How Long Does It Take to Charge an EV?

As more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs), one of the most common questions is: How long does it take to charge an EV? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of charger used, the vehicle’s battery size, and the charging conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down the different charging speeds, best practices, and ways to optimize your EV charging experience.

Understanding EV Charging Speeds

EV charging speeds are categorized into three levels, each offering different charging times:

1. Level 1 Charging (Slow Charging)

Charging speed: ~2–8 km of range per hour
Power output: ~2.3 kW (using a standard 230V household outlet)
Best for: Overnight home charging when driving needs are minimal
Full charge time: 20–40 hours for a typical 50 kWh battery

2. Level 2 Charging (Fast Home & Public Charging)

Charging speed: ~20–100 km of range per hour
Power output: 3.6–22 kW (depending on the charger and vehicle capability)
Best for: Home charging with a dedicated wallbox, workplace, or public stations
Full charge time: 4–10 hours for a typical 50 kWh battery

3. DC Fast Charging (Rapid & Ultra-Fast Public Charging)

Charging speed: ~200–1,200 km of range per hour
Power output: 50–350 kW (public rapid charging stations)
Best for: Long-distance travel, quick top-ups on the road
Full charge time: 15–60 minutes for an 80% charge (varies by battery size and charger power)

Did you know? Charging slows down significantly after 80% to protect battery life. This is why many EV drivers only charge up to 80% on rapid chargers to save time!

What Affects EV Charging Time?

Several factors influence how quickly your EV charges:

Battery Size – Larger batteries take longer to charge. A small 40 kWh battery will charge faster than a 100 kWh battery at the same charging speed.
State of Charge (SOC) – Charging is typically fastest when the battery is nearly empty and slows down as it fills up.
Charging Power Limitations – Even if you plug into a 150 kW charger, your car’s onboard charging limit may cap the speed (e.g., if your car only supports 50 kW charging, it won’t go faster than that).
Temperature – Cold weather can slow down charging significantly. Preconditioning your battery before charging can help improve speed in winter conditions.
Charging Infrastructure – The power output of the charger itself plays a crucial role. Some public stations are limited to lower speeds, while ultra-fast chargers can deliver much higher rates.

Best Practices to Optimize Your EV Charging Time

Want to make the most of your charging sessions? Here are some expert tips:

Charge Overnight at Home: If possible, install a Level 2 home charger to recharge while you sleep, making your EV ready for daily use.
Use Scheduled Charging: Some EVs and smart chargers allow you to schedule charging to take advantage of cheaper nighttime electricity rates.
Plan Fast Charging Stops Wisely: When on a long trip, try to charge when your battery is low and unplug once you reach 80% to avoid slower speeds.
Precondition Your Battery in Cold Weather: If your EV has battery preheating, use it before charging in winter to maintain optimal speeds.
Choose the Right Charging Network: Some public networks offer lower rates or faster speeds—compare options to find the best one for your needs.

How KotiCharge Helps You Charge Smarter

KotiCharge makes EV charging simple, efficient, and cost-effective by offering a variety of smart scheduling options:

Automatic Smart Scheduling: Let KotiCharge optimize your charging based on electricity spot prices, helping you charge when rates are at their lowest. Read more about it HERE.
Midnight Charging Mode: Prefer charging at night? Set your charger to activate during off-peak hours to save money and reduce grid strain. Read more about it HERE.
Custom Scheduling Options: Choose your charging strategy—set a specific ready time (e.g., “Fully charged by 7 AM”) or select a preferred charging duration or energy amount to meet your exact needs. Read more about it HERE.
Real-Time Monitoring & Insights: Track your charging sessions and costs through the KotiCharge app, ensuring complete transparency and control.

By integrating KotiCharge into your EV routine, you can reduce costs, optimize charging efficiency, and ensure your vehicle is always ready when you need it.