Where to charge an electric car?

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular as more people seek to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. But one of the biggest concerns for new electric car owners is finding a place to charge their vehicle. In this handy guide, we'll explore where you can charge electric cars and provide helpful tips for making the most of your charging experience.

One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to charge your electric car is to install an EV charger station at home. You can install a home EV charger by hiring a professional electrician to install a home charging station, which provides faster charging times compared to plugging in to a standard 3-pin socket. Many electric car manufacturers have deals or offers with home charging solutions, so be sure to check with your vehicle dealer to see what options are available. You can easily recharge your car at home overnight.

Public charging stations.

There are now more public charging stations available than ever before, and many are conveniently located in public areas such as supermarkets, restaurants and services.

To find public charging stations in your area, there are a number of different mapping options including Zap-Map, Google Maps and in-car sat-nav systems. These maps can provide you with information on the location, speed, and live availability of EV charging points along your route.

More and more companies are installing charging stations for employees to use. If you're fortunate enough to work for a company that offers electric car charging stations, take advantage of this opportunity to top up your vehicle in the carpark while you work. Not only is it convenient, but it can also save you money on your electricity bill if your employer covers the cost of charging.

If you're planning a road trip in your electric car, it helps to plan ahead to check the charging options along your route. Finding chargers along your route that are fast and have amenities means you can grab snacks and take bathroom breaks while your car fills up. Google Maps, A Better Routeplanner (ABRP), and Zapmap all offer EV route planners that make finding where you can charge your EV super simple.

If you're in a hurry and need to quickly top up your battery, consider using a rapid charging station. These stations can fully charge your vehicle in as little as 20-30 minutes, making them ideal for longer road trips or when you need to get back on the road quickly. 

In conclusion, finding a place to charge your electric car is easier than ever before, with a wide range of options available including home charging, public charging stations of various speeds, workplace charging, and rapid charging for road trips. By planning ahead and taking advantage of these resources, you can ensure that your electric car is always ready to go when you are.