If you've ever owned an electric vehicle (EV) before, you'll know how great it is to drive. Sleek, smooth and efficient.
Yet, there's one common concern that can diminish the joy of driving an EV: range anxiety. This worry is compounded by the challenge of finding compatible fast chargers that can quickly power up your battery.
To tackle this concern head-on, Level 3 chargers are the best pick for you. But how can you find Level 3 charging stations? Well, in this article, we'll be explaining why you want to use them and where you can.
Before we charge into helping you find Level 3 charging stations, let's quickly explain what exactly it is.
Basically, it is when you use a DC fast charger to juice up your electric vehicle. More specifically, unlike Level 1 and 2 stations, which use alternating current (AC) and can take hours to charge your car any significant amount, Level 3 chargers use direct current (DC) and can fill up your battery to 80% in under an hour, the specific time depending on your EV model and the kW speed.
What makes Level 3 charging so fast is its power output; it can deliver anywhere from 50 kW to 350 kW of power. To put that into perspective, a typical Level 2 point might offer between 7 to 19 kW.
Now, you know that a Level 3 charger can fill your EV up quickly, and I'm sure you're raring to go and use one. But don't rush into things because while they are the fastest way to charge, they're also the priciest.
Costs can vary, but you can expect to pay around 70p per kWh on average when using a rapid charger. If your electric vehicle has a 60 kWh battery, you can anticipate about £42 for a full charge from empty to 100%. This is significantly more expensive than slower Level 2 chargers or charging at home.
Specific networks do vary, though; below are a few of the more popular public EV charging networks in the UK and their PAYG prices.
It's also worth noting that some charging networks require a membership fee or have different pricing structures based on whether you're a subscriber or a pay-as-you-go user.
With those public prices, you might be thinking, "Surely it'd be easier to just install a Level 3 charger in my home?" Unless you have a spare £20,000 to £50,000 lying around, we wouldn't recommend it. That's right; a Level 3 home charge can cost as much as a brand-new EV.
But why is it so expensive?
Well, installing a Level 3 charger at home isn't as simple as plugging in the kettle. You'll need a dedicated high-voltage supply, which means upgrading your home's electrical system. Then you need the station itself. It's just not a feasible option for most drivers.
On top of that, most residential areas in the UK don't have the electrical capacity to support this level of charging. Level 3 chargers require a three-phase power supply, which is more commonly found in commercial and industrial areas. So, even if you're willing to splash the cash, you might not be able to get the necessary permissions and upgrades.
If you're looking for a home charging spot, Level 2 stations are the way to go. They're cheaper, costing around £500 to £1,500, and they can be easily placed in most homes with a driveway. However, for homeowners that don’t have a driveway, check out our guide on ‘How to Charge Electric Cars Without a Driveway’.
Sure, Level 2 chargers take a bit longer to power your EV, but they're still a convenient and cost-effective solution for everyday use. Besides, you can always use the Level 3 public charging stations if you're looking for a quick burst of energy every now and then.
How easy it'll be for you to use a Level 3 charging point depends on where exactly you live; some locations are flush with options, while some regions might have just the odd chargers here and there. However, regardless of which area you live in, the basic idea of finding a DC point remains the same.
First and foremost, let's talk about apps and websites. There are plenty of these dedicated to helping drivers find EV charging points like ZapMap. With these, you just enter your location, put in a few filters, and voila! You'll see a list of nearby chargers, complete with information on charger speed and even some photos. There's also Google Maps, which isn't as comprehensive but is incredibly easy to use.
There are also plenty of charging networks that have their own apps, like BP Pulse or GeniePoint, which you can use to find their specific stations. These applications often come with a bit more information than more general ones, telling you about real-time updates and charger status, which can help save you from making a drive to a station only to find it's in use.
In addition to this, it can be even easier than that, too. Many modern EVs come equipped with built-in navigation systems that can direct you towards the nearest charging station.
But we haven't mentioned the single best way to find Level 3 chargers (or any type of charging station, in general) – OVO Charge powered by Bonnet. That's our app, which thousands of drivers across the UK use to find quick and easy EV charging points.
With OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, finding a Level 3 point is a piece of cake. Just open up the app, and you'll see a map displaying all the sites in your area. You can then filter the results to show only Level 3 chargers, so you don't have to waste your time checking slower options.
But this is not all.
Our app provides detailed information on each station, including the type of connector, charging speed and even the price per kWh. This way, you can make an informed decision about where to power your EV based on your specific needs and budget.
One of the best things about us is that, unlike GeniePoint's or BP Pulse's apps, we're not tied to any single network. We work with a wide range of networks so that you can access Level 3 chargers from all the major players, like ESB Energy, Ionity and Osprey, all through one easy-to-use app. No more juggling multiple memberships or RFID cards!
And if you're wondering about payment, we've got you covered there. You can just add a payment method to the app, and then all you have to do is plug in and start charging. We take care of the rest.
So, if you want to simplify your EV experience and find Level 3 chargers with ease, download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today.
While DC chargers aren't necessary for everyday use, they can be a lifesaver in a tough spot. Whether you're on a long road trip or just need a quick top-up, knowing how to find Level 3 charging stations is essential for any EV owner.
If you're unsure if a point is a Level 3 charging station, look for terms like "DC fast charging," "rapid charging," or "supercharging." These chargers will typically use a CHAdeMO or CCS connector, and the charging speed will be listed as 50 kW or higher.
Not all EVs are compatible with Level 3 charging, so it's essential to check your vehicle's specifications. Most modern electric cars can use them, but some older models or PHEVs may be limited to Level 1 or Level 2 points.
Yes, Chargepoint offers Level 3 charging stations as part of their network. You can use the Chargepoint app or website to locate these points.
While Level 3 charging is generally safe for your EV's battery, it is important to note that frequent use can lead to slightly faster cell degradation compared to Level 1 or 2 charging.
If you've ever owned an electric vehicle (EV) before, you'll know how great it is to drive. Sleek, smooth and efficient.
Yet, there's one common concern that can diminish the joy of driving an EV: range anxiety. This worry is compounded by the challenge of finding compatible fast chargers that can quickly power up your battery.
To tackle this concern head-on, Level 3 chargers are the best pick for you. But how can you find Level 3 charging stations? Well, in this article, we'll be explaining why you want to use them and where you can.
Before we charge into helping you find Level 3 charging stations, let's quickly explain what exactly it is.
Basically, it is when you use a DC fast charger to juice up your electric vehicle. More specifically, unlike Level 1 and 2 stations, which use alternating current (AC) and can take hours to charge your car any significant amount, Level 3 chargers use direct current (DC) and can fill up your battery to 80% in under an hour, the specific time depending on your EV model and the kW speed.
What makes Level 3 charging so fast is its power output; it can deliver anywhere from 50 kW to 350 kW of power. To put that into perspective, a typical Level 2 point might offer between 7 to 19 kW.
Now, you know that a Level 3 charger can fill your EV up quickly, and I'm sure you're raring to go and use one. But don't rush into things because while they are the fastest way to charge, they're also the priciest.
Costs can vary, but you can expect to pay around 70p per kWh on average when using a rapid charger. If your electric vehicle has a 60 kWh battery, you can anticipate about £42 for a full charge from empty to 100%. This is significantly more expensive than slower Level 2 chargers or charging at home.
Specific networks do vary, though; below are a few of the more popular public EV charging networks in the UK and their PAYG prices.
It's also worth noting that some charging networks require a membership fee or have different pricing structures based on whether you're a subscriber or a pay-as-you-go user.
With those public prices, you might be thinking, "Surely it'd be easier to just install a Level 3 charger in my home?" Unless you have a spare £20,000 to £50,000 lying around, we wouldn't recommend it. That's right; a Level 3 home charge can cost as much as a brand-new EV.
But why is it so expensive?
Well, installing a Level 3 charger at home isn't as simple as plugging in the kettle. You'll need a dedicated high-voltage supply, which means upgrading your home's electrical system. Then you need the station itself. It's just not a feasible option for most drivers.
On top of that, most residential areas in the UK don't have the electrical capacity to support this level of charging. Level 3 chargers require a three-phase power supply, which is more commonly found in commercial and industrial areas. So, even if you're willing to splash the cash, you might not be able to get the necessary permissions and upgrades.
If you're looking for a home charging spot, Level 2 stations are the way to go. They're cheaper, costing around £500 to £1,500, and they can be easily placed in most homes with a driveway. However, for homeowners that don’t have a driveway, check out our guide on ‘How to Charge Electric Cars Without a Driveway’.
Sure, Level 2 chargers take a bit longer to power your EV, but they're still a convenient and cost-effective solution for everyday use. Besides, you can always use the Level 3 public charging stations if you're looking for a quick burst of energy every now and then.
How easy it'll be for you to use a Level 3 charging point depends on where exactly you live; some locations are flush with options, while some regions might have just the odd chargers here and there. However, regardless of which area you live in, the basic idea of finding a DC point remains the same.
First and foremost, let's talk about apps and websites. There are plenty of these dedicated to helping drivers find EV charging points like ZapMap. With these, you just enter your location, put in a few filters, and voila! You'll see a list of nearby chargers, complete with information on charger speed and even some photos. There's also Google Maps, which isn't as comprehensive but is incredibly easy to use.
There are also plenty of charging networks that have their own apps, like BP Pulse or GeniePoint, which you can use to find their specific stations. These applications often come with a bit more information than more general ones, telling you about real-time updates and charger status, which can help save you from making a drive to a station only to find it's in use.
In addition to this, it can be even easier than that, too. Many modern EVs come equipped with built-in navigation systems that can direct you towards the nearest charging station.
But we haven't mentioned the single best way to find Level 3 chargers (or any type of charging station, in general) – OVO Charge powered by Bonnet. That's our app, which thousands of drivers across the UK use to find quick and easy EV charging points.
With OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, finding a Level 3 point is a piece of cake. Just open up the app, and you'll see a map displaying all the sites in your area. You can then filter the results to show only Level 3 chargers, so you don't have to waste your time checking slower options.
But this is not all.
Our app provides detailed information on each station, including the type of connector, charging speed and even the price per kWh. This way, you can make an informed decision about where to power your EV based on your specific needs and budget.
One of the best things about us is that, unlike GeniePoint's or BP Pulse's apps, we're not tied to any single network. We work with a wide range of networks so that you can access Level 3 chargers from all the major players, like ESB Energy, Ionity and Osprey, all through one easy-to-use app. No more juggling multiple memberships or RFID cards!
And if you're wondering about payment, we've got you covered there. You can just add a payment method to the app, and then all you have to do is plug in and start charging. We take care of the rest.
So, if you want to simplify your EV experience and find Level 3 chargers with ease, download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today.
While DC chargers aren't necessary for everyday use, they can be a lifesaver in a tough spot. Whether you're on a long road trip or just need a quick top-up, knowing how to find Level 3 charging stations is essential for any EV owner.
If you've ever owned an electric vehicle (EV) before, you'll know how great it is to drive. Sleek, smooth and efficient.
Yet, there's one common concern that can diminish the joy of driving an EV: range anxiety. This worry is compounded by the challenge of finding compatible fast chargers that can quickly power up your battery.
To tackle this concern head-on, Level 3 chargers are the best pick for you. But how can you find Level 3 charging stations? Well, in this article, we'll be explaining why you want to use them and where you can.
Before we charge into helping you find Level 3 charging stations, let's quickly explain what exactly it is.
Basically, it is when you use a DC fast charger to juice up your electric vehicle. More specifically, unlike Level 1 and 2 stations, which use alternating current (AC) and can take hours to charge your car any significant amount, Level 3 chargers use direct current (DC) and can fill up your battery to 80% in under an hour, the specific time depending on your EV model and the kW speed.
What makes Level 3 charging so fast is its power output; it can deliver anywhere from 50 kW to 350 kW of power. To put that into perspective, a typical Level 2 point might offer between 7 to 19 kW.
Now, you know that a Level 3 charger can fill your EV up quickly, and I'm sure you're raring to go and use one. But don't rush into things because while they are the fastest way to charge, they're also the priciest.
Costs can vary, but you can expect to pay around 70p per kWh on average when using a rapid charger. If your electric vehicle has a 60 kWh battery, you can anticipate about £42 for a full charge from empty to 100%. This is significantly more expensive than slower Level 2 chargers or charging at home.
Specific networks do vary, though; below are a few of the more popular public EV charging networks in the UK and their PAYG prices.
It's also worth noting that some charging networks require a membership fee or have different pricing structures based on whether you're a subscriber or a pay-as-you-go user.
With those public prices, you might be thinking, "Surely it'd be easier to just install a Level 3 charger in my home?" Unless you have a spare £20,000 to £50,000 lying around, we wouldn't recommend it. That's right; a Level 3 home charge can cost as much as a brand-new EV.
But why is it so expensive?
Well, installing a Level 3 charger at home isn't as simple as plugging in the kettle. You'll need a dedicated high-voltage supply, which means upgrading your home's electrical system. Then you need the station itself. It's just not a feasible option for most drivers.
On top of that, most residential areas in the UK don't have the electrical capacity to support this level of charging. Level 3 chargers require a three-phase power supply, which is more commonly found in commercial and industrial areas. So, even if you're willing to splash the cash, you might not be able to get the necessary permissions and upgrades.
If you're looking for a home charging spot, Level 2 stations are the way to go. They're cheaper, costing around £500 to £1,500, and they can be easily placed in most homes with a driveway. However, for homeowners that don’t have a driveway, check out our guide on ‘How to Charge Electric Cars Without a Driveway’.
Sure, Level 2 chargers take a bit longer to power your EV, but they're still a convenient and cost-effective solution for everyday use. Besides, you can always use the Level 3 public charging stations if you're looking for a quick burst of energy every now and then.
How easy it'll be for you to use a Level 3 charging point depends on where exactly you live; some locations are flush with options, while some regions might have just the odd chargers here and there. However, regardless of which area you live in, the basic idea of finding a DC point remains the same.
First and foremost, let's talk about apps and websites. There are plenty of these dedicated to helping drivers find EV charging points like ZapMap. With these, you just enter your location, put in a few filters, and voila! You'll see a list of nearby chargers, complete with information on charger speed and even some photos. There's also Google Maps, which isn't as comprehensive but is incredibly easy to use.
There are also plenty of charging networks that have their own apps, like BP Pulse or GeniePoint, which you can use to find their specific stations. These applications often come with a bit more information than more general ones, telling you about real-time updates and charger status, which can help save you from making a drive to a station only to find it's in use.
In addition to this, it can be even easier than that, too. Many modern EVs come equipped with built-in navigation systems that can direct you towards the nearest charging station.
But we haven't mentioned the single best way to find Level 3 chargers (or any type of charging station, in general) – OVO Charge powered by Bonnet. That's our app, which thousands of drivers across the UK use to find quick and easy EV charging points.
With OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, finding a Level 3 point is a piece of cake. Just open up the app, and you'll see a map displaying all the sites in your area. You can then filter the results to show only Level 3 chargers, so you don't have to waste your time checking slower options.
But this is not all.
Our app provides detailed information on each station, including the type of connector, charging speed and even the price per kWh. This way, you can make an informed decision about where to power your EV based on your specific needs and budget.
One of the best things about us is that, unlike GeniePoint's or BP Pulse's apps, we're not tied to any single network. We work with a wide range of networks so that you can access Level 3 chargers from all the major players, like ESB Energy, Ionity and Osprey, all through one easy-to-use app. No more juggling multiple memberships or RFID cards!
And if you're wondering about payment, we've got you covered there. You can just add a payment method to the app, and then all you have to do is plug in and start charging. We take care of the rest.
So, if you want to simplify your EV experience and find Level 3 chargers with ease, download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today.
While DC chargers aren't necessary for everyday use, they can be a lifesaver in a tough spot. Whether you're on a long road trip or just need a quick top-up, knowing how to find Level 3 charging stations is essential for any EV owner.
If you're unsure if a point is a Level 3 charging station, look for terms like "DC fast charging," "rapid charging," or "supercharging." These chargers will typically use a CHAdeMO or CCS connector, and the charging speed will be listed as 50 kW or higher.
Not all EVs are compatible with Level 3 charging, so it's essential to check your vehicle's specifications. Most modern electric cars can use them, but some older models or PHEVs may be limited to Level 1 or Level 2 points.
Yes, Chargepoint offers Level 3 charging stations as part of their network. You can use the Chargepoint app or website to locate these points.
While Level 3 charging is generally safe for your EV's battery, it is important to note that frequent use can lead to slightly faster cell degradation compared to Level 1 or 2 charging.
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