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Time to charge and EV depends on battery size and charger speed
Introduction
Remember a time when users of electric vehicles were “early adopters”? Gone are those days. EVs are part of everyday life; commuters use them to go to work, parents use them for school drop-offs, and they’re even being used for delivery fleets. As of late 2025, India has over 29,000 public electric vehicle charging stations operational across the country.
However, the question that everyone considering buying an EV or upgrading their EV asks is: how long does it actually take to charge an electric car?
This piece breaks that down in practical terms, without jargon. Home charging, public charging, and realistic expectations for EV users in India today.
Charging at home vs charging at public stations
Home charging and public charging have different roles. Neither one replaces the other.
Charging at home: When you charge your electric vehicle at home, there is no doubt that it is slow and steady. However, the best part is that it is predictable. Most EV owners just charge overnight. Depending on the vehicle, type of charger, and battery size, it is possible to take anywhere between 6 to 15 hours. If you happen to commute daily in your car, home charging is a great option for you.
Charging at public stations: If your need of the hour is speed and flexibility, you can use public chargers. They are designed for quick stops and are not suitable for extended periods of time. Your EV can go from low charge to around 80% in under an hour. If you’re an EV owner who happens to take the highway, or is often in for a long commute, or even if home charging is somehow not an option for you, this is definitely an ideal option.
Charging times, however, vary by vehicle model, battery size, and charger availability.
In reality, most EV owners use a mix of both methods. Home charging for everyday needs and public charging when the day goes off track.
| Charger level | Power output | Charging time | Common locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Slow) | Up to 3.5 kW (AC) | 8 to 12 hours for a full charge | Homes using a regular 15A socket |
| Level 2 (Fast) | 7 to 22 kW (AC) | 3 to 6 hours for a full EV, 1 to 2 hours for PHEVs | Homes (with wall box), offices, malls, public areas |
| Level 3 (Rapid) | 50 kW and above (DC) | 20 to 60 minutes for up to 80 percent charge | Highways, fleet depots, fuel stations |
Bottomline
Charging an electric car isn’t about waiting around. It’s about fitting charging into your day. Whether at home overnight or during short breaks on the road, charging should feel like a natural part of your routine.
Day by day, our country’s EV infrastructure is growing, making it easier for EV owners to manage their charging experience. People don’t want to spend their day preoccupied with the logistics of how to charge their car. With home charging for daily use and fast chargers for longer trips, managing your EV’s battery can be an effortless experience.
So, set your charging rhythm, and once habits fall into place, it will feel just like, or even easier than, refuelling a gasoline car.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog has been compiled from multiple sources, including official company websites and other publicly available open-source platforms, believed to be reliable at the time of publication. However, such information may change over time, may not always reflect the most current developments, and may become outdated.
This content is intended solely for general informational purposes and should not be construed as professional, technical, financial, or legal advice. Tata Power does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented and shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this content.
Readers are advised to independently verify information from relevant official sources and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the content of this blog.
Frequently asked questions
The frequently asked questions section is a reliable source for unlocking answers to some of the most crucial inquiries. Please refer to this section for any queries you may have.
- FAQ
If you are wondering how long it takes A full charge of your EV vehicle can take between 6 to 15 hours at home, or around 30 to 60 minutes at a DC fast charger, depending on the vehicle and charger type.
Yes, you can charge your vehicle overnight at home, and it is commonly used for daily driving needs.
Occasional fast charging is fine. Regular reliance on slow or moderate charging helps support the long-term battery health of your EV.
Home charging is generally the more cost-effective alternative, while public fast charging offers speed and convenience when needed.
Sources
1. Your ultimate EV charging guide: How and when to charge your EV
2. Amendments in Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL - 2016) for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
3. Standards and Specifications – E Amrit (Govt. of India)
4. Electric Car Charging Time and Charger Types: A Detailed Guide
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