How to charge your electric car?
Electricity consumption combined in kWh/100 miles | kWh/100 km: 29.3 | 18.2 (BRABUS), 27 | 16.8 (Premium), 28 | 17.4 (Pro+), 29.3 | 18.1 (Pro),29.1 (WLTP); Combined CO₂ emissions in g/miles | g/km: 0; Electric range (WLTP) in miles | km: 248 | 400 (BRABUS), 273 | 440 (Premium), 260 | 420 (Pro+), 193 | 310 (Pro).⁴
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Here's a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about electric car charging.
You might be curious about the charging process if you are considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV). Charging an EV is easy and convenient. We're here to give you all the essential information.
From understanding the costs and range of electric cars to exploring fast, public and home EV charging options, we've got you covered. Discover the ins and outs of picking the best home charger for your EV, ensuring a seamless charging experience.
Costs of driving and charging your electric car
Compared to traditional fuel-powered cars, electric vehicles are generally cheaper to operate. This is because the cost of electricity is usually lower than gasoline, so you'll save on "fuel" expenses. If you have solar panels, you almost charge your EV for free, harnessing the sun's power.
There are a few things you need to consider regarding charging options. Charging at home using your supplier's electricity rate is usually cheaper than filling up at a public charging station. Public charging stations for EVs can be convenient when you're out and about, but the costs can vary depending on the provider.
Some are free or offer low-cost charging, while others may have a pricing structure based on time or kilowatt-hour usage. And, if you're in a rush and need to hit the road quickly, fast charging is there for you.
Now, let's talk maintenance. One great thing about EVs is that they have fewer moving parts than traditional cars. That means fewer things to wear out or break down. Say goodbye to oil changes, spark plug replacements and transmission servicing. Plus, the regenerative braking system in EVs helps extend the life of your brake pads, so you won't have to replace them as often.
So, in a nutshell, EVs save you money on both "fuel" costs and maintenance. Whether you charge up at home, find a public charging spot or opt for a quick recharge, it's all about finding the best balance for your wallet while enjoying the perks of electric transportation.
How far can electric cars go on one charge?
When it comes to electric vehicles, the range of each model can vary depending on multiple factors. Modern advancements in battery technology have significantly improved the driving range of EVs, allowing drivers to cover greater distances on a single charge. Let's explore the general range capabilities of EVs and how they are transforming how we travel.
EV range is influenced by various factors, and the capacity of an EV battery determines a much energy it can store, directly impacting the driving range. As battery technology continues to evolve, more and more EVs offer ranges that rival or surpass traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Charging infrastructure also plays a vital role in expanding the usability of EVs. The availability of public charging stations and the emergence of fast-charging technology has alleviated range anxiety, making long-distance travel feasible.
Public charging networks continue to grow, providing convenient and accessible charging options for EV owners on the go. Additionally, advancements in home charging solutions have made it easier than ever to charge EVs overnight or during periods of inactivity.
With continuous investment in EV technology, the range capabilities of electric cars are expected to improve further in the future. This will continue to enhance the overall driving experience and make EVs the best choice for drivers worldwide.
With a smart EV, you can expect to drive up to 400 kilometres on a single charge, depending on which smart EV line you choose. The smart Pro+ offers a range of up to 420 kilometres on a single charge. In comparison, the smart Premium extends the range to 440 kilometres. Similarly, the BRABUS provides a range of 400 kilometres.⁵
How to charge your electric car at home
Home EV charging is perhaps the most convenient and affordable way to run a battery-powered car. It allows you to wake up in the morning to a fully charged car, ready to tackle the day ahead.
Plus, charging at home is often more cost-effective as you can take advantage of lower electricity rates, especially during off-peak hours. You only need an electric home charger.
Whether installing it in your garage or outside your house, it works as a dedicated charging point. Embrace the effortless convenience of charging your electric car right at home.
Electric car charging at home with a smart EV is incredibly simple with the smart charge@home Wallbox charging system, powered by ABB E-mobility and offering a charging power of up to 22kW. This system is in the smart store.
All smart home chargers come with Type 2 cables and/or sockets, ensuring compatibility and convenience.
Want to know more? Explore How to charge an EV at home.
How to charge your smart EV in public?
Public charging stations are now widely accessible, offering a reliable solution to charge your EV during your daily activities. Whether running errands, heading into the office or simply taking a break, these stations are conveniently located to provide a reliable solution to power up your EV.
If you're on the move and need to recharge your EV, fast charging stations along motorways quickly are your best bet. These stations offer rapid charging capabilities, allowing you to quickly replenish your battery's charge and continue your journey with minimal interruptions.
smart EVs have an in-car map function that makes finding charging spots easy. It provides a convenient overview of nearby charging stations, ensuring you can easily locate and access them whenever you need to power up. Additionally, various apps and websites are dedicated to helping you find charging stations, further enhancing your charging convenience on the go.
Owning a smart EV means you can access the Hello smart App to monitor the battery level, locate nearby charging stations, and schedule charging times.
Download the app on your smartphone, connect it to your smart EV, and benefit from its features.
The different types of EV plugs and power capabilities
When charging your EV, being familiar with the connector types and their power capabilities is important. In Europe, there are 3 commonly used charging connectors:
Type 01
This is the most widespread connector in Europe and is compatible with most public and home charging points. It supports AC charging, allowing for convenient charging at home or work, and can also handle DC charging when combined with an additional connector.
Type 02
While Type 1 connectors are less common in Europe, some older EV models still use them. Certain public charge points may have built-in Type 1 connections. Still, you can expand your charging options by utilising a Type 1 to Type 2 adapter.
CCS2
CCS (Combined Charging System) is gaining popularity among European EVs. It combines a Type 2 connector for AC charging with an additional DC connector, enabling fast charging capabilities. CCS2 handles high-voltage DC charging, allowing for rapid charging sessions.
Paying for public charging is a straightforward process that offers convenience and flexibility. Most public charging stations have payment options that cater to different preferences. Some public charging stations allow you to pay directly at the station using a credit card or a contactless payment method, making it quick and easy to start charging your EV.
Additionally, various charging networks and mobile apps offer seamless payment solutions, allowing you to access multiple charging stations with a single account. These platforms often provide transparent pricing information, ensuring you know the cost of charging before you begin. With these accessible payment methods, you can easily power up your EV while on the move.
The EV batteries
Most EVs are powered by advanced lithium-ion batteries designed to last several years. The smart EV comes with a battery warranty that guarantees the battery will retain at least 70% of its original capacity for a certain number of years or kilometres.
Additionally, smart EV batteries are recyclable, so when they eventually need to be replaced, they can be recycled and reused in other applications.
With this guide as your companion, you're now ready to drive confidently into tomorrow, today. To kickstart your electric journey, browse and find your own smart
All pictures and illustrations are for information purposes only. Because of the production, color differences of the ordered vehicle or equipments are possible. This means that deviations in the presentation, especially of the exterior and interior colors, cannot be ruled out. Optional extras and special equipments, that are displayed in images, are not automatically part of the offer. Delivered vehicles will be right-hand drive, even if left-hand drive is shown. smart #3 Pro and Pro+ do not include rear side window privacy glass.
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These figures were determined according to the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Fuel consumption figures quoted under WLTP are obtained under specific test conditions and they may not be achieved under 'real world' driving conditions. The figures do not relate to an individual vehicle and they are not a condition of our offer to you but serve solely as a means for comparing vehicle models of a similar type. These figures vary depending on what optional equipment you select. The specified CO₂ emissions only relate to the operation of the vehicle. Any CO₂ emissions generated or avoided when the vehicle is manufactured and supplied to you and the type of energy source are not taken into account when calculating the figures according to WLTP. The electric ranges determined according to the standard WLTP also include the measured range achieved through recuperation (energy recovery during braking). Individual driving style and behavior, speed, acceleration behavior, outside temperature, topography and the use of electric vehicles all influence the actual range and may increase or reduce it in certain circumstances. This means that depending on the driving conditions, the stated figures and the actual figures may differ.
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The charging time of the battery may vary depending on various conditions such as different ambient and battery temperatures, available power and other restrictions (e.g. local legal regulations, technical standards, unbalanced load limits), as well as the use of the remote control function (e.g. remote controlled air conditioning, preheating of the vehicle, etc.). With a 3-phase power supply, you can charge at up to 22 kW and go from 10% to 80% SOC (State of Charge) in just 3 hours under optimal conditions (except with the for smart #1 Pure, Pro, Pro+, smart #3 Pro and Pro +, which is are only available with 7.4 kW a single-phase onboard charger that technically allows for a maximum charging power of 7.4 kW and requires 5.5 hours to do so). With a DC fast charging station, you can even charge at up to 150 kW (smart #1 Pure, Pro and smart #3 Pro: 130 kW) and go from 10% to 80% SOC in 30 minutes under optimal conditions.
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For charging with Alternating Current plugs, smart recommends charging the high-voltage battery at industrial sockets, at public charging stations or at a wallbox. This achieves a higher efficiency and a significantly shorter charging time compared to charging at a household socket.
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The available drive power in battery-powered electric cars depends on various factors, including the duration of the required power, the battery voltage and temperature. As a result of these conditions, the maximum power for the specified acceleration values can be achieved repeatedly but not indefinitely.
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smart offers the convenience of remote control functionality via mobile phones for all vehicle models. Standardised basic functions are included in all offers. Extended connected functions are only available on request and at extra cost. All premium connectivity functions require a paid subscription, including an extended connectivity volume.
The current compatibility of the smart mobile phone app for iOS/Android operating systems can be found in the description of the hello smart app in the respective app store. To be operational, prior registration at id.smart.com is required.
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All interfaces of the vehicle and the app shown as well as all associated elements are still under development. In this respect, the content is solely for the purpose of showing the design and style. The actual functions and content are dependent on the products that ultimately appear on the market.