If you are planning a road trip with your electric car, one of the most important things to consider is how long it will take to charge your vehicle on the go. The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors including the type of charger you use, the size of your car’s battery, and your driving habits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these factors and help you determine how long it will take to charge your electric car while traveling.
The Type of Charger You Use
The speed at which your electric car charges on a road trip depends largely on the type of charger you use. There are three main types of chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging.
- Level 1 Charging: This is the slowest option, but it’s also the most widely available. A Level 1 charger uses a standard household outlet (120 volts) and can add about 4-5 miles of range per hour.
This means that if you have a 60 kWh battery pack, it will take approximately 12-15 hours to fully charge from empty using a Level 1 charger.
- Level 2 Charging: This option is faster than Level 1 charging and uses a higher voltage (usually around 240 volts). A Level 2 charger can add about 25 miles of range per hour and can fully charge most electric cars in around 4-8 hours.
- DC Fast Charging: This is the fastest option available and is typically found at public charging stations along highways and major roads. DC fast chargers can add up to 80% charge in as little as half an hour.
The Size of Your Car’s Battery
The size of your electric car’s battery also plays a role in how long it will take to charge on a road trip. The larger the battery, the longer it will take to charge. For example, a Tesla Model S with a 100 kWh battery pack will take longer to charge than a Nissan Leaf with a 40 kWh battery pack.
Driving Habits
Your driving habits can also affect how long it takes to charge your electric car while traveling. If you’re driving long distances and using up most of your car’s battery before stopping to charge, it will take longer to recharge. On the other hand, if you’re stopping frequently and only charging for short periods of time, you may not need as much time to recharge.
The Bottom Line
So, how long does it take to charge an electric car on a road trip? The answer depends on several factors including the type of charger you use, the size of your car’s battery, and your driving habits.
In general, Level 1 charging is the slowest option and can take up to 15 hours for a full charge, while DC fast charging is the fastest option and can add up to 80% charge in as little as half an hour. However, most electric cars can be fully charged in around 4-8 hours using a Level 2 charger.
Overall, it’s important to plan ahead when traveling with an electric car and research charging options along your route. With proper planning and knowledge about charging options, you can enjoy all the benefits of electric vehicle travel without worrying about running out of power on the road.