How to Use a Public EV Charger
For many drivers new to electric vehicle charging, using a public charger can seem unfamiliar at first. How do you find chargers, are they compatible with your EV, how much do they cost. Just some of the questions you might have when you start driving an EV.
Understanding how to begin a charging session, select the correct charging cable, and estimate how long it takes to charge helps remove uncertainty when visiting public EV charging stations.
This guide explains the typical process of charging an electric car at a public charge point and how charging speeds vary between your home AC charger and rapid chargers.
What is a Public EV Charger
Public chargers are EV chargers, usually found in high traffic areas such as car parks, motorway services, fuel stations and hospitality settings. They are much like petrol pumps in that you pull up use what you need and pay for the electricity (fuel) you use. But unlike fuel pumps, EV chargers come in different makes, speeds and are maintained by different companies or charge point network operators, like BP pulse, Shell Recharge or Osprey.
Most public chargers are compatible with most EVs so you can usually pull up and use whichever charger is free.
Finding a Public Charging Station
Public EV charging stations are widely available across retail locations, service stations, workplaces, and car parks. Navigation apps like Zap Map and onboard navigation maps can help when you are searching for a suitable electric car charging point before arrival.
When selecting a public charger, consider:
- Connector compatibility with your charging port
- Availability of chargers at the stop point
- Availability of a cable attached or need to supply your own charging cable
- Charging speed offered
- Payment requirements
Understanding which charging points operated by different networks support your vehicle, ensures smoother electric vehicle charging experiences.
Understanding Charger Types and Cables
Different charger types influence how electric vehicle charging works.
AC Charging
AC charging points typically untethered and require your own charging cable. They deliver slower speeds suited to longer stays, and are also known as destination chargers.
DC Rapid Chargers
Rapid chargers are faster public charger options where the cable attached is usually integrated into the unit, or tethered. These deliver higher power output and shorter session durations, but are usually more expensive.
Knowing the difference helps drivers prepare when charging an electric car away from home charging setups.
Step-by-Step: Using a Public Charger
While interfaces vary slightly between providers, the process of using an EV charge point is broadly similar:
- Park and access the charging port on the vehicle
- Connect the charging cable or cable attached to the charge
- Authenticate using app, card, or payment method
- Start the charging session
- Monitor progress until desired charge level – a great time to take a rest break, catch up on emails or refuel yourself!
- End session and disconnect, and be on your way
Following on-screen and app instructions ensures safe and efficient charging an electric car process. Apps usually require a payment top up to be made for you to be able to use the charger, but you can also use RFID payments and now use your card as a payment at the charger itself.
How Long Charging Takes
How long it takes to charge depends on multiple factors:
- Charger output level
- Battery state
- Vehicle acceptance rate
- Type of charging method used
AC charging may take several hours to top your car up to your desires level, while rapid chargers can provide substantial charge in shorter timeframes. Understanding how long it takes to charge helps so that you can plan journeys effectively and hit your destination in your target time.
Comparing Public Charging With Home Charging
Public charging complements home charging but serves different purposes.
|
Charging Location |
Key Benefits |
|
Public Charging |
Convenient when travelling Access to rapid chargers Widely distributed infrastructure |
|
Home Charging |
Predictable routine charging Dedicated home charger Overnight convenience |
Many drivers combine both approaches, using a home EV charger for daily use and public EV charging stations for longer journeys.
Speak to Pro EV About Home Charging Options
While public charger networks provide flexibility and peace of mind when travelling, having a home EV charger installed at home simplifies your everyday electric vehicle charging. A professionally installed EV charging point provides consistent home charging routines and reduces reliance on public charging infrastructure which can often be costly and unreliable if chargers are not available when you need them.
Pro EV supports drivers through:
- Home charger selection
- Installation planning
- Property suitability assessments
- Long-term charging optimisation
Our team can guide you through the next steps, if you want to start home charging.
Still have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a charging session?
A charging session refers to the period between connecting your vehicle to an electric car charging point and stopping the energy transfer. It includes authentication, energy delivery, and disconnection.
Do I need my own charging cable?
Some AC charging points require your own charging cable, while many rapid chargers have a cable attached to the unit.
How long it takes to charge an electric vehicle?
How long it takes to charge depends on charger speed, battery capacity, and state of charge. Rapid chargers shorten session duration compared with AC charging.
Are public chargers different from home chargers?
Yes, public EV charging stations offer a mix of speeds and payment methods, while home charging provides routine convenience through installed home chargers.
Can I rely entirely on public charging?
It is possible, but many drivers find combining public charging with a home EV charger provides the best balance of convenience and flexibility.
