How to Charge an Electric Car: Easy Guide
3 apr 2025
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Switching to an electric car is easier than it seems. Charging at home, at work, or on a public charging station opens up a range of flexible options. Forget queuing at the gas station—just plug in and go. But how exactly does it work, and what choices do you have? In this article, we’ll walk you through the different charging methods, the costs involved, and best practices to optimize your spending. You’ll see how fast-charging networks like Electra are already transforming the way we travel.
Different Ways to Charge an Electric Car
Charging at Home: The Most Cost-Effective Solution
Home charging is one of the most practical and economical ways to power your EV. You can choose between three main setups:
Reinforced socket: Ideal for occasional use or backup. Power is limited (around 3.7 kW), so a full charge can take 10 hours or more, depending on battery size.
Wallbox: A faster and more efficient option, delivering between 7 kW and 22 kW. This allows for a full charge in 4 to 8 hours.
Off-peak charging: Subscribe to a time-of-use electricity plan and benefit from reduced nighttime rates. On average, a full charge costs just €2–3, depending on your battery capacity and the price per kWh.
By choosing the right solution for your needs, you save time, money, and stress.
Public Charging Stations: How Do They Work?
Public chargers are a great alternative, especially if you can’t install a wallbox at home. You’ll find them:
On city streets: Accessible chargers, typically between 7 kW and 22 kW.
In parking lots or shopping centers: Sometimes free or discounted for customers.
At semi-public venues: Hotels, restaurants, or supermarkets often have chargers for guests.
There are two main technologies:
AC chargers (alternating current): Moderate power (up to 22 kW), ideal for longer stops like shopping.
DC chargers (direct current): High-speed charging from 50 kW and up, perfect when you're in a hurry.
Access is simple: use an RFID card, mobile app, or contactless payment.
Ultra-Fast Charging on Highways: Perfect for Long Trips
Long-distance travel is no longer a challenge. Ultra-fast charging stations can deliver 150 kW, 300 kW, or even more. That means hundreds of kilometers of range in just 20–30 minutes.
At Electra, our high-power network is expanding along major highways, so drivers can plan stops stress-free. Plug in, authenticate your session via the app or card, and you’re charging.
Compared to a 3.7 kW home socket, the time savings are massive. On the road, speed is essential—and high-power charging delivers just that. You’ll be back on your journey almost as quickly as with a traditional fuel stop, but far more peacefully.
How to Charge an Electric Car: Step by Step
Equipment and Key Steps
You’ll need a compatible cable and connector:
Type 2: The European standard for AC charging.
CCS Combo: The most common connector for fast DC charging in Europe.
CHAdeMO: Mostly for older Asian models, but still supported by some chargers.
The charging steps:
Plug the cable into your car and the station.
Authenticate the session (app, RFID card, or payment).
Start the charge.
Monitor progress on the station screen or via the app.
Stop the session and unplug safely.
It becomes second nature after a few tries.
What Does It Cost to Charge?
Prices vary depending on where and how you charge:
Home charging: Around €0.15–€0.20 per kWh during off-peak hours, or roughly €2–€3 per 100 km depending on your vehicle’s efficiency.
Public chargers: Range from €0.25 to €0.55 per kWh. Some providers bill by the minute, others by kWh or via monthly subscriptions.
Electra: Transparent pricing, clearly displayed per kWh (starting at €0.29/kWh), with no hidden fees.
Even when using public chargers, electric vehicles remain cheaper to run than petrol or diesel ones—especially with lower maintenance costs.
Tips to Optimize Charging
When and Where to Charge to Save Money
To cut your energy bill, charge at home during off-peak hours—usually overnight. You can program your EV to start charging only during reduced-rate periods.
While on the move, look out for free public chargers in malls or hotels, or take advantage of discounted rates through charging networks.
Slow charging is economical when you have time to park. Fast charging is more expensive, but perfect for long trips or emergencies. Mixing both lets you balance cost and convenience.
Why Choose Electra for Fast and Reliable Charging?
With Electra, charging is simple. Our ultra-fast network is expanding rapidly across major highways in France and beyond.
Save time: High-power chargers (150 kW, 300 kW…) deliver quick boosts so you’re back on the road fast.
User-friendly app: Locate a station, book a charger, and control your session—all from your smartphone.
Reliable network: Regular maintenance means chargers are available when you need them.
Transparent and fair pricing: Rates clearly displayed per kWh (starting at €0.29/kWh), no hidden fees.
You drive worry-free—Electra takes care of the technical stuff to make your experience smooth.
Bonus Section: Charging Time & Cost Comparison, Practical Checklist
Checklist: Charging Without a Hitch
Check the power level of the charger—make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle’s onboard charger.
Choose the right cable: Type 2 for AC, CCS Combo for DC. Bring an adapter when traveling abroad.
Authenticate your session with the app or card. Some stations accept contactless payments.
Monitor the charge in real time via the app. You’ll be notified when it’s done.
Unplug correctly: Wait until the session ends, then disconnect and store your cable safely.
Useful Resources
Electra website: Find nearby stations and view pricing.
Practical guides: Learn more about EV incentives (ecological bonus, trade-in offers) and wallbox installation.
Charging maps: Platforms like Chargemap or PlugShare list nearly all charging stations in France and Europe.
Conclusion: Making Everyday Electric Mobility Simple
Charging your EV quickly becomes second nature. With options ranging from home wallboxes to public AC chargers and ultra-fast DC stations, there's a solution for every driver. Once you get the hang of the process—plug in, authenticate, charge, disconnect —it’s just as easy as filling up at the pump, but cleaner.
Charging costs are lower than petrol, especially with off-peak home charging. Public stations offer flexibility, and fast-charging networks like Electra are ideal for long trips—delivering 150 kW or more in minutes.
With smart planning, you’ll minimize costs and maximize convenience. Going electric means embracing a greener, more responsible lifestyle. And thanks to ever-expanding infrastructure, there's never been a better time to make the switch.
Ready to plug in? Download the Electra app now to find nearby stations, reserve a charger, and enjoy a seamless EV charging experience. Join a reliable network built to make your life easier—power up with clean energy, stress-free. The road to electric mobility is open. Let’s hit the accelerator.