07/01/2024 15:12
If you’re thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), there are many fantastic options on the Motability Scheme. As EVs gain popularity, the availability and accessibility of public chargepoints has become crucial for owners.
Read on to discover more about charging on the go, and whether it’s right for you.
Charging an electric vehicle involves connecting it to a charging point. There are three main places you can do this: at home, at work, or at one of the 53,029 (and counting) public charge points across the UK.
Charging at home is generally the most convenient option. However, you will need to utilise public charge points if:
Important note: When you lease your first EV through the Motability Scheme, you’re eligible to have a home chargepoint installed. Motability will cover the cost of the charge point and its installation. Learn more about home charging.
Many public places, such as shopping centres, supermarkets, and gyms offer EV charging in their car parks. These points typically provide 7kW charging, offering an average EV around 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
If you need a speedier top-up, you can make use of the rapid and ultra-rapid charge points commonly found at motorway service stations. These typically provide between 100-350kW charging, allowing you to top up your battery faster. Many vehicles can gain up to 80% charge in under 40 minutes via this method.
You can find your nearest electric car charge point on our handy map. Alternatively, if your EV has sat nav, local charging points will be displayed there.
To charge your car at a public point, follow the steps below.
Important note: This information is for guidance purposes only. Individual charging stations may vary. Always refer to your vehicle handbook and the charging station's instructions.
The cost of using a public charge point depends on several factors, including:
It’s worth noting that charging rates may be displayed differently at various charge points. Some may refer to ‘per kilowatt-hour (kWh)’, while others may use ‘per minute’.
If you can't have a home charge point and you're getting your first EV through the Scheme, Motability will give you a subscription to the bp pulse network.* This gives you convenient access to over 9,000 public chargepoints across the UK.
With this, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Charging your electric vehicle away from home can be a seamless experience if you know what to do. Here are some practical tips to make the most of your EV charging while you are out and about.
Before you set off, think about the route you will take and whether there will be charge points along the way, if needed. Using your vehicle’s sat nav should help with this and will prevent you from taking unnecessary detours to find a charger.
Download some EV charging apps to allow you to locate nearby charge points and check their availability.
Networks such as bp pulse allow you to take advantage of various benefits including discounted rates.
While many public charge points provide cables, having your own is handy in case of any issues. It also ensures compatibility with your vehicle if you bring your own.
Different charging stations offer varying speeds of charge. Knowing what is available allows you to plan your stops based on the time you have available.
We hope this article has provided some useful insight into charging an EV away from home. If you have any further queries, feel free to speak with your Motability Specialist at your local dealership; they will be happy to advise.
At Bristol Street Motors, we’ll help you find the perfect Motability car to suit your needs. Our friendly team can offer advice and guidance on our full range of vehicles, including hybrid and electric models.
Stay up to speed with all things Motability by checking out our Newsroom.
*For full terms and conditions visit: https://www.motability.co.uk/whats-available/electric-cars/charging/public-charging/