With the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK, one of the most common questions among EV owners and prospective buyers is: how much does it cost to fully charge an electric car? The cost of charging an EV depends on various factors, including the battery size, electricity tariff, and charging location. This article explores the costs associated with home, public, and rapid charging, helping EV owners understand their potential expenses.
Several factors determine how much it costs to charge an electric vehicle in the UK:
Charging at home is the cheapest and most convenient way to charge an electric car. The cost depends on the electricity rate per kWh and the battery capacity of the vehicle.
Some energy providers offer EV-friendly tariffs with rates as low as £0.07 per kWh during off-peak hours, significantly reducing costs.
Public charging stations are widely available, but they often cost more than home charging. The price depends on the provider, charging speed, and membership plans.
| Charging Type | Power Output | Cost per kWh | Example Cost (60 kWh EV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Charging | 3-7 kW | £0.30 - £0.45 | £18 - £27 |
| Fast Charging | 7-22 kW | £0.40 - £0.50 | £24 - £30 |
| Rapid Charging | 50-150 kW | £0.60 - £0.85 | £36 - £51 |
| Ultra-Rapid Charging | 150-350 kW | £0.70 - £1.00 | £42 - £60 |
Many providers, such as BP Pulse, Shell Recharge, and Instavolt, offer discounted rates for subscribers. Some supermarkets and shopping centres provide free charging or discounted rates for customers.
Motorway service stations often have rapid (50 kW+) and ultra-rapid (150 kW+) chargers, which allow EVs to charge quickly. However, these are the most expensive charging options.
Rapid chargers are ideal for long trips but are not cost-effective for regular charging.
When compared to petrol or diesel cars, EVs offer significant savings on fuel costs:
| Vehicle Type | Cost per Mile (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Electric Car (Home Charging) | £0.08 – £0.12 per mile |
| Electric Car (Public Charging) | £0.15 – £0.25 per mile |
| Petrol Car | £0.18 – £0.22 per mile |
| Diesel Car | £0.16 – £0.20 per mile |
EV owners who charge at home and use off-peak tariffs save the most money.
The cost to fully charge an electric car in the UK varies depending on the charging location and electricity rates:
To minimize costs, charging at home with off-peak tariffs is the best option. While public charging is convenient, rapid chargers should be used mainly for long journeys due to their higher costs. As EV adoption grows, the UK’s charging infrastructure and energy tariffs will continue to evolve, making electric driving even more cost-effective.
