This will depend on your energy tariff and on the vehicle you wish to charge, however, it is very simple to calculate.
Cost to charge vehicle (from empty) = Battery Capacity (kWh) x Energy Cost (p/kWh)
As a typical example, a good value overnight energy tariff would be 12p/kWh whilst the battery capacity of a popular EV such as a Tesla Model 3 is 53kWh. This would result in a full charge costing £6.36 (12p/kWh x 53kWh), this car would have a range of 267 miles . This vehicle would also pay no vehicle excise duty and have acceleration comparable to a supercar.
We install 7kW charge points as standard in single phase properties (most domestic dwellings). This would charge a Tesla Model 3 with a 53kWh battery in just over 7 hours, ideal for an overnight charge. In comparison, a standard 13A socket rated at 3kW would take more than double the time. In large properties and commercial buildings, a three-phase supply may be present, this can increase the maximum charge point output to 22kW.
As electric vehicles need to transform the AC electricity supply from your property to DC for use in the vehicle, the maximum speed at which a vehicle can charge is limited by the vehicles’ onboard charging capabilities. For example, a Nissan Leaf has a maximum charging capacity of 6.6kW, therefore increasing to 22kW AC charger would not increase charge speed. However, a Tesla Model X has a maximum charging capacity of 16.5kW, therefore it would be able to charge at maximum speed using a 22kW charging device.
In the UK the standard plug type for electric vehicles is a type 2 connector, these are the most common with all car manufacturers, including Tesla. They are used for both 7kW single phase and 22kW three phase units. Type 1 connectors may be found on some older models.
Tethered or socketed refers to whether the charging cable is permanently wired in to the charging unit or there is simply a socket on the device. Charge points may be available in either tethered-only or socketed-only, or both. When deciding on a suitable charge point you may wish to consider; would you prefer to have a cable kept in your vehicle at all times without danger of leaving it behind? Or would you prefer to have a charge point without a cable draped around it?
As we are not tied to any manufacturer, we can recommend an EV charge point based on the criteria that you require.
We will always offer to come out to look at your property and assess the requirements for an electric vehicle charge point installation at your property. We can discuss and advise on the type of charge point you may require as well as installation and location requirements. We are also happy to look at any other work which you may require, such as additional outdoor sockets or lighting.