Should I charge my EV to 100%?

When an electric vehicle's (EV) battery is between 20-80% it charges at its fastest - this is known as the Charging Curve. While your EV's maximum charging speed can be influenced by factors such as the temperature and make of your car, the fastest charging rates will be within the 20-80% range.

It can take the same amount of time to charge from 20-80% as it can to charge from 80-100% - charging within this range is especially useful on the public network to get back on the road faster.

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Electric cars use lithium-ion batteries - very similar to the kind in smartphones and laptops. These batteries are used because they are lightweight and easy to recharge for long-term use.

As these batteries are charged, depleted, and recharged they age over time and hold less charge. Batteries won't last forever, but aiming for an 80% charge can help them to last longer by preventing strain on the battery (this works for smartphones too!).

Many electric car models (such as Tesla, Hyundai, and Kia) come with settings to limit charging and this can be used both on a home charger overnight and out and about on the public network. Some vehicles even have the option to set separate limits for AC and DC charging. Turning this setting on will stop your car charging when it reaches 80% or any other limit you choose.

There are times when fully charging your car is necessary - such as for long journeys where you are unsure of the range. Charging up to 100% now and then will not damage your battery.

Osprey chargers are at convenient locations across Great Britain, from Land's End to John O'Groats with high-quality amenities offering food and drink to make the most of re-charging time.