As the number of electric cars on the roads of the United Kingdom continues to rise, it is essential to have a solid understanding of how to properly utilize electric car charging stations. In the eyes of many people who have just purchased electric vehicles, these charging stations are more than just a location to get petrol; rather, they are symbols of a shift to a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.
Nevertheless, as a consequence of this modification, you must adhere to certain best practices. If you want to learn how to make the most of EV charging stations, avoid damaging the network, and ensure that your electric vehicle’s battery lasts as long as feasible, read this article.
Understanding the numerous charging alternatives and correctly operating electric vehicle charging stations is vital. ElectrAssure, an EV charging company, compiled this helpful guide.
8 Things To Know About Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles
Establishing charging stations for electric cars enhances the convenience and appeal of these vehicles. Many types are accessible, each of which may fulfill a different set of criteria. For your convenience, we have prepared the following information in order to assist you in navigating the United Kingdom in search of a charging station:
1. Slow charging stations.
There are slow charging stations with ratings of up to 3 kW, which makes them ideal for use while sleeping at home. Slow charging is the most cost-effective method of lengthening the battery’s lifetime and also puts the least strain on the battery. A slow charger is great for overnight charging since it takes around six to twelve hours to completely charge a car with this kind of charger.
Four to six hours is the amount of time it takes for charging stations with speeds ranging from 7kW to 22kW to completely charge an electric car. Locations such as shopping centers, businesses, and parking lots are typical examples of public spaces that include them. A fast charger is a nice middle ground between slow chargers and quick chargers because it offers a balance between the pace at which the battery is charged and its health.
2. Rapid Charging Stations
The fastest charging stations, with ratings of more than forty-three kilowatts, can boost the power of most electric cars to eighty percent in thirty to sixty minutes. These are ideal for long-distance travel and may often be found at highway service stations. However, it is not a good idea to depend only on fast chargers since frequent usage might cause the battery to degrade more quickly.
3. The Process of Finding Charge Locations
There is a growing number of charging stations in the United Kingdom, making locating one simpler. In order to assist you in locating AC and DC charging facilities. There are a number of applications and websites that provide detailed maps and consumer feedback. The following is a list of some of the most helpful tools:
4. Charging Stations Map Sites
Zap-to-Map
Across the United Kingdom, Zap-Map offers a comprehensive map of charging stations, along with information on the many types of chargers that are available, their current state, and feedback from customers. When you are planning longer excursions and want to make sure that you are constantly aware of where the next charging station is located, this app is an excellent tool.
PlugShare
PlugShare provides a worldwide map of electric vehicle charging stations, along with user evaluations and photographs. It allows customers to filter results depending on the kind of charger and facilities available, such as eateries or bathrooms located nearby. This application is very helpful for locating charging outlets in places that are new to the user.
The ChargeMap
ChargeMap offers a comprehensive map of charging stations throughout Europe, including in the United Kingdom. Additionally, it provides information in real-time on charging station availability, which makes it much simpler to locate a space that is accessible when you want it.
5. Utilisation of Charging Stations: The Essentials
When using charging stations for electric vehicles, it is imperative that you show consideration for other users and adhere to all appropriate safety measures. It is essential to keep in mind the following:
Charge in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer
Always consult the documentation that came with your car for particular charging requirements to guarantee the best possible battery health and safety.
As a matter of good manners, after your vehicle has been charged, please disconnect it and move it to a new location. This will allow additional electric vehicle owners to use the charging station.
Use the Appropriate Plug and Make Sure the Connection Is Tight
Please make sure that you are using the correct connector and that it is connected securely. If the connection is not secure, it may result in inefficient charging and significant dangers.
Keep track of your charging progress
It is important to keep a close eye on your charge progress and keep the charging surface clean. This ensures safety and eliminates any needless delays that may occur for other users.
6. Mistakes To Avoid When Using Charging Stations
Avoid making these typical mistakes if you want to have a more positive experience while charging.
Avoid Charging During Peak Periods
To lessen the burden on the grid, avoid charging during periods of high demand. The peak hours might vary, but generally, the busiest times are in the early evenings, when people return from work.
Ensure that charging stations are not obstructed
Electric cars should not cause obstructions at charging stations. After your vehicle has been completely charged, you should always relocate it to create room for other vehicles.
Do not leave your car parked at a public station for extended periods of time. This behavior is considered to be prolonged parking, and it is of utmost significance in places with a constant traffic flow.
If you discover charging equipment that is not functioning properly, please refrain from using it and immediately inform the relevant authorities. This move will improve the functionality and safety of all users.
In every circumstance, the safety of charging stations must be maintained. Some important factors to consider
Ensure that all charging stations, whether public or private, are in excellent working condition by performing routine maintenance on them. Routine maintenance inspections may assist in identifying and resolving faults before they escalate into more serious difficulties.
Exercise Caution When Handling Charging Equipment
It is important to use caution and be vigilant during the charging process. Damaged equipment might be dangerous.
Optimal Configurations for Charging
The electric vehicle manufacturer will advise the right settings to ensure optimum charging and preserve the battery’s life.
Safeguards for the Weather
Charging should be undertaken with great care when extreme weather is present. If you want to avoid electric shocks or damage to your equipment, you should avoid using charging stations when there is severe rain or storms.
Smart technology and ultra-fast charging are two examples of technologies that will boost charging capabilities. These developments will make charging quicker and more efficient, resulting in shorter station wait times.
Extending the countrywide charging network will make stations more accessible. This expansion will take place soon, which is necessary due to the increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road.
7. Government Policies
Government policies will help in the transition to electric vehicles. Incentives for electric vehicle owners and improvements in charging infrastructure are expected to further drive the adoption of electric cars.
8. Responsible Charging Practices Are Important
It is impossible to overstate the value of demonstrating courtesy at charging stations, particularly given that the United Kingdom continues moving towards electric cars. By adhering to our guidelines, owners of electric vehicles may enhance their experience and contribute to the development of a more environmentally friendly and efficient transportation system.
In Summary
With a little planning and following best practices, using public EV charging stations can be a convenient and stress-free experience that allows electric vehicle owners to travel longer distances confidently. Responsible electrical owners can now help work toward the future of electric mobility development.
What charges you need depends on numerous things. What cars will you charge? How long will automobiles ‘dwell’ and charge throughout the day? How many miles will automobiles drive daily? One or more 50kW+ DC Rapid Chargers are needed for larger daily distances and shorter dwell times. 7-22kW AC Fast Chargers can accommodate longer dwell durations, such as overnight or working hours, and shorter daily trips. We advise against using the lowest chargers if your company relies on them. A reliable mid-range or premium charger from a reputable manufacturer will pay for itself in an operating fleet. That is dependent upon several circumstances. What is the number of cars that need charging? How much charging is required for them? Will the charges occur during the working day, over night, or both? The closest feasible position to the electricity supply is the one with the lowest installation expenses. However, access for drivers or vehicles may make this impractical. The charging bays need to have the right size if commercial vehicles are going to be charged.Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chargers are needed?
How many chargers do I need?
Where should I install the chargers?
Reference:
Nature.com: Strategies and sustainability in fast charging station deployment for electric vehicles
Financial Times: How to crack the economics of EV charging
Business Insider: Google is trying to solve one of Americans’ top concerns about having an EV
The Verge: Google Maps will use AI to help you find out-of-the-way EV chargers
