If you already own a hybrid or electric car, you’re likely aware of the benefits of driving an efficient, sustainable vehicle with lower fuel consumption. However, you should consider installing a home charging point to make the most of your vehicle if you haven’t already.
At SEAT, we provide you with all the information you need to install a charging point at home, from requirements and costs to government grants and relevant regulations across Europe.
Why Should You Install a Home Charging Point?
One of the main advantages of owning a hybrid car is the ability to charge your car at home, allowing you to start each day with a full battery (or tank). Installing a home charging point in your off-street parking not only offers convenience but also optimises the use of your vehicle, enabling you to maximise the benefits of electric energy and reduce fuel consumption.
Furthermore, with the increasing number of electric and hybrid vehicles on the roads across Europe, having a home charging point is becoming more essential to avoid congestion at public charging points and reduce waiting times.
Requirements for Installing a Charging Point
Before proceeding with the installation of a charging point for your hybrid car, it’s important to consider some key requirements:
- Garage space: You must have a private garage or a parking space in a communal garage with access to an electrical outlet.
- Electrical power supply: Ensure that the fuse box in your home is sufficient to handle the additional load of the charging point. If not, you may need to increase the capacity or install a new and dedicated fuse box for your charger. It is highly recommended to add a meter and fuse box specifically for the car charger. This helps prevent overloading and ensures that the charging power remains stable.
- Compliance with regulations: The installation must adhere to the relevant electrical safety regulations applicable in your country or region within Europe.
- Authorisation in communal garages: If you have a parking space in a communal garage, installing a charging point is straightforward but you will need to inform the property owners' association and follow local rules & regulations.
Installation and Charging Costs
The cost of installing a home charging point can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the electrical panel and the parking space or the need to increase the capacity of your fuse box. Across Europe, the average cost of installing a charging point for a hybrid or electric car typically ranges from €800 to €1,500.
What else should you consider besides installation costs? You should also factor in the cost of charging your car, which will depend on your electricity tariff, the battery capacity of your car and how often you use it. As a general reference, fully charging your hybrid car could cost between €1 and €6 per charge, depending on your country. For example, in Spain, off-peak charging costs approximately €0.05/kWh, resulting in a total of around €1, while in other european markets, the price can reach up to €0.299/kWh, leading to a cost of €6 for a full charge.
*The price of kWh depends on the company and the market
Government Grants and Financial Support Across Europe
Many European countries offer government grants and financial support to encourage the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as the installation of home charging points. These schemes typically cover a percentage of the installation costs, often between 50% and 75%, depending on the country and the specific program.
To qualify for these grants, certain conditions must generally be met, such as ensuring the installation is carried out by an authorised company and that the charging point is designated for private use only. You should check with local authorities in your country for the most up-to-date information on available grants.
Installation Process
The installation process for a charging point is relatively straightforward but must be conducted by a licensed professional. Here’s an outline of the basic steps:
- Initial assessment: A technician will evaluate your garage and fuse box to determine the best location for the charging point.
- Choosing the right charging point: There are various types of charging points, ranging from basic models to those with advanced features, such as remote control via an app.
- Installation: A professional will install the charging point at the agreed location and connect it to your home’s fuse box, ensuring all safety regulations are met.
- Testing and commissioning: Once installed, the electrician will conduct tests to ensure everything is working correctly and explain how to use the charging point.
Charging in Communal Garages
If your parking space is in a communal garage, the process for installing a charging point is similar, though with some specific considerations. As mentioned earlier, you must notify the property owners’ association and comply with local regulations.
Convenience and Savings
Installing a home charging point is an investment that will provide long-term savings and convenience, allowing you to make the most of your hybrid or electric car. Explore the benefits of SEAT’s hybrid vehicles and take the next step towards a more sustainable and efficient driving experience.
For more information about how to install a charging point or to find out how much it will cost to charge your vehicle at home, please visit our FAQs or contact us.