Public EV charging - How Does It Work?
In today's world, electric vehicles (EVs) have become more than just a futuristic concept; they're now a reality on our roads. As EV adoption continues to grow, one of the crucial elements of this transition is the availability of public EV charging stations.
In this blog, we'll dive into the world of public charging stations for EVs and answer the question, "How does it work?".
The Rise of Public EV Charging Stations
Gone are the days when EV owners had to rely solely on charging their vehicles at home. Public charging stations for EVs have proliferated in recent years, making it convenient for EV owners to charge their vehicles while on the go. These public charging points are strategically located in various places like shopping centers, car parks, and motorways, ensuring that EV owners have access to charging wherever they need it.
Understanding the Basics
Before we delve into the intricacies of public EV charging, let's start with the basics. Public EV charging stations are essentially the fueling stations for electric vehicles. They provide the electricity needed to charge an EV's battery and keep it running. Much like a traditional petrol pump, you plug your EV into a charging station, and it dispenses the energy required to power your vehicle.
Public Charging Point Network
To create a reliable and accessible network of public charging stations, organisations and companies have developed extensive charging point networks. These networks connect charging stations across cities, regions, and even countries, ensuring that EV owners can find charging points conveniently.
A quick search for "public charging stations near me" on your smartphone will likely result in a list of available options, thanks to these networks.
How to Use Public EV Charging Stations
Using public EV charging stations is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Find a Charging Station: As mentioned earlier, you can use smartphone apps or websites to locate nearby public charging stations. You can also find them on navigation systems in some EVs.
2. Plug-In: Once you've located a charging station, pull up to the station and park your EV in the designated spot. Most charging stations have multiple connectors, so choose the one that matches your vehicle.
3. Payment: Public charging stations usually require payment. Some use RFID cards, while others accept credit cards. Simply follow the payment instructions provided at the station.
4. Charging: After payment, plug the charging connector into your EV. The station will begin providing power to your vehicle. Many stations display the charging status on a screen, so you can monitor progress.
5. Wait: Depending on your vehicle's battery capacity and the charging station's power output, the charging process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. Use this time to relax, shop, or grab a coffee nearby.
6. Complete Charging: When your EV is sufficiently charged or you're ready to leave, return to your vehicle, unplug it, and store the connector back in its place.
How Do Public EV Charging Stations Work?
Public EV charging stations operate on a few key principles:
Electricity Supply: These stations are connected to the electrical grid, ensuring a steady supply of electricity. Some charging stations may even use renewable energy sources like solar power to provide clean energy to EVs.
Charging Levels: Public charging stations typically offer different charging levels, categorised as Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging. Also known as slow, fast and rapid. The level you choose depends on your vehicle's compatibility and your time constraints.
Communication: Most modern EVs and charging stations are equipped with communication protocols like RFID or mobile apps, enabling seamless authentication, payment processing, and monitoring of charging sessions.
Who Operates the Public EV Charge Points?
There are a wide range of operators in the UK, with arguably the Tesla Superchargers network being the most well-known.
Other operators include:
MFG EV Power
InstaVolt Ltd
Gridserve .
Pod Point
The GeniePoint Network
Ionity
ChargePlace (Scotland)
Apps to Help You On Your Journey
There are a whole host of apps available to help you on your journey that tell you information such as price, availability and reliability. Here are some we recommend:
ZapMap
Monta
ChargePoint
Octopus Electroverse
PlugShare
bp pulse
How Much Does It Cost To Charge An Electric Car?
Charging costs can vary hugely depending on where you charge your car, i.e. at home or on a public network and when. Check out this interactive charging calculator from GoCompare.com to see how much it will cost to charge our electric vehicle.
Public EV Charging - A Convenient Choice
Public EV charging stations play a vital role in encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles. They offer convenience, flexibility, and accessibility, making it easier than ever for EV owners to charge their vehicles while out and about.
So, the next time you wonder, "How do public EV charging stations work?" remember that they are the backbone of the electric vehicle revolution, providing the power needed to keep these eco-friendly vehicles on the road.
With the growing network of public charging stations and their ease of use, charging your electric vehicle in public is becoming as routine as filling up a petrol tank.
As the demand for EVs continues to rise, we can expect even more advancements in public charging infrastructure, making it an even more convenient and sustainable choice for all.
So, whether you're new to electric vehicles or a seasoned EV owner, you can confidently navigate the world of public charging stations and enjoy the benefits of cleaner and more sustainable transportation.