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Charging an EV

Top Charging Tips

TOP CHARGING TIPS FROM REAL EV DRIVERS

Our team doesn’t just rent EVs, we drive them too. This page brings together the best tips from Europcar staff who live with electric vehicles every day. From charging smarter to planning better, these real-world insights are here to help you get the most out of your EV rental — with less stress and more confidence on the road.

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There’s an app for that

Downloading a Charging app is a great way to boost your confidence and give you greater peace of mind when it comes to charging. Here at Europcar we’re big fans of Zapmap, which lets you search for nearby charging points, plan your journeys, estimate battery usage and also lets you pay for charging.

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Don’t be a space invader

EV charging points should only ever be used for charging plug-in vehicles. Hardly rocket science we know, but you’ll be amazed how many ICE and non-plug-in hybrid owners take up these valuable spots.

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Keep your bills in check

It goes without saying that if you’re charging your EV at home your electricity bills will rise. If switching electricity tariffs is possible, we recommend shopping around to find a ‘smart off-peak’ one that will help keep your bills down when topping up overnight.

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Know when to stop

Not only is topping up to 100% in public a little selfish, it’s not a great use of your time as the last 10% takes much longer to charge. Plus you’ll not get the most out of regenerative braking, which is why most manufacturers suggest aiming for around 80%.

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Little and often

Charge when you stop, don’t stop to charge; charging should be incorporated into your daily lifestyle without having to go out of your way to charge. Think about charging little and often so you don’t always have to worry about finding a rapid charger for instant top ups. Wherever you’re going, look for car parks with chargers available (whether slow, fast or rapid). For example, if you’re doing the big food shop, going to the cinema/gym etc these are all perfect opportunities to charge.

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Hands off other EVs

While recent design updates make it almost impossible to do, never unplug another EV, or cancel a charge while it’s charging. It’s the height of poor charging etiquette.

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Keep things moving

As tempting as it may in a busy car park, only take up a charging bay if you’re actually charging. And as soon as you’re done, it’s good form to move to another space. That’s especially the case with rapid chargers, which are designed for very short bursts. If you overstay your welcome, you may be charged a penalty fee too!

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Work as a team

If your workplace has charging bays, remember to pop out the office and free them up for a colleague once you’re fully powered up. It’ll make for less awkward stares in the shared kitchen.


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Stay charged wherever you go

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Europcar recommends Zapmap to search for EV charge points and plan your EV journeys

With the widest choice of charging options in the UK, Zapmap gives you access to an inspiring community of EV drivers – and provides peace of mind when out and about in your EV.

Download the app

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