As the number of electric vehicles on the road continues to increase, the need for convenient charging options becomes more important. If you own an electric vehicle, adding an electric car charging point to your garage can be a game-changer. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of adding an electric car charging point to your garage and how it can improve your experience as an EV driver, specifically with the Volvo C40.
Convenience is the most significant benefit of adding an electric car charging point to your garage. With a charging point at home, you can easily and quickly charge your electric car without needing to visit a public charging station. This means you can avoid waiting in line, and you’ll have the flexibility to charge your car at any time, day or night.
Another benefit of having an electric car charging point in your garage is the cost savings. Public charging stations can be expensive, especially for rapid charging. Charging your car at home is generally cheaper, and many energy providers offer lower rates for EV charging during off-peak hours.
Lastly, having a charging point at home means you’ll never have to worry about range anxiety. With a fully charged electric car, you’ll have the peace of mind that you can drive as far as you need to without needing to find a charging station.
Choosing the Right Charging Point for Your Volvo C40
If you’re considering adding an electric car charging point to your garage for your Volvo C40, you’ll need to choose the right one. There are two types of electric car charging points: slow chargers and fast chargers.
Slow chargers, also known as Level 2 chargers, provide a charging rate of 3.6kW to 7kW. These chargers are suitable for overnight charging and are the most affordable option.
Fast chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers or rapid chargers, provide a charging rate of 22kW to 50kW or higher. These chargers are more expensive, but they can charge your Volvo C40 quickly, typically in under an hour.
When choosing a charging point for your Volvo C40, you’ll also need to consider the connector type. The Volvo C40 uses a Type 2 connector, which is the most common connector type for EVs in the UK.
Installation Requirements for Electric Car Charging Points
Before installing an electric car charging point in your garage, there are several installation requirements that you’ll need to consider.
Firstly, you’ll need to ensure that your garage has the necessary electrical supply. Most charging points require a 16A or 32A circuit, depending on the charging speed you choose. You may need to upgrade your electrical supply if it’s not sufficient.
Secondly, you’ll need to consider the location of the charging point. Ideally, the charging point should be installed close to your Volvo C40’s charging port, and it should be accessible for the charging cable.
Lastly, you’ll need to ensure that the charging point is installed by a qualified electrician. This will ensure that the installation meets all safety requirements and is done correctly.
Costs of Installing an Electric Car Charging Point
The cost of installing an electric car charging point in your garage can vary depending on several factors, such as the charging speed, installation requirements, and location. However, there are several ways to reduce the cost of installation.
The UK government offers a grant of up to £350 towards the cost of installing a home charging point. Additionally, many energy providers offer discounted rates for EV charging, which can help to reduce the ongoing cost of charging your Volvo C40 at home.
Conclusion
Adding an electric car charging point to your garage can be a game-changer for EV drivers. It offers convenience,cost savings, and peace of mind when it comes to range anxiety. If you’re a Volvo C40 owner, it’s important to choose the right charging point for your vehicle and consider the installation requirements and costs.
By installing an electric car charging point in your garage, you can enjoy the convenience of charging your Volvo C40 at home, without needing to visit public charging stations. This means you’ll have the flexibility to charge your car whenever you need it, day or night. Plus, you can save money on charging costs, as many energy providers offer discounted rates for EV charging during off-peak hours.
When choosing a charging point, consider the charging speed and connector type for your Volvo C40, and ensure that the installation is done correctly by a qualified electrician. With these factors in mind, you can make the most out of your electric car ownership experience and enjoy the benefits of having an electric car charging point in your garage.
As more people make the switch to electric vehicles, the demand for electric car charging points will continue to increase. By installing a charging point in your garage, you can not only improve your own EV driving experience but also contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing your carbon footprint.
