Getting Started with Public EV Charging
Transitioning from a petrol car to an electric vehicle can feel daunting, especially when it comes to charging away from home. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Types of EV Chargers
Understanding charger types is essential:
- AC Slow Chargers (3-7 kW): Perfect for overnight charging, takes 6-12 hours for a full charge. Most affordable option.
- AC Fast Chargers (11-22 kW): Ideal for shopping malls and offices, provides 100km range in 2-3 hours.
- DC Fast Chargers (50-150 kW): Highway charging, 80% charge in 30-45 minutes. Best for long trips.
Step-by-Step Charging Process
- Locate a charging station using the Lithions app
- Check real-time availability before heading there
- Park at the designated charging bay
- Connect the appropriate cable to your vehicle
- Open the Lithions app and scan the QR code
- Confirm and start your charging session
- Monitor progress through the app
- End session and payment is automatically processed
Pro Tips for Efficient Charging
• Charge to 80% for faster sessions (the last 20% takes disproportionately longer)
• Pre-condition your battery in extreme weather for optimal charging speed
• Plan your route to include charging stops strategically
• Keep an eye on dynamic pricing - off-peak hours often have better rates