How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car? (2024 Updated)

Key Takeaways

• Sometimes, electric car owners must use public charging networks to recharge their vehicles. Thus, it is crucial to know how much does it cost to charge an electric car at a public charging station Australia.
• Learn a step-by-step guide on how to calculate EV charging prices regarding home and public charging costs.
• There are two primary factors influencing charging costs. They include electricity rates as well as charging levels and equipment. Scroll down for the information!

1. How To Calculate EVs Charging Costs?

1.1. Home Charging Costs

There are two methods to charge your electric vehicle at home. The first one is to use a regular 10 amp or 15amp AC wall socket, as simple as plugging in your EV the same way you would a laptop or smartphone with a compatible charger.lead. Yet, this option delivers the slowest charging pace since your EV may take up to 18 hours to charge, depending on battery capacity completely. 10 amp charges at approx 15km an hour and a 15amp plug charges at 25 km an hour of charging time

Alternatively, install a dedicated EV wall charger. This home charging option charges your EV up to three times quicker than a normal power outlet. (approx 75-80km and hour)

To calculate the cost of charging an electric car at home, consider the average electricity rates in your area and the size of your EV's battery. For instance, the home EV charging expenses for a Tesla Model 3 with a battery capacity rating of 57.5kWh using Victoria's electricity rates (21.14 c/kWh) are the product of the two factors - $12.16. 

Charging electric vehicles at home. Source: Cnet

To reduce your home charging expenses, remember to charge your EV during off-peak hours when energy rates are cheaper, especially if you're on a time-of-use tariff. Some providers offer free electricity between 11am- 2pm as so much rooftop solar is being generated and they want people to use it. (AGL and OVO)

Many Australian utilities provide lower rates for late-night charges, which can result in considerable savings. Using a smart charger, you may also regulate your energy use by programming it to charge automatically during cheaper times.

2. Public Charging Costs

More than 3,700 public charging stations are accessible around Australia. These public charging facilities are typically Level 2 AC chargers. The public EV charging cost is around $0.425/kWh. Besides, it will cost you between $215 and $319 to charge your small electric vehicle completely. 

You can also use quick charging stations on highways if you are on a road trip. These Level 3 DC fast charging stations, often known as rapid or ultra-rapid stations, offer the quickest charging available in Australia. Yet, the charging costs are typically higher. Charging costs at level 3 public charging stations range from $0.40 to $0.70 per kWh.

For example, if you charge a 60 kWh EV with a Level 2 charger at $0.25 per kWh, a full charge will cost about $15. In contrast, a DC fast charger at $0.55 per kWh would cost around $33.

Public charging costs. Source: Wattlogic

To find affordable public charging options, you can use apps that map nearby charging stations, including their rates and real-time availability. Many charging networks offer memberships or loyalty programs, which can reduce costs, especially for frequent users. 

Charging during off-peak hours or using slower Level 2 chargers can also help lower expenses. Lastly, some locations, like shopping centres or workplaces, offer free or discounted charging, so it’s worth exploring those options when planning your trips.

2. How Much Does It Cost To Charge An Electric Car In Australia?

Public electric car chargers in Australia vary from slower AC chargers with around 6kW-22kW of power to fast 50-250kW DC chargers and even ultra-rapid 350kW chargers. Simply said, the higher the charging rate, the quicker it can charge your electric car - and the more costly the charger will be.

Meanwhile, charging at home, whether through a wall socket or a wall box, normally varies between 2.4kW and 22kW. 

How much to charge an electric car in different states in Australia? Refer to this table for more information:

State	Origin Go Variable rate (c/kWh)	Charge Cost (60kWh battery)
SA	43.62	$26.17
QLD	28.85	$17.31
NSW	34.71	$20.83
ACT	19.88	$11.93
VIC	25.65	$15.39

That’s how much does it cost to charge an electric car. Still, there is no fixed fee for rapid charging in Australia. Charges might vary based on electricity rates as well as charging levels and types of equipment. Continue reading to learn the details!

3. Factors Affecting Charging Costs

3.1. Electricity Rates

Electric vehicle charging costs in Australia in 2024 are primarily impacted by local electricity rates, which can vary greatly by state or territory. Also, electricity costs differ depending on demand, supply, and energy mix.

Regions that rely heavily on renewable energy sources typically have cheaper electricity costs. For example, the average electricity tariff in Tasmania and South Australia, where wind and hydropower play a significant role, is lower than in coal-dependent states such as New South Wales and Queensland. 

Factors affecting charging costs. Source: Green Cars

Compared to public charging, residential charging is often less expensive. Furthermore, many public chargers charge a flat rate or use time-based pricing, which adds to the overall cost for EV owners.

3.2. Charging Levels and Equipment

Charging levels and types of equipment also affect “How much does it cost to charge an electric car?” There are 3 charging options available:

• Level 1: You may install a level 1 home charger as either a specialised or standard wall socket charger. The pricing cost ranges from $0.25c to $.040c per kWh at off peak times. Adn super off peak can be as low as $0.08c.
• Level 2: These are typically public chargers with AC specifications. Public EV charging costs approximately $0.25 per kWh. If you have a bigger EV, you should pay between $30 and $36 to charge it completely at a public EV charger.
• Level 3 DC fast charging: These are public DC chargers with power output ranging from 25 to 350 kWh. Charging costs range from $0.40 to $0.70 per kWh.

4.. Frequently Asked Questions

4.1. Do electric cars charge to 100%?

Electric vehicles may technically charge to 100%. But it is generally not suggested to do so regularly, particularly for everyday driving. This is because charging the battery to full capacity and leaving it there might result in faster battery deterioration over time.

Most EV manufacturers recommend charging up to 80-90% to ensure the battery's long-term health. Charging to 100% is usually essential when you need the most range for long trips. 

4.2. What is the cheapest way to charge EVs?

If you charge your electric car at home, a slow charge is typically the least expensive alternative because rapid chargers charge significantly more per unit of energy. Slow-charging points are also less costly to install than fast-charging systems in terms of equipment and wiring.

4.3. How long does an EV battery last?

An electric vehicle battery normally lasts from 10 to 20 years. However, multiple factors can influence that longevity. Battery chemistry, driving patterns, weather circumstances, and maintenance procedures all influence EV battery life. Fortunately, proper maintenance, like avoiding high temperatures and excessive fast charging, can help extend battery life.