Should You Charge Your Electric Car Every Night?
Like most electric car owners, you probably charge your car every night. After all, it’s the best way to ensure that you have a full battery life for your daily commute. However, it is not necessary to charge your electric car every night. Charging your electric card depends on a few factors, including how often you drive, the size of the battery, and how much range you need.
If you only use your electric car for short trips around the town, you don’t need to plug in your vehicle every night. However, you’ll probably want to charge it every night if you have a long commute or frequently take road trips. The average overnight charging of some EV batteries is up to 8 to 10 hours.
Charging overnight has advantages and disadvantages as well.
Pros
- You’ll never be stranded with a dead battery in the morning.
- It’s more convenient than waiting for a public charger.
- You can take advantage of cheaper off-peak electricity rates.
- You don’t have to spend money on public charging stations.
Cons
- You could end up damaging the battery and shortening its lifespan by overcharging it.
- If you live in an area with high electricity rates, you might have a high electric bill.
- Regular charging shortens the lifespan of the EV battery.
Tips To Avoid Being Stuck Without A Charge
If you own an electric car, there’s a chance you’ve been stranded without a charge. Here are some tips to avoid being stuck in this situation:
- Always keep your car plugged in when you’re not using it. It will ensure that your battery is always charged.
- Make sure you have a backup plan if you get stranded. It could include keeping a spare charger in your car or having a friend with a traditional gas-powered vehicle who can give you a jump start.
- Plan your route and make sure you know where charging stations are located.
- Keep your car’s battery charged as much as possible. Avoid letting it drop below 50%.
- If you’re driving for an extended time, bring a portable charger.
- It is recommended to keep your battery temperature below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
FAQs
Do hybrid cars have to be charged?
The answer to this question depends on the type of hybrid car you have. You will not need to charge the battery if you have a hybrid car with a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Most hybrids have are generative braking system; when you brake, the kinetic energy is used to recharge the battery.
So, you could drive your hybrid without ever plugging it in, and the battery would slowly recharge itself. However, you can charge it at home with a standard 110 to 120-volt outlet. In short, you don’t have to charge hybrid cars, but it’s generally a good idea if you can. It will help extend the life of your battery and may improve fuel economy.
How often should you charge a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including how often you drive, the size of your car’s battery, and your daily driving habits. If you have a long commute or do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you may need to charge more frequently than someone with a shorter commute or who mostly drives on the highway.
For example, the Chevy Volt can drive around 40 miles per charge. It is advised to charge the car at night so that it can finish charging at off-peak times on the electric grid. If the internal combustion engine is used to replenish the depleted battery, the Chevy Volt might travel up to 300 miles per charge. As a result, it is possible to travel for extended periods without charging the automobile.
Should I charge an eV to 100?
The simple answer is no; you don’t need to charge your EV 100%. Charging to 100% can reduce your battery’s overall lifespan. The battery is an electrochemical device whose degradation is accelerated at higher temperatures, regular use, and higher voltages.
So, by charging 100%, you are subjecting your battery to high voltage and high-temperature stressors.
It can lead to “capacity fade,” where the battery slowly loses its ability to hold a charge over time. By charging to 100%, you are accelerating this process and potentially reducing your battery’s overall lifespan. It’s best to keep your battery between 30-80% charged. It will help extend the life of your battery and keep it performing at its best.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car completely?
The answer mainly depends on a few factors, including the model of your electric car, the type of charger you’re using, and the electricity rates in your area.
Generally speaking, it will cost around $40 to charge an electric car completely. However, the cost can be higher if you use a fast charger. And if you live in an area with high electricity rates, the cost will also be higher.
Should I charge an electric car every night?
There is no definitive answer, as it depends on several factors. If you have a home charger, you may want to charge your car at night, so you don’t have to worry about finding a public charger during the day.
But it is necessary to maintain your charge between 20%-80% for better mileage. Electric cars are designed to travel a large distance with a single charge; regular charging can affect their efficiency. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide when to charge your electric car based on your unique circumstances.
Final Considerations
If you’re interested in purchasing an electric car, it is important to consider its mileage as it plays a significant role in its efficiency. Charging of electric cars is done by Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 chargers. Level 1 and Level 2 allow you to charge your car in the comfort of your home.
However, it is essential to do your research and understand all the different options available to you. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so find the charger that best meets your needs. With a little planning, you can easily take advantage of an electric vehicle.
