How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?

Many Manchester and Lowell, MA drivers are thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle, and it’s easy to see why. EVs offer numerous environmental benefits, and they are easier to maintain. If you have been thinking about becoming an EV owner, you may be wondering about electric car charging time. How long does it take to charge an electric car? The answer will vary based on a few factors. 

There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Different EVs have different battery packs with varying charging times. There are also different charging methods — domestic charging, rapid domestic charging, and public charging. Your choice will affect your electric car charging time. Let’s take a closer look at your options below to help you get a better idea of what you can expect when you make the switch. 

Electric Car Charging Options

1. Domestic Outlet Home Charging (Regular Outlet): This is one of the easiest options for charging your electric vehicle in Westford because all you need isa normal grounded (three-prong) 110V/120V charging outlet (Level 1 Charging). While this option is certainly not the quickest out there, it is still a great choice if you are looking to top off some of the charge you used after commuting locally. How long does it take to charge an electric car with a Level 1 charger? You can expect a full charge in approximately 24 hours. 
2. Installed Brand-Approved Domestic Charging: You can also have a Level 2 Charging station installed by a professional if you want to charge your vehicle more rapidly at home. Level 2 charging uses rapid (usually 240V+) chargers. DC fast chargers (as opposed to AC ones) are also common. With this option it’s possible to obtain an 80% charge in a half an hour or forty minutes. 
3. Public Charging: Charging on-the-go is also an option, as public stations are popping up all over Nashua and the surrounding areas. These charging stations vary in type and speed. 

Note: If you drive a plug-in hybrid in Manchester, your charging times could be much less (Approximately 1-4 hours to fully charge) This is because PHEVs do not rely solely on electricity as an energy source. 

Electric Car Charging Time for Public Chargers

Public charging stations offer 22 kW charging, 43-50 kW rapid charging, and 150 kW rapid charging. With this option, it could take as little as an hour to fully charge your EV. Comparatively, most home chargers offer 3.7 kW or 7 kW charging. 

Find the EV of Your Dreams at Tulley BMW of Nashua

If you are ready to become an EV owner, you will find an excellent selection of EVs and PHEVs right here at Tulley BMW of Nashua. Contact us for more information or visit our showroom to see your options up close.