Charging your electric vehicle (EV) in public can be a seamless and convenient experience once you know the ropes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about public EV charging, from locating a charging station to understanding payment methods and optimizing your charging sessions.
How to Charge an Electric Car in Public
1. Locate a Charging Station Finding a public charging station is the first step. Use apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare to locate nearby stations. These apps provide real-time information on charger availability, power output, and costs.
2. Check Compatibility Ensure that the charging station is compatible with your vehicle. Common connectors include CCS, CHAdeMO, and Type 2. Some stations may offer multiple connector types, so it’s good to double-check before you start charging.
3. Connect the Car to the Charger Most public charging stations require you to bring your own cable, although some have built-in cables. Connect the cable to your car’s charging port, which is usually located on the side or under the badge at the front.
4. Authenticate and Start the Session To start the charging session, you’ll need to authenticate yourself. This can be done using a keycard, fob, or a dedicated smartphone app. Some stations also allow you to pay directly with a credit or debit card. Once authenticated, the charging process will begin.
5. Monitor the Charging Progress You can monitor the charging progress via your vehicle’s dashboard, the charging station’s display, or a mobile app. Many apps will notify you when your car is fully charged or if there are any issues.
6. End the Charging Session When your EV has reached the desired charge level, end the session by swiping your card or fob again or stopping it through the app. Disconnect the cable and secure it back in place.
How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car at a Public Charger?
Payment Methods Public EV chargers accept multiple payment methods, including:
RFID Cards : Many charging networks provide an RFID card that you tap to start and stop charging.
Mobile Apps : Apps like Electroverse allow you to locate chargers, start a session, and pay seamlessly.
Contactless Bank Cards : Some chargers support direct payment via credit or debit cards.
Plug & Charge : A newer technology where the car handles authentication and billing automatically.
Cost Factors The cost of public EV charging can vary based on the type of charger and the network operator. As of July 2025, the average cost in the UK is 52p per kWh for slow/fast chargers and 76p per kWh for rapid/ultra-rapid chargers. In the U.S., costs can vary, but many networks offer subscription plans that provide unlimited charging at a discounted rate.
Where Can I Charge an EV Car for Free?
Free Charging Locations You can find free EV charging at various locations, including:
Shopping Malls and Retailers : Stores like Macy’s and Whole Foods often offer free charging to customers.
Hotels : Marriott, Hilton, and Radisson provide free charging for guests.
Universities : Institutions such as Santa Clara University have free charging stations.
National Parks : Parks like Yosemite have Rivian-sponsored Waypoint chargers.
Campgrounds : KOA locations across the U.S. offer free or low cost EV charging.
Can I Use Any Public EV Charger?
Compatibility Not all public EV chargers are compatible with every vehicle. Ensure that the charging station’s connector matches your vehicle’s charging port. Some charging networks require membership or specific apps, so it’s good to check the compatibility before you start charging.
Is It Better to Charge to 80% or 100%?
Battery Health Charging your EV to 80% rather than 100% can be beneficial for battery health. Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when they are frequently charged to 100% and then fully discharged. Keeping the battery between 20% and 80% can help maintain its capacity over time.
Charging Speed Charging to 80% is usually faster and more efficient. The last 20% of the charge often takes longer due to safety mechanisms that slow down the charging process.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Charging Experience
Plan Ahead Use apps to plan your route and locate charging stations along the way. This can save you time and reduce anxiety.
Carry Essentials Always carry a backup charging cable and any necessary adapters.
Monitor Your Battery Keep an eye on your vehicle’s battery level and plan your charging stops accordingly.
Stay Informed Keep up with the latest information on charging networks, costs, and promotions to make the most of your EV experience.
Conclusion
Public EV charging is becoming more accessible and convenient. By understanding the costs, locating free charging options, and ensuring compatibility with charging stations, you can make the most of your EV experience. Whether you choose to charge to 80% or 100%, the key is to balance your needs with the best practices for battery health.
