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Charging an electric car in Australia can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight at home, or as little as 20 to 30 minutes at a public DC fast charger. The cost depends on your electricity rates and the type of charger, but home charging is usually the more cost-effective option.

With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming increasingly popular, many new Aussie owners want to know how long it takes and how much it costs to maintain their EVs. These are also two of the biggest questions when making the switch from petrol to electric.

So, let’s break it down and make EV charging easy to understand.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?

The charging time of an electric car depends mostly on the charger’s power, measured in kilowatts (kW). In Australia, there are three types of charging options: slow, fast, and ultra-fast. The higher the kW, the quicker your EV charges.

1. Level 1 (Slow AC Home Charging)

  • Method: Plug your EV into a standard 240V household power point.
  • Time: Adds about 10 to 20 km of range per hour, taking 5 to 16 hours for a full charge.
  • Best for: Overnight charging or when you have plenty of time.

    2. Level 2 (Fast AC Home Charging)

    • Method: Use a dedicated “wallbox” EV charger at home, work, or a public spot.
    • Time: Adds 30 to 130 km of range per hour, usually taking 2 to 8 hours for a full charge.
    • Best for: Daily top-ups or faster home charging.

      3. Level 3 (Ultra-Fast DC Public Charging)

      • Method: Found at highway stops and major charging hubs.
      • Time: Adds 150 to 300 km of range per hour, with many EVs reaching 80% charge in just 10 to 60 minutes on ultra-fast (150 to 350kW+) chargers.
      • Best for: Quick top-ups when you’re on the go, especially during long drives or busy days. It’s perfect for highway stops or when you need to recharge fast and get back on the road.
      • Note: It’s best used occasionally rather than daily, since frequent fast charging can increase battery wear.

          Time Factors to Consider

          Here are other things that affect your EV charging time:

          • Charging level (home vs public): The type of charger you use makes the biggest difference. Home chargers (AC) are slower, while public fast chargers (DC) deliver much more power for quicker top-ups.
          • Maximum charging speed of your EV: Each EV model has a built-in limit on how fast it can charge. Even if you plug into a high-powered charger, your car will only charge as fast as its system allows.
          • Battery state of charge (slower after 80%): Charging speeds naturally slow down once your battery hits around 80%. It helps protect the battery’s health and extend its lifespan.
          • Battery temperature (extreme heat or cold reduces efficiency): If your battery is too hot or too cold, it won’t charge as efficiently. Most EVs manage temperature automatically, but it can still affect how fast you charge.

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              How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car?

              The cost to charge an electric car depends on where and how you charge. Generally, home charging is the cheapest option, while public fast-charging stations are the most expensive. Your total cost will also depend on your electricity rates, battery size, and charging habits.

              1. Home Charging (Levels 1 and 2)

              Charging at home is often the most affordable and convenient way to power your EV. Your cost per charge depends on your household electricity plan and whether you charge during off-peak hours.

              • Price: Around 25 to 35 cents per kWh, but can drop to 8 cents per kWh with off-peak plans or be free if you use rooftop solar.
              • Example cost for a 60-kWh battery:
                • Off-peak: $5 to $10 for a full charge.
                • Peak rate: $15 to $21 for a full charge.

                2. Public Charging (Level 3)

                Public fast chargers are great for road trips or quick top-ups but cost more per kWh.

                • Price: Varies by provider and speed. AC chargers can be free or up to 30 cents per kWh, while DC fast chargers range from 40 to 80 cents per kWh.
                • Example cost for a 60-kWh battery:
                  • Cheaper network: Around $24 (e.g., 40 cents per kWh).
                  • More expensive network: Around $36 to $48 (e.g., 60 to 80 cents per kWh).

                  3. Free Charging

                  Some networks offer a limited amount of free charging, and certain shopping centres or workplaces provide free access to attract customers.

                  Cost Factors to Consider

                  Several things can influence how much you pay to charge your EV:

                  • Home charging: The most affordable option long-term. You’ll pay your standard household electricity rate, plus the one-time cost of installing a wallbox EV charger.
                  • Public charging: Prices depend on the provider, location, and charger speed. Faster chargers usually cost more.
                  • Time-of-use tariffs: Some energy providers offer off-peak discounts that make overnight charging much cheaper.
                  • Location: City stations can be pricier than regional ones.
                  • Provider and electricity plan: Rates differ between standard, off-peak, and EV-specific plans.
                  • Network memberships: Some programs offer member discounts on charging fees.
                  • Solar charging: If you have rooftop solar, you can charge your car for free during sunny hours using excess energy.

                          Here’s a table comparing the time and cost of different EV charging modes:

                          EV Charging Factor Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
                          Charging Type Slow AC Charging Fast AC Charging (Wallbox) Ultra-Fast DC Charging
                          Power Output (kW) Up to 3.7 kW 7 to 22 kW 50 to 350+ kW
                          Typical Location Home (standard 240V outlet) Home, workplace, some public sites Public highways, shopping centres, major routes
                          Charging Time 5 to 16 hours (full charge) 2 to 8 hours (full charge) 10 to 60 minutes (to 80%)
                          Range Added per Hour 10 to 20 km 30 to 130 km 150 to 300 km
                          Typical Cost (per kWh) 25 to 35¢ (can be lower off-peak) 25 to 35¢ (8¢ off-peak/free with solar) 40 to 80¢
                          Estimated Cost (60-kWh battery) $15 to $21 (or $5 to $10 off-peak) $5 to $21 $24 to $48 (depending on network)
                          Best For Overnight home charging Daily charging or top-ups Long trips or quick top-ups

                           

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                          Smart EV Charging Tips for Aussie Drivers

                          Owning an EV in Australia is simple once you build a few smart habits. Here are some reminders to help you get the most range, savings, and enjoyment from your EV:

                          • Charge overnight using off-peak or EV-specific energy plans to cut costs.
                          • Use public fast chargers mainly for road trips. Home charging is cheaper and better for your battery.
                          • Install a wallbox charger for faster, more efficient charging at home.
                          • Add solar power, if possible, for near “free” charging and long-term savings.
                          • Plan long trips using relevant apps to find nearby stations.
                          • Keep your battery level between 20% and 80% to extend its life and maintain performance.
                          • Avoid charging in extreme heat whenever you can.
                          • Check tire pressure regularly and use regenerative braking to improve efficiency.
                          • Keep your EV software updated for the best range and performance.

                                        Charge Smart and Power Up with Confidence

                                        Charging your electric car can cost anywhere from under $15 at home to over $50 at public fast chargers. It also takes anywhere between 20 minutes and 16 hours, depending on how and where you plug in.

                                        The key takeaway? Home charging is the most affordable, while public chargers get you back on the road quickest. With the proper setup and energy plan, EV charging in Australia is both practical and budget-friendly.

                                        Ready to make charging easier? Call Canny Electrics on 1300 522 446 or visit our EV Charger Installation page.