Car Tips and Tricks
Ready to learn more about Charging electric vehicles?
Ready to learn more about Charging electric vehicles? Despite this, there are still some doubts about the operation and charging of electric vehicles. At Xtracars, we're here to make your life easier. That's why we're bringing you an article with all the information you need. Find out all about it.
When and where can you charge your electric car?
Charging an electric vehicle is becoming increasingly simple. You can charge your car in the street while you're shopping, for example, or at home during the night. To make your life even easier, to charge at public stations, you can consult the MOBI.E app. Here you can locate charging stations, check availability in real-time, and even book a charging point. It's so easy it doesn't even seem real.
5 myths about electric vehicle charging
Now, let's dispel some of the most popular myths about electric vehicle charging.
Myth 1: Charging an electric vehicle takes too long
The charging time for an electric vehicle varies depending on the type of charger. In Portugal, the network of fast-charging stations means that in between 30 and 60 minutes you'll have 80% of the battery and be on your way. That's time to go for a coffee. Home chargers take significantly longer, but that's not a problem. You can leave the car charging overnight, without interfering with your day-to-day life.
Myth 2: Not enough infrastructure
The truth is that, although the charging network is growing, there is no shortage of stations. In addition to charging points in shopping centers, parking lots, and other places, there are plenty of fast charging stations throughout the country. We would like to point out that MOBI.E, the Portuguese electric mobility network, is continuing to expand. Just wait and see.
Myth 3: Charging an electric vehicle is very expensive
Compared to refueling a combustion vehicle, charging an electric car is much more wallet friendly. So, if you take advantage of two-hourly tariffs and charge your car at night at a lower cost, you'll save money. What's more, many public charging points offer very competitive prices, and some are even free.
Myth 4: There aren't enough fast chargers
The fast-charging network is still expanding, but the truth is that you can already count on plenty of fast charging stations in urban areas and on major highways. One thing is for sure, the rollout continues with a steady increase in the number of fast charging points across the country.
Myth 5: It's dangerous to charge an electric vehicle at home
Charging an electric car at home is safe, as long as the charger is installed by a qualified electrician. If this is the case, you don't have to worry, home chargers are designed with multiple protections to ensure safe charging.
Get to know the different charging stations
In the network of public charging stations, chargers vary according to the level of power they provide and the charging speed they can achieve. Bear in mind that there are the following:
- Normal charging station - allows electric vehicles to be charged on public roads or private spaces. It transfers electricity to vehicles with power up to 22 kW.
- Fast charging stations - allow direct current (DC) to be supplied directly from the electric vehicle's battery and therefore faster charging. It transfers electricity to vehicles with power ratings of up to 22 kW and up to 150 kW. Some of these stations have different types of sockets, as they allow alternating current (AC) charging.
- Ultra-fast charging stations - these chargers supply energy to vehicles with power outputs above 150 kW. They are ideal for shopping centers and service areas, where in a short stop you can have energy for the rest of the journey, ultra-fast.
If you were to ask our opinion on the most suitable type of charging, we would say to use normal charging stations 80% of the time and fast or ultra-fast charging stations only 20% of the time. Frequent use of fast and ultra-fast charging stations tends to shorten the life cycle of the battery.
Discover the Xtracars electric fleet
We're thinking of you and the environment, we want to guide you to the best choices. The Xtracars electric fleet is one of them. Discover it and choose the perfect electric vehicle for you.
We always want to be by your side, even when the unexpected happens. To do this, add the Top Travel Assistance add-on product. That way, towing costs are covered. If something happens, like you run out of battery, you're always protected.