Electric mobility is no longer a trend, it has become a reality. More and more drivers in Spain are opting for electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles, but there is one question that continues to cause doubt: how to charge an electric car in a simple and safe way.
The answer is much simpler than it seems. Charging an electric car means connecting the vehicle to a charging point using a compatible cable. Once connected, the car and the charger automatically verify that the connection is safe before starting to supply energy to the battery.
This process can be carried out both at home and at public charging points and, although the procedure is practically the same, each option has its own advantages.
In this Activacar guide, we explain how it works, what options you have, and which is the best alternative depending on your situation.
And if You're considering taking the plunge, so it's important to fully understand how the whole process works and what you need to do it correctly. For example, having a professional installation is key to ensuring safety and efficiency, as you can see in this service for Install an electric car charger.
How do you charge an electric car?
Charging an electric car is a very simple process. You just need to connect the vehicle to a compatible charging point using a cable. Before electricity starts flowing, the car and the charger automatically verify that the connection is correct and safe. Only then does the battery start charging.
In practice, the process is always very similar:
- Park the vehicle next to the charging point.
- Open the car’s charging port.
- Connect the cable to the charger and the vehicle.
- Wait for the system to check the connection and start charging.
- Once charging is complete, unplug the cable and continue your journey.
After doing it a couple of times, the process becomes as simple as plugging in any other electrical device.
How to charge an electric car at home
Home charging is the most commonly used option among electric vehicle owners, as it allows you to charge the car overnight in a convenient, cost-effective and safe way.
What do you need to charge an electric car at home?
To charge your electric car at home, you only need:
- A charging point or wallbox.
- An adapted electrical installation.
- A cable compatible with your vehicle.
If you do not have a charger yet, you can find out how to Install an electric car charger at home and learn more about the full installation process.
How to charge an electric car at home step by step
Once the charging point has been installed, the process is very simple:
- Park the car in your garage space.
- Open the vehicle’s charging port.
- Connect the cable to the wallbox.
- Connect the other end to the car.
- Charging will start automatically once the system verifies the connection.
- If you wish, schedule the charging session to take advantage of off-peak hours.
- Once charging is complete, unplug the cable.
For most drivers, this process becomes a daily routine, similar to charging your mobile phone before going to sleep.
Can it be charged with a normal plug?
Yes, although it is not the most recommended option.
A conventional domestic socket, also known as a Schuko socket, can be used to charge an electric car, but its power output is limited and a full charge can take between 18 and 24 hours.
In addition, it is not designed for continuous use, so it is usually reserved for occasional situations.
How to charge an electric car at a public charging point
Although most charging sessions take place at home, the public charging network is essential for long journeys, occasional trips or for those who do not have a private garage.
The process is very similar to using a home charger, although you usually need to identify yourself before starting the charging session.
How does public charging work?
At a public charging point, the process is usually as follows:
- Find a charger compatible with your vehicle.
- Park next to the charging point.
- Open the car’s charging port.
- Connect the cable to the vehicle.
- Activate the session through the operator’s app, an RFID card or, in some cases, directly with a bank card.
- Wait for charging to begin.
- Once charging is complete, stop the session and unplug the cable.
There are currently thousands of public charging points located across:
- Shopping centres.
- Public car parks.
- Hotels.
- Charging stations.
- Service stations.
Public charging is usually faster than home charging, although it also tends to be more expensive, which is why it is normally used for journeys or occasional situations.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Charging time mainly depends on the power of the charger and the capacity of the battery.
| Charging system | Approximate time |
|---|---|
| Domestic plug | 18–24 hours |
| Home charging point (Wallbox) | 5–8 hours |
| Fast charging | 30–60 minutes |
| Super-fast charging | 15–30 minutes |
In everyday use, most drivers charge their vehicle overnight, so charging time is no longer an inconvenience.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at home?
One of the main benefits of an electric vehicle is the savings.
A full charge at home usually costs between 4 and 6 euros, depending on the electricity tariff and the capacity of the battery.
If you also take advantage of off-peak hours, the cost can be even lower.
Compared to traditional fuel, the annual savings can be very significant.
What if you don't have a garage?
Not having a private garage is no longer an obstacle to enjoying an electric vehicle.
Today, there is a growing network of public chargers located across cities, shopping centres and roads.
In addition, if you live in a residential building, you can install a charging point in your parking space.
If this is your case, you can find out how to install a charging point in a communal garage and learn about all the steps required to complete the installation.
Tips for charging an electric car correctly
Although charging an electric car is a very simple process, following a few good practices helps improve efficiency and extend the life of the battery.
- Schedule charging during off-peak hours to reduce electricity costs.
- Try to keep the battery between 20% and 80% in everyday use.
- Reserve fast charging for journeys or occasional needs.
- Always use an approved charging point.
- Regularly check the condition of the cable and connector.
- Avoid forcing the cable when connecting or disconnecting it.
With these small habits, you will achieve more efficient charging and better long-term battery performance.
Conclusion
Learning how to charge an electric car is much simpler than many people imagine.
In everyday life, most drivers charge their vehicle overnight using a home charging point and only use the public charging network for long journeys or occasional trips.
Having the right installation allows you to charge your car faster, more safely and more cost-effectively, making the experience as simple as plugging in any other household appliance.
At Activacar, we support you throughout the entire process, from the initial advice to the installation of the charging point, so you can enjoy convenient, efficient and hassle-free electric mobility.
Frequently asked questions about how to charge an electric car
How do you charge an electric car?
The vehicle is connected to a charging point using a compatible cable. The system automatically verifies that the connection is safe before it starts supplying electricity to the battery.
How to charge an electric car at home?
The most recommended option is to use a wallbox or home charging point. You only need to connect the cable to the charger and the vehicle; charging will start automatically once the connection has been checked.
How do you use a public charger?
You simply need to connect the vehicle, identify yourself through a mobile app, an RFID card or a bank card, depending on the operator, and start the charging session. Once it is complete, unplug the cable and end the session.
Is it safe to charge an electric car at home?
Yes. As long as the installation has been carried out by professionals and an approved charging point is used, charging is completely safe.
Does a plug-in hybrid car charge the same way?
Yes. The process is exactly the same as with a 100% electric car, although charging time is usually shorter because plug-in hybrid vehicles have a smaller battery capacity.
