How much does it cost to charge an EV in Europe?

The cost of charging an EV in Europe varies by country, provider, and charging speed. Some general price brackets to bear in mind are: Rapid charging (DC fast chargers) can cost between €0.40–€0.80 per kWh Public AC charging is often cheaper, ranging from €0.20–€0.50 per kWh Tesla Superchargers cost around €0.30–€0.50 per kWh, but rates vary H3 - What documents do I need to drive my EV abroad? When taking your EV to Europe, you’ll need:A full UK driving licence (valid and in date), or a paper license with an international driving permit (IDP) V5C logbook (if you own the car) or a VE103 form (if it's a leased or hired vehicle) Insurance documents (showing that your policy covers driving in Europe) UK sticker

Do I need special EV insurance for Europe?

Many UK car insurance policies include at least third-party cover for driving in Europe, but it’s always important to check before setting off. Some providers offer extended EV-specific cover, such as breakdown assistance that includes flat batteries, access to emergency charging, or cover for charging cables and adapters.

What are the legal EV driving requirements in France?

If you're driving a UK-registered EV in France, your car will need: A ‘UK’ sticker (this has replaced the older ‘GB’ sticker) Crit’Air sticker, if travelling in a city with a low-emission zone Reflective jackets, a warning triangle, and headlamp beam deflectors Snow chains, if driving through designated ‘snow zones’

Unbeatable Convenience

A home charging point puts you in full control of when and how you charge your car, making the process seamless and stress-free. Imagine plugging in your EV overnight while you sleep, so it’s fully charged and ready to go when you are. Or charging during the day while you’re catching up on work, spending time with family, or relaxing. Unlike traditional refuelling stops that disrupt your schedule, EV charging happens effortlessly in the background as you go about your normal routine. No more early morning trips to the petrol station or carefully planning long journeys around charging stops. With a home charger, your EV integrates smoothly into your lifestyle, helping you save time and enjoy the unbeatable ease of electric driving. Switching to electric isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about making driving more convenient than ever before.

Dedicated EV chargers are significantly faster than using a standard three-pin plug. A typical 7kW charger can fully charge most EVs overnight.

Charging at home is often much cheaper than using public chargers, which tend to include additional costs to maintain infrastructure.

Home charging points are purpose-built for EVs, handling large energy transfers safely and reducing the risk of overheating or faults compared to standard plugs.

Sustainability Options

Many home chargers are compatible with renewable energy systems like solar panels, letting you charge with green energy for an even smaller environmental footprint.

Boosts Property Value

As more drivers switch to electric, having a private EV charger is increasingly seen as a valuable property feature, potentially increasing the resale value of your home.

1. Make Sure You Have Permission

Generally, installing an EV charging point on your property won’t require any planning permission from your local authority, but there are some cases where you may need to apply to get your charging point installed, such as: If the charging point outlet and casing exceed 0.2 cubic metres. If the charging point will face onto or be within 2m of a public highway. If your property is within an area designated as a scheduled monument. If the charging point will be installed on the curtilage (surrounding land) of a listed building. If you’re a tenant, you’ll need approval from your landlord before installing a charging point. Similarly, if you own a property within a block of flats, you may need consent from the freeholders. Since every property is different, it’s important to research your specific requirements and secure the necessary permissions before proceeding with the installation.

2. Choose Your Charging Point

There’s a wide variety of charging point options on the market, and it’s important to review your options thoroughly before you settle on the EV charger you’re going to install. Some of the key variables you should try to consider include: Charging Rate: Think about how quickly you’d like to charge your vehicle and look for charging points that meet your needs. Keep in mind that the charging rate also depends on your car’s capacity. For example, if your vehicle has an 11kW charging limit, installing a point with a higher output won’t provide any additional benefit. Power Supply: Your home’s power supply plays a big role in determining the maximum charging rate available. In most UK homes, the standard supply can support a charging rate of up to 7kW, which is ideal for overnight charging. Tethered or Untethered: Tethered charging points come with a built-in cable, offering added convenience as you don’t need to connect your own. However, they aren’t compatible with all EVs, so check that your vehicle is suitable. Untethered chargers give you the flexibility to use your own cable, making them a versatile choice. Cost: EV charging points come in a variety of price ranges, typically increasing with their charging capacity. If you’re a landlord or tenant, you might qualify for a government grant that can offset some of the cost, making the installation more affordable.

3. Deciding Where to Install Your Charging Point

The next step is deciding where to install your EV charging point. Typically, an installer from your chosen supplier will visit your home to assess safe and accessible locations for the installation. When choosing the ideal spot, here are a few important factors to keep in mind: The position and direction of your parked car. The location of your car’s charging port (e.g., front, side, or rear). The length of your charging cable or the tethered cable provided with your chosen charging point. The strength of your home’s WiFi signal at the potential installation points, as most charging points require internet connectivity for smart features. The visual impact of the installation, ensuring it complements the aesthetics of your home’s exterior. Taking these considerations into account will help you choose a practical and discreet location for your charger.