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How long it takes to charge an electric car depending on the charger type
One of the most common questions when thinking about switching to electric mobility is how long an electric car takes to charge. And the answer is simple: it depends, above all, on the type of charger you use.
Charging your car from a domestic plug socket is not the same as using a wallbox or a rapid charge point. Depending on the available power, the charging time can vary from 15 or 20 minutes to over 20 hours.
In addition to the charger, other factors also play a role, such as the battery capacity, the starting charge percentage, and the maximum power the vehicle itself can accept.
The good news is that, in practice, most charging takes place while the car is parked: at home overnight, during the working day, or while you're shopping. In other words, you rarely need to wait for it to finish charging to get on with your day.
In this guide, we break down how long it takes to charge an electric car by charger type, what the charging time depends on, and which option best suits your driving habits.
What the charging time of an electric car depends on
Although we usually talk in hours or minutes, there is no single charging time for all electric cars. The charging speed depends on several factors you should know before choosing a charge point.
Battery capacity
The battery stores the energy the vehicle needs to run, and its capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
The larger the battery, the more energy needs to be replenished. For example, a car with a 40 kWh battery will take less time to charge than one with a 77 kWh battery if both use the same charger.
Charger power output
The power of the charge point, measured in kW, determines the speed at which it can supply energy to the vehicle.
This is why charging times vary so much between a domestic plug socket, a wallbox, and a rapid charger.
The maximum power the vehicle accepts
Here, it is worth debunking a widespread misconception: a more powerful charger does not always charge faster.
Every car has a maximum charging capacity. If the vehicle can accept up to 100 kW, connecting it to a 350 kW charger will not make it exceed that limit.
Battery percentage
Starting a charge with the battery at 10% is not the same as starting at 60%.
Furthermore, when we talk about rapid charging, the time is usually calculated up to 80%, as the final stage of the charge works differently.
The charging curve
Electric cars do not always charge at the same speed.
During the first part of the charge, the battery accepts more power. However, from around 80%, the system progressively reduces the speed to protect the battery and promote a longer lifespan.
Quick guide: charging times by charger type
For a quick reference, this table outlines the estimated charging times for an electric car with a 50 to 70 kWh battery.
|
Charger type |
Typical power |
Estimated time* |
Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Domestic plug socket |
2.3 kW |
20–30 hours |
Occasional use |
|
Home wallbox |
7.4 kW |
6–10 hours |
Daily charging at home |
|
Semi-rapid charging |
11–22 kW |
3–6 hours |
Car parks, workplaces, or shopping centres |
|
Rapid charging |
50–100 kW |
30–60 minutes (up to 80%) |
Road trips and long journeys |
|
Ultra-rapid charging |
150–350 kW |
15–30 minutes (up to 80%) |
Recharging range on the motorway |
*Times are estimates and may vary depending on battery capacity, outside temperature, the power available at the charge point, and the vehicle's specifications.
As you can see, the best charger is not always the most powerful one, but the one that best suits your needs. For most drivers, routine charging takes place at home, while rapid charging is reserved for trips.
How long it takes to charge an electric car at home
Charging an electric car at home usually takes between 6 and 10 hours with a 7.4 kW wallbox. If you use a standard domestic plug socket, the time can exceed 20 hours.
Most drivers choose to recharge their vehicle overnight. This way, while the car is parked, it replenishes the energy needed for the next day without disrupting their routine.
If you have a dedicated parking space, installing a specific charge point is the most convenient and efficient way to charge your car at home. If you are considering making the switch, you can explore Endesa's electric car charger installation solutions, which are tailored for both houses and communal car parks.
How long it takes to charge from a domestic plug socket
An electric car can take between 20 and 30 hours to charge from a standard plug socket.
While it can serve as a one-off solution, it is not recommended for daily use. Its low power output makes charging much slower than with a dedicated charge point.
If you are going to charge your vehicle frequently, installing a wallbox will allow you to reduce the charging time and enjoy safer, more convenient charging.
How long it takes to charge with a 7.4 kW wallbox
A 7.4 kW wallbox can charge an electric car in about 6 to 10 hours, which is enough time to complete a full charge overnight.
This is why it is the most popular option for houses and communal car parks. In addition to reducing charging time, it allows you to schedule your charges and better manage your household electricity consumption.
If you are thinking of installing a charge point, it is advisable to choose a solution tailored to both your home's characteristics and the maximum power your vehicle accepts.
How long it takes with semi-rapid charging
Semi-rapid charging can recharge an electric car in around 3 to 6 hours.
These types of chargers are usually found in public car parks, workplaces, hotels, or shopping centres. They are a great alternative when your vehicle will be parked for several hours and you want to top up your range while doing something else.
How long it takes with rapid charging
With a rapid charger, an electric car can recover up to 80% of its battery in just 30 to 60 minutes. This type of charging, with power outputs between 50 and 100 kW, is designed for those who need to get back on the road quickly.
It is the most common option when on a road trip. While you stop for a rest or a coffee, you can recover a significant amount of range and continue your journey.
If you use your car for long journeys, Endesa's public charging network is the perfect complement to home charging, allowing you to locate rapid and ultra-rapid charge points right across the country.
How long it takes with ultra-rapid charging
Ultra-rapid charging can recharge a battery to 80% in approximately 15 to 30 minutes, provided the vehicle is compatible with these power levels.
However, there is one important detail to bear in mind: a 350 kW charger doesn't always charge faster. The vehicle will only use the maximum power its charging system can accept.
Therefore, before focusing solely on the charger's power, it is worth checking your car's specifications.
How to calculate your electric car's charging time
If you want a rough estimate, you can use this formula:
Charging time = battery capacity (kWh) ÷ charger power (kW)
For example, if your car has a 60 kWh battery and you use a 7.4 kW charger, a full charge will take around 8 hours.
This is an approximate calculation, as other factors also come into play during charging, such as the efficiency of the system and the battery's charging curve.
Why charging slows down after 80%
If you have ever used a rapid charger, you will have noticed that the battery charges more slowly once it hits 80%. This is completely normal.
The vehicle itself reduces the power intake to protect the battery and promote a longer lifespan. That is why the final 20% often takes longer than the first few miles of range.
For day-to-day use, many manufacturers recommend keeping the battery between 20% and 80%, reserving a 100% charge for road trips or when you need maximum range.
Which charger is right for your daily use
Not all drivers need the same type of charger. The best option will depend on where you usually park and how you use your car.
|
Situation |
Recommended option |
|---|---|
|
You charge your car at home every night |
7.4 kW wallbox |
|
You drive short distances and charge occasionally |
Domestic plug socket (occasional use) |
|
You park away from home for several hours |
Semi-rapid charging |
|
You frequently go on long trips |
Rapid or ultra-rapid charging |
In practice, many drivers combine these options: charging their car at home for daily use and using the public network when they need to top up their range during a trip.
If you do not yet have a charge point, you can explore Endesa's solutions for installing a home charger, which are tailored for both houses and communal car parks.
How to reduce the cost of charging an electric car at home
Charging your car at home is not just convenient; it can also be the most cost-effective option if you plan your charging well.
Some tips for saving money include:
- Scheduling charging during the hours when electricity prices are lowest.
- Using a wallbox to better manage the available power.
- Avoiding charging to 100% when it is not necessary.
- Choosing a tariff tailored to electric vehicle usage.
If you regularly charge your car at home, combining a charge point with one of Endesa's specific electric vehicle tariffs can help you optimise both the time and cost of every charge.
FAQs about electric car charging times
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
It depends on the type of charger. It can take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes with an ultra-rapid charger, up to more than 20 hours using a domestic plug socket.
How long does it take to charge an electric car to 80%?
With a rapid charger, it typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. With an ultra-rapid charger, this time can drop to 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the vehicle.
How many kWh does an electric car need to charge?
It depends on the battery capacity. Current models typically have batteries of between 40 and 80 kWh, although there are vehicles with larger capacities.
Is it better to charge an electric car at home or at a public charge point?
For daily use, charging at home is usually the most convenient and cost-effective option. Public rapid and ultra-rapid charge points are the perfect complement for trips or when you need to top up your range quickly.
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You don't need to adapt to Endesa's tariffs because they adapt to you. If you go to our catalogue you can compare the different tariffs for yourself. Or if you prefer, you can answer a few questions and we will take care of comparing all the different electricity and gas tariffs and then make a customised recommendation.
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