The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is underway in India, and with it comes an important question for new and potential EV owners:
Where should I charge my EV — at home or at a public EV charging station?
At VEnergizEV, we believe that knowledge powers change. This blog explores the key differences, advantages, and considerations of home charging vs. public EV charging, so you can choose what’s best for your lifestyle, budget, and driving needs.
Home EV Charging in India?
Pros:- Convenience at Its Best
- Charge overnight while you sleep. No waiting in queues or planning detours.
- Perfect for daily commuting and short drives.
- Cost-Effective Charging
- Residential electricity rates are lower than commercial/public rates.
- Charging at off-peak hours (like late night) can be even cheaper.
- Control & Safety
- You control the environment, charger type, and maintenance.
- Less wear and tear on your vehicle’s charging port due to consistent use.
- Smart Charging Integration
- Smart home EV chargers allow you to monitor usage, schedule charging times, and optimize power consumption.
Cons:
- Initial Setup Cost
- Requires a dedicated EV charger (Level 2 preferred) and installation, which may cost ₹25,000 to ₹75,000.
- Space & Power Load Issues
- Not feasible for all — especially if you live in an apartment with limited parking or power capacity.
Public EV Charging in India?
Pros:
- Faster Charging
- Many public chargers offer DC fast charging, giving you 80% battery in 30–60 minutes.
- Ideal for road trips or when you need a quick top-up.
- Expanding Infrastructure
- India is adding thousands of public chargers across highways, malls, fuel stations, and metro cities.
- Apps like VEnergizEV’s network map make locating chargers easy.
- No Installation Required
- Just plug and pay. No setup or hardware investment needed.
- Ideal for High-Mileage Drivers
- Great for fleet operators, intercity travelers, and people without private parking.
Cons:
- Higher Charging Costs
- Per kWh cost is usually 1.5–2x that of home electricity rates.
- Availability & Wait Time
- Some stations may be busy or non-functional; you may need to wait or drive to another location.
- Inconsistent Charging Speeds
- Inconsistent Charging Speeds.