The evolution of automobiles from petrol and diesel engines to electric and hybrid power means that the average driver needs to understand a new set of considerations when it comes to caring for their vehicle. In the realm of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the maintenance of the charging system is crucial. This guide focuses on the essentials of managing the electric charging system in UK plug-in hybrid cars, discussing factors like identifying types of chargers, understanding the charging process, finding public charging stations, and maintaining the electric car battery.
Identifying Your Hybrid Car Charging Type
Before embarking on the journey of maintaining your electric charging system, you must first understand the type of charger that your PHEV uses. The UK employs three main types of electric vehicle (EV) chargers: slow, fast, and rapid.
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Slow chargers usually have a power output of up to 3kW. They’re ideal for long overnight charging and can take between 6 to 12 hours to fully charge a hybrid car. Fast chargers have power output ratings between 7kW and 22kW. They can fully recharge most hybrids in 3-4 hours. Lastly, there are rapid chargers. These can charge a hybrid car to 80% in just 20-30 minutes. They come in two types: AC and DC. Most UK plug-in hybrids use the Type 2 charging connector, but it is always wise to check with your vehicle manufacture or manual for exact specifications.
Understanding the Charging Process
Charging a plug-in hybrid vehicle is much like charging your mobile phone. You have to plug in your car into a charging point or station, wait for it to gather enough power, then unplug and go on your way.
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However, the speed at which your hybrid car will charge depends on the power of the charging point and the car’s onboard charger. The size of your vehicle’s battery and its state of charge also play a part. Remember that using a power source with higher current ratings will not harm your battery as your vehicle’s onboard charger will regulate the incoming power.
Finding Public Charging Stations
The UK is well equipped with public charging stations to cater to your plug-in hybrid car’s needs. Public charging can be found at various locations including supermarkets, car parks, and service stations across the UK, with an increasing number installed at motorway service stations to accommodate long distance EV travel.
There are numerous tools and apps like Zap-Map and Plugshare that provide comprehensive and updated maps of all available charging stations in the UK. These tools also provide real-time information about the station’s availability and the connector types they support.
Maintaining the Electric Car Battery
The battery is the heart of your plug-in hybrid vehicle. Therefore, maintaining it is key to ensure the long life and efficient performance of your car. Here are some tips on how to maintain your hybrid car’s battery:
- Regular Charging: Rather than letting the battery deplete completely, regular and consistent charging can extend the life of the battery.
- Mind the Temperature: Batteries are sensitive to high temperatures. Where possible, park your car in the shade or in a garage to prevent overheating.
- Use Manufacturer-Recommended Chargers: Always use the charger recommended by your car’s manufacturer. Not doing so might lead to poor performance or even damage.
- Regular Servicing: Regular servicing is crucial to check the battery’s health. Make sure to get your hybrid car serviced at recommended intervals.
Adapting to Rapid Charging Infrastructure
Rapid chargers are becoming increasingly common in the UK, making long distance travel in your PHEV more feasible. However, you should be aware that while rapid charging is convenient, frequent use can degrade your battery faster over time.
The key to striking a balance is to use rapid chargers for top-ups during long trips, while relying on slower chargers for regular, overnight charging. This will help protect your battery and extend its lifespan.
Remember, understanding your vehicle and the charging infrastructure can help you to get the most out of your plug-in hybrid. Following these guidelines will ensure your PHEV remains in top condition and performs optimally for longer.
Opting for the Best Breakdown Cover for Your Hybrid Car
When you transition to an electric vehicle, it’s not just the charging infrastructure that changes; your breakdown cover needs to adapt too. As a hybrid car owner in the UK, there are specific considerations you should factor in when selecting a breakdown cover plan to ensure you’re fully protected on the road.
Comprehensive Breakdown Cover is advisable for electric car owners. This type of cover generally includes home start services, recovery to any UK destination, onward travel options, and even overnight accommodation if needed. Ideally, your cover should also provide assistance at charging points, as a flat battery is the most common reason for breakdowns in electric vehicles.
Specialised EV Breakdown Services are increasingly common. These services have equipment to quickly charge electric cars at the roadside, reducing the inconvenience of a breakdown. Some providers may also offer transportation to the nearest charging station if required.
Consider the Extras. Some breakdown cover providers may offer additional services beneficial for hybrid cars, such as battery hire, battery health checks, and rapid charging facilities.
Always Compare. Different providers offer various services and cover levels at different prices. Therefore, it’s vital to compare breakdown covers and choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Remember, having a comprehensive breakdown cover provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected if something goes wrong during your journey.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Transportation
The shift from petrol and diesel cars to plug-in hybrids involves adapting to new practices and understanding new technologies. However, the benefits of PHEVs, such as reduced emissions, lower running costs, and the potential for renewable energy use, make the learning curve worthwhile.
This guide aims to equip new and potential PHEV owners with the knowledge required to understand and maintain their vehicle’s electric charging system, from identifying the types of chargers and understanding the charging process to maintaining the battery and seeking the best breakdown cover.
The UK’s well-developed public charging infrastructure, coupled with a variety of tools like Zap-Map and PlugShare, makes finding suitable charging points straightforward. However, adopting best practices for charging, such as regular charging, temperature regulation, using manufacturer-recommended chargers, and opting for slower charging to preserve battery health, will go a long way in maintaining the longevity and performance of your plug-in hybrid.
As we navigate the future of transportation, embracing these new practices and technologies is essential. By understanding how to effectively charge and maintain our electric vehicles, we can ensure that our journey towards a more sustainable future remains both smooth and successful.