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The cost of charging an electric car: An update

With the growing popularity of electric cars (EVs), it is important to understand the cost of charging your vehicle. In this article, we discuss the different options and what you can expect in terms of cost.

Charging at home

Charging at home is often the most cost-effective way to charge your electric car. The costs depend on your energy tariff. In the Netherlands, this tariff averages around €0.30 per kWh. For a car with a battery capacity of 60 kWh, this means that a full recharge will cost around €18. This is ideal for people who can charge their car at night when energy rates are often lower.

Advantages of charging at home:

Cost savings: Charging at home is usually cheaper than public charging stations or fast chargers.

Convenience: You can charge your car while you sleep or are at home.

Control: You have control over when and how often you charge.

Disadvantages of charging at home:

Installation costs: Installing a home charging station can be a significant investment.

Charging speed: Home charging can be slower than fast charging, depending on your home charging station.

Public charging stations

Public charging stations are convenient for people who need to charge on the go. Costs vary greatly by location, but in cities such as Eindhoven, prices average around €0.54 per kWh. For the same 60 kWh battery, a full charge would cost around €32.40. While this is more expensive than charging at home, it does offer the flexibility to charge your car whenever you want.

Advantages of public charging stations:

Accessibility: Available in many locations, such as shopping centres, car parks and along motorways.

Flexibility: You can charge whenever you want, without depending on home.

Disadvantages of public charging stations:

Cost: More expensive than charging at home.

Availability: You may have to wait if all charging stations are occupied.

Fast chargers

Fast chargers are perfect for those times when you need to get back on the road quickly. These charging stations can charge your car in a fraction of the time, but this comes with a higher price tag. The cost of fast charging ranges between €0.40 and €0.90 per kWh, with an average of around €0.65 per kWh. For a full 60 kWh charge, you then come out at around €39. This is the most expensive option, but the convenience and speed may justify the extra cost.

Advantages of fast chargers:

Speed: Charges your car much faster than home or public charging stations.

Convenience: Ideal for long trips or when you need to get back on the road quickly.

Disadvantages of fast chargers:

Cost: The most expensive option for charging.

Availability: Not as widespread as home charging stations or public charging stations.

Other Factors Influencing Costs

Besides location and type of charging station, there are other factors that can affect the cost of charging an electric car:

Car efficiency: Some electric cars are more efficient than others, meaning they require less energy to travel the same distance.

Charging losses: A small percentage of energy is always lost during charging. This can vary depending on the charging station and the car.

Time of day: Some energy suppliers offer lower rates during off-peak hours, which can make charging at home cheaper.

The cost of charging an electric car can vary depending on where and how you charge. Charging at home is usually the cheapest, while fast chargers are the fastest but most expensive option. Public charging stations offer a good middle ground in terms of cost and convenience. By considering these factors, you can make the best choice for your situation and driving habits.

It is important to plan and understand which charging option best suits your lifestyle. Whether you opt for the cost savings of home charging, the flexibility of public charging stations, or the speed of fast chargers, there is always an option to suit your needs.