Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as more environmentally conscious consumers look for alternatives to gas-powered cars. However, some prospective EV buyers have concerns about the charging time required to keep an electric car powered up. In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of EV charging times so readers in the Fort Worth and Dallas areas can make informed decisions about purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
EV charging times depend on several factors, including:
- Battery size – The larger the battery capacity, the longer it will take to recharge fully. For example, a Tesla Model S 100D has a 100 kWh battery pack which could take over 12 hours to charge from empty to full on a Level 1 charger. A Nissan Leaf with a 30 kWh battery may only take 4 hours to fully charge from empty.
- Charging station power – Level 1 provides 120V AC power and adds about 4-5 miles of range per hour charged. Level 2 offers 240V AC and provides 10-20 miles per charging hour. DC fast charging can add 60-200 miles of range in just 20-30 minutes.
- Charger type – Charging stations are classified by their power delivery levels. Level 1 is lower power from a typical household outlet. Level 2 stations require installation of a 240V outlet. DC fast chargers require special high-powered equipment.
- Battery temperature – Colder battery temperatures slow down the chemical reactions and charging speed. It’s ideal to precondition the battery while plugged in so it warms up before fast charging.
- State of charge – Charging times are not linear. It takes progressively longer to add each percent of charge the closer the battery gets to being fully charged. Charging from empty to 80% capacity is much faster than charging from 80% to 100%.
To put it in real world terms, here are some estimates for charging times from empty based on charger type for a typical EV with a 60 kWh battery pack:
Clearly, a Level 1 charger is not practical for daily charging. But it can be useful in a pinch or for maintenance charging. Level 2 units are best for overnight charging at home. And DC fast chargers along travel routes allow for quick pit stops to add driving range during longer trips.
Charging Considerations for Fort Worth and Dallas Drivers
For EV owners in the sprawling DFW metro area, the key is having access to convenient overnight Level 2 charging at home as the primary charging solution. This allows daily commutes and around-town driving to be powered up while the vehicle is parked.
Public charging stations are also becoming more common locally. There are over 800 public charging ports listed just within the city limits of Fort Worth and Dallas, with many more in the surrounding communities. Major retailers like Target and Walmart are adding charging banks to select locations as well.
These public stations provide supplemental charging for EV drivers in the region. Finding a Level 2 station while running errands or shopping can add hours of drive time. For longer trips between Fort Worth and Dallas or other Texas cities, planning routes around DC fast charging stations is recommended. 30-45 minutes spent charging can quickly add hundreds of miles of range when needed.
Apps like PlugShare provide maps of public charging stations and real-time availability updates from other EV drivers. This makes it easy to locate charging options while out and about. Some networks like Electrify America also have route planning tools to map out charging stops for road trips.
EV home charging solutions should also be considered. Having a Level 2 station installed in your garage or carport is ideal, allowing you to conveniently recharge each night. Some apartment buildings and employers are also adding EV charging infrastructure for residents and employees.
McBride Electric offers Level 2 charger installation and maintenance services in the DFW area. Their qualified electricians can assess your electrical panel’s capacity, pull necessary permits, install the equipment, and get your home ready for EV charging. They also service and repair public charging stations for businesses interested in adding this capability for customers.
Key Takeaways on EV Charging Times
To summarize the key points for EV owners and shoppers in Fort Worth and Dallas:
- Plan on overnight charging at home as your primary fueling method. Level 2 chargers will fully recharge an empty battery within 10-12 hours.
- Use public charging stations as a supplemental fueling option when running errands around town. Apps like PlugShare help locate chargers nearby.
- DC fast chargers along major highways allow for quick charging pit stops when driving longer distances.
- Charging times vary based on battery size, charger power, temperature, and current state of charge. Manage these factors for optimal charging efficiency.
- Work with a certified electrician to install a Level 2 charger at home for safe, reliable, and quick overnight charging.
As you can see, there are many factors that determine how long it takes to charge an electric vehicle. The type of charger, battery size, charge level, and even outside temperature all play a role. To get a better understanding of how long it will take to charge your EV, contact the experts at McBride Electric.
Our team can assess your individual charging needs and help you choose the right equipment and installation plan. We serve both the Fort Worth and Dallas areas. Call us at 817-858-0255 if you’re located in Fort Worth or 972-733-1199 if you’re in Dallas. We’ll provide a fast, free estimate to get your EV charging solution up and running. Don’t wait to electrify your driving, contact us today