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How long does it take to charge an electric car? Add to that, what decides the EV charging time? Charging an EV isn't as quick as filling a fuel tank. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to more than 12 hours. The time depends on the size of the battery, the type of charger, and how much charge is already left in the battery. This is exactly where many EV owners feel a little stuck. The numbers vary and the answers are not always simple. Whether you drive a compact electric scooter, a sleek four-wheeler, or you're thinking about getting your first EV, understanding how charging works is a big part of the journey.  

With this blog, let’s dive into how to calculate VE charging time, what affects charging speed, and what it means for you. 

How to calculate EV charging time 

Understanding how long it takes to charge your electric vehicle helps you plan better, whether you are heading out for a long drive or simply charging overnight. The good news is, calculating EV charging time is not complicated. With just a few numbers, you can estimate how long your EV will take to charge.

To estimate EV car charging time, you can use this simple formula:

Charging time (in hours) = Charge needed (kWh) ÷ Charger power output (kW)

This gives you an approximate number of hours required to reach your desired battery level.

For instance, let’s consider an electric car with an 80 kWh battery. The current battery level is 20 percent, and you want to charge it up to 80 percent.

  1. Calculate charge needed: 
    80% – 20% = 60% 
    80 kWh × 0.6 = 48 kWh

  2. Charging with a Level 2 charger rated at 7.68 kW: 
    48 ÷ 7.68 = approximately 6.25 hours

This is your estimated charging time for EV using this charger setup.

Factoring in charging efficiency 

Charging is not always 100 percent efficient. Some power is lost in the form of heat or during energy conversion. A good estimate is around 90 percent efficiency.

Adjusted formula: 
Charging Time = Charge Needed ÷ (Charger Power × 0.9) 
Using the same example: 
48 ÷ (7.68 × 0.9) = approximately 6.9 hours

This gives you a more realistic idea of your EV battery charging time.

Using an EV charging time calculator

If you do not want to calculate manually, you can use an EV charging time calculator on e-Amrit by NITI Aayog. To use it, simply enter details like battery capacity (in kWh), current battery level, target battery level, charging power (in kW), and efficiency, if available. The calculator will then give you an estimated time to charge EV under your selected conditions. These tools are useful if you are planning road trips or evaluating different chargers for home or office use.

 

EV charging in progress with cable being plugged into the vehicle

How long does it take to charge an electric car at a charging station?  

Understanding how long it takes to charge your electric vehicle is one of the most common questions among EV users. Charging times vary depending on where you plug in, the charger’s power output, and your vehicle’s battery size. At home, using a standard 15-amp socket, a full charge can take anywhere from 8 to 15 hours, making overnight charging a convenient option for daily use. Public charging stations often provide faster options. Level 2 chargers, typically found in shopping centers or workplaces, can recharge your car in 4 to 8 hours, while DC fast chargers at highway stations can deliver an 80% charge in as little as 30 to 60 minutes.

Many EV drivers also use top-up charging during the day to maintain battery levels between longer trips. This flexible approach allows you to extend your range without waiting for a full charge. Knowing the right charging method for your needs and understanding different charging speeds can help you plan trips efficiently and make the most of your EV’s capabilities.

Time to charge different EVs in India: A comparison

Whether you ride a zippy two-wheeler, drive a city-friendly four-wheeler, or manage a fleet, charging times can vary quite a bit. Understanding EV charging time in India is crucial to make the most of your vehicle. Charging times can vary widely depending on the vehicle type, battery capacity, and charger power. This EV charging time comparison will help you find the right charger and set realistic expectations for charging your EV in everyday Indian conditions. 

To help you understand EV charging time in India, here’s a simple breakdown of how long it typically takes to power up different types of EVs in India, at home or on the go.

 

 

EV Category

 

 

 

 

Approx. Battery Size (kWh) 

 

 

 

 

Home Charging Time (AC, 2.3–7.2 kW)

 

 

 

 

Fast Charging Time (DC, 30–150+ kW) 

 

 

 

 

Real-World Examples

 

 

 

 

Two-wheelers 

 

 

 

 

2.5 – 4

 

 

 

 

4 – 6 hours 

 

 

 

 

60 – 75 km range added in 15 minutes (select networks)

 

 

 

 

Ola S1, Ather 450X 

 

 

 

 

Three-wheelers

 

 

 

 

6 – 9 

 

 

 

 

3.5 – 5 hours

 

 

 

 

0 – 100% in 15 – 30 minutes (rapid DC charging) 

 

 

 

 

Mahindra Treo, Bajaj RE EV

 

 

 

 

Four-wheelers (Mid-Range) 

 

 

 

 

25 – 45

 

 

 

 

6 – 15 hours 

 

 

 

 

0 – 80% in 50 – 65 minutes

 

 

 

 

Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV 

 

 

 

 

Four-wheelers (Premium)

 

 

 

 

60 – 110+ 

 

 

 

 

5 – 8 hours (with 11–22 kW wall box)

 

 

 

 

10 – 80% in 30 – 45 minutes 

 

 

 

 

Jaguar I-PACE, Mercedes EQC

 

 

 

 

Commercial EVs / Fleets 

 

 

 

 

30 – 75+

 

 

 

 

6 – 12 hours 

 

 

 

 

20 – 80% in 20 – 60 minutes

 

 

 

 

Tata Ace EV, Ashok Leyland eComet 

 

 

What are the factors affecting EV charging time in India? 

If you’re wondering why the EV charging time for your vehicle sometimes varies or why some EVs seem to charge quicker than others, it’s because several things come into play. Did you know not performing proper maintenance of your EV battery can reduce its lifespan?

Knowing these factors can help you plan your charging stops better and avoid surprises on the road.

1. Battery size matters

Think of your EV’s battery like a bucket, the bigger the bucket, the longer it takes to fill. Larger batteries (measured in kilowatt-hours or kWh) store more power but also need more time to charge fully. So, if you have a vehicle with a big battery, expect a longer EV car charging time compared to smaller batteries.

2. State of charge

If you plug in when your battery is nearly empty, it will take longer to charge than topping up when it’s half full. Also, batteries slow down charging after about 80 percent to protect themselves, so charging from 80 percent to 100 percent can take quite a bit longer than the earlier stages.

3. Vehicle’s maximum charging capacity

Your EV can only charge as fast as its built-in system allows. For example, if your car can handle charging at 7 kW max, then using a charger with 22 kW won’t speed things up. The car’s max charging rate limits how fast power goes in, so knowing this helps when using a charging time calculator EV or estimating EV charging time.

4. Charging station’s power output

Not all chargers are the same. Slow chargers like home chargers deliver less power, while fast public chargers can deliver a lot more. But your charging speed depends on the lower number between your vehicle’s max rate and the charger’s power. So, even if the station offers 50 kW but your car accepts only 7 kW, your EV battery charging time will be limited by your car.

5. Weather and temperature

In India, the weather varies a lot, from cold winters in the north to hot summers in most parts. Batteries work best between 20°C and 25°C. If it’s too cold or too hot, the battery management system slows charging to protect the battery. So, charging times can be longer in extreme heat or cold.

6. Multiple vehicles charging on one circuit (Load sharing)

In places with many chargers connected to the same power source, like apartment complexes or offices, the available power gets shared between all charging vehicles. This can slow down the charging speed for everyone if many cars charge at once.

7. Battery protection settings and age

Most EVs have smart systems that limit charging beyond 80 percent or keep the battery above 20 percent to keep it healthy for a long time. Following these settings may save battery life but might slightly increase charging time for EV. Also, older batteries tend to charge slower because they can’t accept power as efficiently as new ones.

8. Using heating or cooling systems while charging

Running air conditioning or heating while charging uses some power, which means less energy goes into the battery. So, if you’re using your car’s climate control during charging, your charging time of EV might increase a bit.

9. Battery composition and technology

Not all EV batteries are the same. Some use lithium-ion, others lithium iron phosphate (LFP). These differences affect how fast batteries can safely charge. For example, LFP batteries often handle fast charging better without overheating, which can reduce overall EV charging time.

10. Electrical grid stability and power supply

In many parts of India, electricity supply can be unstable or limited during peak hours. If the grid can’t provide steady power to a charging station, the station may reduce charging speed to avoid overloads. So sometimes your EV car charging time depends on how stable and strong the local power supply is.

11. Cable and connector quality

The quality and condition of charging cables and connectors also matter. Damaged or low-quality cables can restrict charging speed and even cause safety issues. Always use certified cables and keep connectors clean for best charging performance.

12. Software and firmware updates

Many EVs get updates that improve charging efficiency or battery management. If your car’s software is outdated, it might not charge as quickly as it could. Regular updates help ensure optimal EV charging time and battery health.

When you use an EV charging time calculator, knowing your battery size, charger power, and the current state of charge makes your estimate more accurate. Also, if you’re planning a trip or charging stop in India, considering weather and load sharing can save you time and frustration.

EV Charger Types in India: Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging Explained

Not all EV chargers are the same. Some are ideal for overnight charging at home, while others can power up your car during a quick chai break. In India, EV chargers are broadly classified into three levels based on how fast they charge your vehicle:

Level 1 charger (Slow charging)

This is the most basic form of EV charging. It uses the same 15A, 230V plug you use for a geyser or washing machine. The power output is usually between 2 to 3.5 kW.

- Suitable for overnight charging at home

 - Takes 8 to 12 hours to fully charge an EV

 - Ideal for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)

 - Convenient but slow, best for daily top-ups or low-usage vehicles

 - Common in homes across Indian cities like Pune, Jaipur, and Kochi, where overnight charging is the norm.

Level 2 charger (Fast charging)

Level 2 chargers are more powerful and much faster than Level 1. These operate between 7 and 22 kW using 240V AC.

 - Can fully charge most EVs in 3 to 6 hours

 - PHEVs can be charged in just 1 to 2 hours

 - Common at public parking areas, malls, office buildings, and even homes with dedicated wall-mounted units

 - Ideal for users with higher daily driving range

 - Widely installed in metro cities like Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, and Mumbai. Popular locations include DLF Cyber Hub in Gurugram, Phoenix Marketcity in Mumbai, and office complexes like Manyata Tech Park in Bengaluru.

Level 3 charger (Rapid charging or DC fast charging)

These are high-speed chargers using direct current (DC), usually delivering between 50 kW and 350 kW. They bypass the vehicle’s onboard AC-to-DC converter and deliver power directly to the battery.

 - Charges up to 80 percent in 20 to 60 minutes, depending on battery size and charger output

 - Mostly found on highways, petrol pumps, or commercial EV charging station franchises

 - Not typically installed at homes due to their high voltage requirements and cost

 - Essential for long-distance drivers or fleet vehicles that can’t afford downtime

 - Key locations include highway toll plazas like the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, Reliance petrol pumps with EV charging in Gujarat and Maharashtra, and commercial charging hubs in cities such as Hyderabad and Chennai.

Each type of charger has a role to play depending on your driving habits, your vehicle, and where you plan to charge it. If you mostly drive within city limits, a Level 1 or Level 2 charger might work perfectly. But if you're frequently taking longer trips, or if you operate a fleet, DC fast charging can save you significant time.

Understanding charger types helps you better plan your routes, estimate EV charging time more accurately, and pick the right setup for your home or business.

 

A comparison of different EV chargers by speed

 

 

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 

 

 

 

Government Guidelines and Standards for EV charging in India

To make EV adoption easier across India, the Ministry of Power released revised guidelines for EV charging infrastructure on 14th January 2022. Here’s what you need to know:

 - Setting up a public EV charger does not require a license, as long as it follows safety and technical standards

 - There should be at least one public charging station every 3 km by 3 km in cities and every 25 km on highways

 - Fast chargers (DC) are recommended every 100 km along major roads

 - Electricity tariffs for public charging are capped at affordable levels to encourage more users

 - Public charging points must support digital payments and provide discounts during solar power generation hours

 - These rules are designed to make charging stations more accessible, reliable, and affordable for all types of EV users.

 

EV charging station by Tata Power EZ Charge

Charging your car the right way

Maintaining your EV battery properly is key to ensuring its long-term performance and lifespan. For example, avoid frequently charging your battery to 100% as keeping it charged between 20% and 80% helps reduce battery degradation and improves efficiency. Parking your vehicle in the shade or a covered area protects the battery from extreme heat, which can accelerate wear. Additionally, avoid letting the battery fully drain as deep discharges may shorten its life. Using compatible chargers and following manufacturer guidelines further helps maintain battery health. By practicing these tips, you can maximize your EV’s range and overall reliability. 

Choosing the right charger and service provider is just as important. The quality of the equipment, adherence to safety standards, and the availability of a reliable charging network can make a big difference. A trusted charging partner ensures faster, safer, and more convenient charging with minimal risks. 

Tata Power’s EZ CHARGE: Powering India’s EV revolution

When it comes to EV charging, Tata Power’s EZ CHARGE is a clear leader with India’s largest and most reliable EV charging network. Here’s why EZ CHARGE stands out:

Drive freely across India 

With over 5,500 EV charging points nationwide, including more than 3,000 Tata Power stations in 620+ cities and towns, you are never far from a charging station. This extensive network also supports 1.2 lakh+ home EV chargers and 1,200+ electric bus charging points so range anxiety stays away.

All-weather durability 

EZ CHARGE stations are built using high-grade, corrosion-resistant materials designed to withstand rain, dust, snow, and extreme temperatures. You can charge confidently regardless of the weather conditions.

Nationwide network of chargers 

Tata Power connects power and charging infrastructure across cities, homes, workplaces, and highways. Whether you are charging at home, on a public stop, or managing electric bus fleets, EZ CHARGE meets the needs of every EV owner.

The trusted tata legacy 

With over 100 years of innovation and trust, Tata Power is a pioneer in the EV charging industry. Their commitment to quality ensures unmatched reliability and safety in every charger installed.

Effortless tap and charge 

EZ CHARGE card uses RFID technology for seamless charging. Simply tap your card, set your preferences once, and enjoy hassle-free charging every time.

Versatile charging solutions 

From fast charging stations on highways to home chargers and e-bus fleets, Tata Power offers a full range of charging options:

 - 50/60 kW DC Chargers

 - 240V AC Chargers

  - 30 kW DC Fleet Chargers

 - Specialized e-Bus Chargers

 - Custom solutions for every need

Whether you need a charging setup for your home, office, fleet, or a large public space, Tata Power designs customized EV charging infrastructure to meet your specific requirements.

Ready to join India’s largest EV charging network and power your EV journey with confidence? 
Get started!

 

Complementing this technological backbone is the development of skilled local talent. The Green Energy Skill Centre launched by Tata Power Skill Development Institute in Delhi trains technicians in solar PV, energy storage, and pumped-hydro systems, ensuring India’s AI workforce speaks the language of power engineering.

By knitting local data, local talent, and open-source tooling, Tata Power aligns with the India AI stack vision while cutting reliance on overseas black-box models.

Bottomline

As electric vehicles become a vital part of the future of mobility, proper battery care and smart charging choices are essential to getting the most out of your EV. Maintaining your battery with thoughtful habits, like avoiding full charges and parking in the shade, combined with using trusted charging networks, ensures your vehicle remains reliable and efficient for years to come. Tata Power’s EZ CHARGE offers a comprehensive, dependable charging infrastructure backed by decades of experience, making it easier than ever to keep your EV powered wherever you go. Choose wisely, charge confidently, and drive into a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

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.

 

EVgo chargers vary from 50 kW to 350 kW. Charging time ranges from 15 minutes (for an 80% charge on a high-power charger) to about an hour depending on the vehicle and charger.

 

EVs with larger batteries and support for high-power DC fast charging, like the BMW iX and Tesla Model 3, charge the fastest, reaching 80% in 20 to 40 minutes.

 

A fully charged EV typically lasts between 150 to 700 kilometers depending on battery capacity, driving conditions, and vehicle efficiency.

 

The Tata Nexon EV Max offers an estimated range close to 437 km, but no widely available EV in India currently offers a 700 km range.

 

A 120 kW DC fast charger can charge an EV from 10% to 80% in roughly 20 to 40 minutes depending on the vehicle’s battery size and charging capacity.

 

Charging time (hours) = Battery capacity (kWh) ÷ Charger power (kW) × Efficiency factor (usually 0.85 to 1).

 

Home charging with a Level 2 charger (7-22 kW) typically takes 5 to 12 hours for a full charge depending on battery size.

 

Top up charging means adding small amounts of charge regularly instead of fully charging from empty, which helps maintain battery health.

 

The BMW iX and Mercedes EQC charge fastest in India with high-power onboard chargers and fast DC charging support.

 

Using higher power DC fast chargers and vehicles with fast charging compatibility reduces EV charging time the most.

 

Daily DC fast charging is not recommended as it can degrade battery health over time; it’s best used occasionally or on long trips.

 

 

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V household outlet and provides the slowest charge, typically adding about 5 km of range per hour.

 

Level 2 chargers run on 240V and deliver 7 to 22 kW, charging most EVs fully in 4 to 12 hours.

 

In India, DC fast charging refers to charging stations delivering 50 kW or more power directly to the battery, enabling rapid charging compared to AC chargers.

*Details have been retrieved from reliable sources, the details are subject to change and for current information the original source is to be referred to, and the content related to government subsidies in the blog are for informative purpose only.