As electric vehicles become more common on UK roads, so too does the need for reliable and convenient EV charging stations. With the government’s target of phasing out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the number of EV charging points across the country is set to increase significantly in the coming years.
For those who are new to electric vehicles or have never used an EV charging station, the process may seem daunting. However, it is actually quite simple and straightforward. In this article, we will explain how to use an EV charging station in the UK.
1. Choose the right EV charging station
There are three types of EV charging stations: slow, fast, and rapid. Slow charging stations, which typically deliver 3.6 kW of power, are best suited for overnight charging at home. Fast charging stations, which deliver between 7 kW and 22 kW of power, are more commonly found in public car parks and shopping centres. Rapid charging stations, which can deliver up to 350 kW of power, are the fastest way to charge your EV and are typically found on motorways and major transport routes.
Before heading to a charging station, it’s important to check which type of charging station you need and whether your EV is compatible. Most EVs come with a Type 2 connector for slow and fast charging, while rapid charging stations typically require a CCS or CHAdeMO connector.
2. Check the availability of the charging station
Before setting out to a charging station, it’s always a good idea to check its availability. There are a number of apps and websites that provide real-time information on the availability of charging stations across the country. Some of the most popular ones include Zap-Map, PlugShare, and OpenChargeMap.
3. Connect your EV to the charging station
Once you have found a charging station that is available and compatible with your EV, it’s time to connect your vehicle to the station. This process may vary slightly depending on the type of charging station you are using.
For slow and fast charging stations, simply plug the Type 2 connector into your vehicle. For rapid charging stations, you may need to insert a CCS or CHAdeMO connector into your vehicle.
4. Start the charging process
Once you have connected your EV to the charging station, you will need to start the charging process. This may involve using an app or RFID card to authenticate your payment details.
Some charging stations may also require you to enter your vehicle’s registration number or select the type of charging you require (e.g., slow, fast, or rapid).
5. Monitor the charging process
While your EV is charging, it’s important to monitor the charging process to ensure that everything is working as it should. Most EVs will display the charging status on the dashboard, while some charging stations may also have a display screen showing the charging progress.
If you notice any issues or problems during the charging process, you should contact the charging station operator or customer support for assistance.
6. End the charging process
Once your EV is fully charged, it’s important to end the charging process to avoid being charged for any additional time. With most charging stations, you can simply unplug the Type 2, CCS or CHAdeMO connector from your vehicle to end the charging process.
Some charging stations may also require you to use an app or RFID card to end the charging session.
In conclusion, using an EV charging station in the United Kingdom is a simple and straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your EV is charged efficiently and safely, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of electric driving.
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