EV charging guides

ev charging guides

Selecting an electric car that is right for you requires careful comparison of the many electric vehicle models now available – with particular attention required for charging an electric car.

Various electric car models can charge at different slow and rapid speeds depending on what on-board charger has been fitted, with some plug-in hybrids unable to rapid charge. Battery capacities also have a significant influence on charging speeds, with larger EV batteries more likely to require rapid charging.

To help you understand the strengths of each particular EV model, we’ve created a number of electric vehicle charging guides that cover all aspects of charging an electric car, including vehicle range, charging inlets, electric car charging times, charging costs, and how to charge each model.

Click on any of the electric vehicle models below to view its charging guide. Models currently available new are under the respective EV, PHEV (plug-in hybrid), and Van tabs, whilst those models no longer on sale new can be found in the Used tab below.


  • EV
  • PHEV
  • Vans
  • Used
  • Audi e-tron

    audi e-tron ev charging guide

    Audi’s e-tron competes in the premium EV SUV market, taking on the likes of Tesla, Jaguar, and Mercedes Benz. The first pure-EV from Audi provides a range of around 250 miles available on a single charge.

    Audi e-tron GT

    audi e-tron gt ev charging guide

    Audi’s e-tron GT shares many components with the Porsche Taycan, but is set up very differently. The electric grand tourer offers a range of almost 300 miles on a single charge as well as a performance RS model.

    Audi Q4 e-tron

    audi q4 e-tron ev charging guide

    The Audi Q4 e-tron is the starter point to Audi’s all-electric e-tron range. Audi offers the Q4 e-tron with a range of more than 300 miles available, a choice of powertrains, and SUV or Sportback body styles.

    BMW i3

    bmw i3 ev charging guide

    BMW’s i3 is now on its second battery upgrade, which has seen the capacity double since the original i3. Offering a competitive range and sharp driving experience, the i3 is also available as a sportier ‘s’ model.

    BMW i4

    bmw i4 ev charging guide

    The BMW i4 offers buyers an all-electric version of a traditional executive saloon like BMW’s own 3 Series, with no compromise thanks to a 365 mile range. High performance models are available too.

    BMW iX

    bmw ix ev charging guide

    BMW’s iX is a new flagship for the German manufacturer’s electric line-up, with a high-tech interior, and features one of the longest driving ranges on the market with more than 380 miles available on a charge.

    BMW iX3

    bmw ix3 ev charging guide

    BMW’s iX3 is the first electric model from BMW that shares a name and body-style with petrol and diesel versions. A range of 285 miles on a charge competes with Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi rivals.

    Citroen e-Berlingo

    citroen e-berlingo ev charging guide

    Citroen’s e-Berlingo is the French manufacturer’s compact MPV – though electric-only. Featuring a practical interior and sharing parts with other Stellantis brands, the e-Berlingo is an affordable family model.

    Citroen e-C4

    citroen e-c4 ev charging guide

    Citroen’s e-C4 is the French company’s first model in the family-hatchback EV market. With a range of more than 200 miles on a charge, the e-C4 also has a choice of two AC on-board chargers, and ultra-rapid DC charging.

    DS 3 Crossback E-Tense

    ds 3 crossback e-tense ev charging guide

    The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense packs a useful EV powertrain into its compact proportions, with a range of 200 miles available and ultra-rapid charging possible. It shares a platform with models from Vauxhall and Peugeot.

    Fiat 500

    fiat 500 ev charging guide

    Fiat’s 500 sees the Italian manufacturer offer its famous city car with electric power for the first time in the UK. Available with a choice of battery packs, the electric 500 has a range of up to 199 miles on a charge.

    Ford Mustang Mach-E

    ford mustang mach-e ev charging guide

    Ford’s Mustang Mach-E is a hugely important car for the famous American manufacturer. Available with a choice of power and battery sizes, the Mustang Mach-E will have a configuration to match most needs and budgets.

    Honda e

    honda e ev charging guide

    The Honda e is a premium electric supermini, focusing on practical city driving and interior space. Featuring a range of 137 miles on a charge, the Honda e boasts a high-tech interior, and is excellent to drive.

    Hyundai Ioniq Electric

    hyundai ioniq electric ev charging guide

    The Hyundai Ioniq Electric is a practical family car that just happens to be electric. A good range allows for decent long-distance EV-ing, meaning the Ioniq Electric can easily be used as a family workhorse.

    Hyundai Ioniq 5

    hyundai ioniq 5 ev charging guide

    Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 launches a new range of EVs under the Ioniq badge. Based on the 45 concept car, the crossover packs a large range and a choice of power & battery options into a hugely-capable EV.

    Hyundai Kona Electric

    hyundai kona electric ev charging guide

    Hyundai’s Kona Electric is the first model to offer a true long-distance EV range at mass-market prices. Offering a range of 270+ miles in a crossover body, the Kona Electric will charge at ultra-rapid speeds.

    Jaguar I-Pace

    jaguar i-pace ev charging guide

    Jaguar’s I-Pace is one of the most best EVs on the market, offering style, performance, and practicality in a premium package. With a range of around 300 miles, the I-Pace is not just a great EV, but a great car.

    Kia e-Niro

    kia e-niro ev charging guide

    The Kia e-Niro has the sort of long range usually found in premium EVs, but at mass-market money. With a range of more than 280 miles and ample space for a family, the e-Niro will appeal to plenty.

    Kia EV6

    kia ev6 ev charging guide

    The Kia EV6 takes the Korean firm into new territory. A premium crossover EV, the EV6 provides a long range and short charging speeds for true long-distance driving potential.

    Kia Soul EV

    kia soul ev ev charging guide

    The second-generation Kia Soul EV offers an excellent range for mass-market money. A spacious crossover, the Soul EV provides nippy performance alongside a range of around 270 miles on a single charge.

    Lexus UX 300e

    lexus ux 300e ev charging guide

    The Lexus UX 300e is the premium Japanese firm’s first EV – in fact the first from the giant Toyota manufacturing group. The UX 300e combines premium crossover style with a good range and rapid charging capability.

    Mazda MX-30

    mazda mx-30 ev charging guide

    The Mazda MX-30 is the first EV to come along from the Japanese manufacturer. The MX-30 has a focus on driving dynamics and quick charging times to compete in the premium electric crossover market.

    Mercedes Benz EQA

    mercedes benz eqa charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz EQA is the entry point to Mercedes’ all-electric EQ line-up. A range of more than 260 miles on a charge is a strong attribute for the compact premium SUV, with further models along in due course.

    Mercedes Benz EQB

    mercedes benz eqb charging guide

    Mercedes Benz’s EQB is one of the few all-electric seven-seater models available in the UK. The compact SUV is the second smallest model in the line-up and has a range of more than 250 miles on a charge.

    Mercedes Benz EQC

    mercedes benz eqc ev charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz EQC kicks off the all-electric EQ sub-brand for the Stuttgart marque. The EQC has ultra-rapid charging and a range of around 260 miles on a charge to compete in the premium electric SUV market.

    Mercedes Benz EQS

    mercedes benz eqs charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz EQS has come in as the new flagship in Mercedes’ electric line-up, and has one of the longest driving ranges available from any EV, with more than 450 miles possible on a single charge.

    MG5 EV

    mg5 ev charging guide

    The MG5 EV expands the company’s range, adding to the popular ZS crossover. With a range of more than 200 miles on a charge, and an affordable purchase cost, the MG5 EV is one of the few plug-in estates available.

    MG ZS EV

    mg zs ev charging guide

    MG’s ZS EV is based on the ZS crossover, and is the company’s first pure-electric model. A range of more than 160 miles on a charge, plus an affordable purchase cost, and good levels of practicality are sure to draw buyers in.

    Mini Electric

    mini electric ev charging guide

    The Mini Electric is sure to prove a best-seller, combining the famous Mini handling and style with electric power. Although not class-leading, a range of more than 140 miles on a charge will prove plenty for most.

    Nissan e-NV200

    nissan e-nv200 ev charging guide

    The Nissan e-NV200 is rare in the sense that you can buy the EV as either an MPV or van. Extremely practical, the e-NV200 shares the Nissan Leaf’s battery, and is available in a range of seating configurations.

    Nissan Leaf

    nissan leaf ev charging guide

    Nissan’s Leaf is the first EV to make it to second-generation status, bringing with it more range and power. Two models are available – a 40 kWh version with 170 mile range, or Leaf e+ with 240 mile range.

    Peugeot e-208

    peugeot e-208 ev charging guide

    The Peugeot e-208 brings an electric powertrain into the mainstream 208 line-up – and it’s proving popular. Stylish, and with plenty of pace, the Peugeot e-208 will cover 211 miles on a single charge.

    Peugeot e-2008

    peugeot e-2008 ev charging guide

    The Peugeot e-2008 combines two fashionable markets – crossovers and EVs. Practical, nicely designed, and with a range exceeding 200 miles, the Peugeot e-2008 is a great family choice.

    Peugeot e-Rifter

    peugeot e-rifter ev charging guide

    Peugeot’s e-Rifter is a compact van-based MPV, with a range of almost 200 miles on a charge. The all-electric Peugeot features multiple seating options and ultra-rapid charging make for a practical electric workhorse.

    Polestar 2

    polestar 2 electric ev charging guide

    The Polestar 2 is the company’s first pure-EV. Featuring a range of almost 300 miles on a charge and ultra-rapid charging, the model from Volvo’s electrified performance arm is a rival for Tesla’s Model 3 and the Jaguar I-Pace.

    Porsche Taycan

    porsche taycan ev charging guide

    Porsche’s Taycan is the company’s first EV, available in one of four variants, all with a range of over 250 miles. However, it’s USP is the ability to charge faster than anything else in the UK.

    Renault Zoe

    renault zoe ev charging guide

    Renault’s Zoe has received a powertrain upgrade, boosting range and performance. With a class leading range, the Zoe Z.E.50 will cover up to 245 miles on a charge, and CCS rapid charging as an option.

    Skoda CITIGOe iV

    skoda citigoe iv ev charging guide

    Skoda’s CITIGOe iV is the first electric car from the Czech brand. Boasting a low price and good range, the CITIGOe iV is an affordable EV, sharing components with the VW e-up! and Seat Mii Electric.

    Skoda Enyaq iV

    skoda enyaq iv ev charging guide

    The Skoda Enyaq iV is a practical, family-friendly EV, competing with the likes of Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and the VW ID.4. Available with a long range or more affordable shorter-range version, the Enyaq iV is a very Skoda take on EVs.

    Smart EQ fortwo

    smart eq fortwo ev charging guide

    The Smart EQ fortwo range sees both models – coupe and cabrio – available as a pure-EVs. Compact and ideal for urban driving, Smart’s EQ fortwo line-up will cover around 70 miles on a single charge.

    Smart EQ forfour

    smart eq forfour ev charging guide

    Smart’s EQ forfour has the agility of the Smart fortwo, but in a more practical shape with rear doors and seats. Add in an electric range of around 70 miles and it makes for a great urban runabout.

    Tesla Model 3

    tesla model 3 ev charging guide

    Tesla’s Model 3 is the entry-point to the popular EV brand. Despite being smaller and cheaper than the Model S, the Tesla Model 3 still features a long range, quick charging, and plenty of performance.

    Tesla Model S

    tesla model s ev charging guide

    The Tesla Model S is a champion for electric vehicles. Spacious and featuring a minimalist interior, the Model S offers ultra-rapid charging, supercar-baiting performance, and is one of the most famous EVs around.

    Tesla Model X

    tesla model x ev charging guide

    Tesla’s Model X has all the power, performance, and just about all the range of its Model S stablemate, but with added practicality. The spacious SUV is the pick of the practical EVs, and offers a range of seating options.

    Tesla Model Y

    tesla model y ev charging guide

    The Tesla Model Y is a crossover version of the best-selling Model 3, though is also available as a seven-seat model. Multiple versions allow for a huge range and high performance options as with the rest of the Tesla range.

    Vauxhall Combo-e

    vauxhall combo-e ev charging guide

    The Vauxhall Combo-e rounds out a wide-reaching practical electric line-up for the manufacturer, building on the Corsa-e and Mokka-e compact models. With more than 150 miles available on a charge, the Combo-e is an all-electric MPV.

    Vauxhall Corsa-e

    vauxhall corsa-e ev charging guide

    The Vauxhall Corsa-e sees the British brand offer a pure-electric version of the best-selling supermini. Sharing systems with the Peugeot and DS EVs, the Corsa-e features a range of more than 200 miles.

    Vauxhall Mokka-e

    vauxhall mokka-e ev charging guide

    The Vauxhall Mokka-e builds on the success of the brand’s first EV – the Corsa-e. Sharing systems with other Vauxhall, Peugeot and DS EVs, the Mokka-e features a range of more than 200 miles.

    Volvo XC40 Recharge

    volvo xc40 recharge ev charging guide

    Volvo’s XC40 Recharge is the company’s first EV, having already added PHEVs across its range. Based on the popular XC40, the pure-electric Recharge version features a range of 249 miles and ultra-rapid charging.

    Volkswagen e-up!

    vw e-up! ev charging guide

    The VW e-up! is a great city car. The nimble and compact VW up! offers a good range at around 160 miles on a charge, and is rapid-charge capable. It shares a platform with the Seat Mii Electric and Skoda CITIGOe iV.

    Volkswagen ID.3

    vw id.3 ev charging guide

    The ID.3 is the first of the German manufacturer’s next generation of electric vehicles. Featuring a spacious interior, the hatchback offers buyers a range of 336 miles on a charge, and ultra-rapid charging capabilities.

    Volkswagen ID.4

    vw id.4 ev charging guide

    The ID.4 is a crucial model for Volkswagen, putting an electric challenger into the big-selling family SUV market. 1st Edition models have a range of 310 miles on a charge, and ultra-rapid charging capabilities.

  • BMW 225xe

    bmw 225xe charging guide

    BMW’s 225xe is the only MPV available as a PHEV, matching interior practicality to plug-in performance. The 225xe is one of a range of BMW electric vehicles, but is the most family-friendly PHEV offered by the German marque.

    BMW 330e

    bmw 330e charging guide

    BMW’s 330e has quickly become one of the best-selling plug-in cars in the UK. Combining the usual class-leading features of the 3 Series with an electric powertrain has produced an excellent PHEV with very low running costs.

    BMW 530e

    bmw 530e charging guide

    BMW’s 530e has rapidly shot up the UK electric vehicle sales charts. The PHEV version of one of the best mid-sized executive saloons around is popular with company car drivers with a good electric range on offer and improved efficiency.

    Hyundai Ioniq PHEV

    hyundai ioniq plug-in charging guide

    Hyundai’s Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is part of the Ioniq electrified trio. A practical and highly-efficient family car, the Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid is a strong choice in a competitive PHEV market, with a good electric range and easy-to-drive nature.

    Mercedes Benz C 350e

    mercedes benz c 350e charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz C 350e combines the executive model’s established attributes with a plug-in powertrain An excellent company car, the C 350e is offered as either a saloon or estate, one of only a few PHEVs available with different body styles.

    Mini Countryman

    mini countryman cooper s e charging guide

    The Mini Countryman Cooper S E blends compact SUV looks with a PHEV powertrain – covering two popular themes with buyers. Sharing PHEV parts with BMW’s 225xe, the Mini Countryman Cooper S E is a good first plug-in model from the brand.

    Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

    mitsubishi outlander phev charging guide

    Mitsubishi’s Outlander PHEV is the UK’s best-selling plug-in car. A hugely popular model, the Outlander PHEV offers a versatile powertrain, lots of space & practicality, and good value for money – both in terms of purchase and running costs.

    Toyota Prius Plug-In

    toyota prius plug-in charging guide

    The Toyota Prius Plug-In is one of the most efficient PHEVs on sale in the UK. Building on the conventional Prius but with greater focus on the electric powertrain, the Prius Plug-In works better when driven as an EV than as a hybrid.

    Volvo XC90 T8

    volvo xc90 t8 twinengine charging guide

    The Volvo XC90 is a popular PHEV, and the stylish SUV hasn’t gained sales with looks alone. Lots of space and refinement combined with a good electric-only range and low running costs have won buyers over – despite plenty of competition.

    VW Golf GTE

    vw golf gte charging guide

    VW’s Golf GTE helps make the Golf line-up one of the most versatile around. Following a range refresh that boosted kit and reduced prices, the popular Golf GTE is able to be driven like an EV or hot-hatch.

  • Citroen e-Dispatch

    citroen e-dispatch charging guide

    Citroen’s e-Dispatch is one of three electric vans from the PSA Group, with an excellent driving range, ultra-rapid charging capabilities, and the option of two battery sizes.

    Mercedes Benz eSprinter

    mercedes benz esprinter charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz eSprinter sees the popular van offered in electric form. Offering a range of more than 80 miles on a charge, the eSprinter can be rapid charged at up to 80 kW.

    Mercedes Benz eVito

    mercedes benz evito charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz eVito is an EV version of the best-selling Vito van. Offering a range of 93 miles on a charge, the eVito is not rapid charge capable, but well suited to local work.

    Nissan e-NV200 van

    nissan e-nv200 van ev charging guide

    One of the earliest entrants into the electric van market, the Nissan e-NV200 is also one of the most popular. It’s a rapid-charge capable zero tailpipe-emission LCV with a good range.

    Peugeot e-Expert

    peugeot e-expert ev charging guide

    Peugeot’s e-Expert is one of three electric vans from the PSA Group, with an excellent driving range, ultra-rapid charging capabilities, and the option of two battery sizes.

    Renault Kangoo Z.E.

    renault kangoo z.e. charging guide

    The Renault Kangoo Z.E. has been around for almost ten years, but with regular updates from the French firm, remains a good small van choice for those that want to go electric.

    Vauxhall Vivaro-e

    vauxhall vivaro-e ev charging guide

    Vauxhall’s Vivaro-e is one of three electric vans from the PSA Group, with an excellent driving range, ultra-rapid charging capabilities, and the option of two battery sizes.

  • Audi A3 e-tron

    audi a3 sportback e-tron charging guide

    Audi’s A3 e-tron is a true premium hatchback – a quality product that combines practicality with comfort and refinement. With its PHEV powertrain, it adds low running costs and the ability to complete shorter trips on electric power alone.

    BMW i3 REX

    bmw i3 rex charging guide

    The BMW i3 REX has gone through a series of updates over the years. Available with two different batteries, and in either standard i3 or sporty i3s spec, the BMW provides an engaging drive – with the ‘safety net’ of an on-board generator to top up the batteries.

    Kia Soul EV Mk I

    kia soul ev mk i ev charging guide

    The first generation Kia Soul EV combins practicality with a stylish crossover design<./br> Alongside a natural suitability for urban driving, motorway performance was a particular strength, with the Kia resisting a plummeting range when driven at higher speeds.

    Mercedes Benz B 250e

    mercedes benz b 250e ev charging guide

    The Mercedes Benz B 250e is a practical MPV with an all-electric powertrain. Spacious inside and able to cover more than 100 miles, the B 250e is not rapid charge capable, but a good option as a cheap-to-run runabout.

    Nissan Leaf MkI

    nissan leaf mki ev charging guide

    The Nissan Leaf is the best-selling pure-EV in the world, and one of the most famous.Available with two different battery sizes – initially 24 kWh and then 30 kWh – the Leaf brought electric motoring to the masses.

    VW e-Golf

    vw e-golf ev charging guide

    VW’s e-Golf has benefited from battery and equipment upgrades, increasing range to 140+ miles. As such it is one of the best EVs around; offering all the attributes of a’normal’ Golf, with the benefits of EV motoring.

    VW e-up! Mk I

    vw e-up! ev charging guide

    Small, light, and electric, the VW e-up! makes a great city car. The nimble and compact VW up! is made better with an electric powertrain, with nippy performance, rapid-charge capabilities, and a range of around 80 miles on a charge.

EV Charging at Home

bmw-charging

Having a charge point at home is generally essential for EV owners. This Zap-Map guide provides info on charging an electric car at home, on suppliers and government grants, and gives an overview of the latest offers and prices.

EV Charging at Work

lease--leaf

Whether you are an EV fleet owner or an employee, charging an electric car at work has many benefits. This Zap-Map guide provides businesses and employees details on the key suppliers, grants and offers available.