Why Charging an EV Isn't Just About Speed: Destination vs Rapid Charging
Learn the key differences between destination and rapid charging for electric vehicles in the UK. Understand speed, locations, costs, and use cases to pick the best EV charging option.
With electric vehicles becoming more popular in the UK, EV drivers need to understand the different charging options available beyond just charging speed. Comparing destination charging vs rapid charging for EVs involves factoring in location, cost, use cases and other considerations. This article explains the key differences between destination and rapid charging to help EV owners pick the best option.
What is Destination Charging?
Destination charging refers to Level 2 AC charging stations located where drivers already spend time parked, such as workplaces, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and other public venues.
Destination EV charging points typically offer slower charging speeds, adding around 20 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. The advantages of destination chargers are convenience and low cost. Drivers can conveniently top up their EV's charge while at work or running errands without going out of their way.
Many destinations offer destination charging for free or at very inexpensive rates to customers. For daily commuting and errands within a local area, destination charging is often sufficient to meet an EV owner's needs.
What is Rapid Charging?
Rapid charging for EVs uses direct current (DC) fast chargers that can charge an EV's battery up to 80% in around 30 minutes. This enables much faster charging speeds compared to destination charging points.
Rapid charging stations are located along motorways and key transport routes to cater to EV drivers undertaking longer journeys where a quick boost is needed. Using connectors like CCS or CHAdeMO, rapid chargers can add over 100 miles of range in just 15 to 30 minutes.
However, rapid charging costs significantly more than destination charging, typically £15 to £30 per session depending on the charging speed and power level. The fast speeds require expensive, high-powered charging equipment.
Key Differences Between Destination and Rapid Charging
The main differences between destination and rapid charging for EVs include:
Speed
Rapid charging is much faster, enabling the addition of 100+ miles of range in 15-30 minutes.
Destination charging is slower, adding 20-30 miles per hour.
Locations
Destination chargers are found at parking lots where drivers already spend time.
Rapid chargers are located on highways and major roads for long trips.
Cost
Destination charging is mostly free or very inexpensive.
Rapid charging costs £15 to £30 per session.
Use Cases
Destination charging is ideal for daily commuting and errands.
Rapid charging enables long road trips of 100+ miles.
Which is Better for EV Owners?
Whether destination or rapid charging is better depends entirely on the use case. For daily drives within a local area, destination charging often provides ample affordable charge without going out of your way. But for long motorway journeys, rapid charging is essential to charge up in a reasonable timeframe.
Most EV owners rely on a mix of both destination and rapid charging options tailored to their specific driving habits and needs.
Other Key Considerations
Accessibility
Destination chargers are sometimes occupied or blocked by petrol vehicles. Rapid chargers have dedicated parking spots, but may have queues during peak times.
Battery Impact
Frequent rapid charging can degrade an EV's battery faster over time. The slower charging of destination chargers is gentler on battery health.
Infrastructure Growth
As EVs gain popularity across the UK, investment is needed in both destination and rapid charging networks in towns, cities and along motorways.
Conclusion
For EV drivers, charging decisions involve more than just charging speed. The location, cost, and use cases make destination and rapid charging suited to different needs. EV owners should understand their options and choose station types based on driving patterns. Responsible growth of charging infrastructure across the UK will be key for mass adoption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a rapid charging session take?
A: Most rapid charging sessions take 15-30 minutes to charge an EV battery up to 80% from low levels. The actual time depends on the max charging speed.
Q: Where are rapid charging stations located?
A: Rapid chargers are located along motorways and major roads to enable long distance EV travel. They are not as widely available as destination chargers.
Q: Are there other kinds of EV charging?
A: Yes, there is also Level 1 charging which uses a regular wall socket. This adds only a few miles of range per hour and is best for overnight charging.
Q: Does rapid charging reduce an EV's battery life?
A: Frequent rapid charging can degrade a battery faster over time. But occasional rapid charging on long trips is fine and should not significantly impact battery lifespan.
