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Charging · 6 min read

How to spend less time at a fast charger

Charging speed depends on the car, battery temperature and charge level, not just the charger.

A row of indoor charging points in a well-lit building.

Two cars using the same charger can take very different amounts of time to charge.

Charging slows as the battery fills

A battery generally accepts more power at a low charge level. The car reduces power as the battery fills to protect its cells.

The last part of a charge can therefore take much longer than the first.

Why stopping around 80 percent can save time

Charging often slows substantially above around 80 percent. If your range allows, continuing and making another short stop may be quicker.

Charging fully may still make sense before a long journey with limited charging options.

A cold battery charges more slowly

In winter, the battery may take time to warm up and may not reach its usual charging speed.

If your car supports battery preconditioning, selecting the charger in its navigation system may prepare the battery on the way. Check your car's instructions.

The car sets the limit

The charger offers power, but the car determines how much it accepts. A more powerful charger cannot override the car's limit.

That is why neighbouring cars can show different charging speeds.

Plan your charging stop

  • Arrive with a low battery level, while keeping a safe range margin
  • Precondition the battery if supported
  • Compare short stops with one longer stop
  • Start charging before visiting the shops or taking a break

Indoor charging shelters you from the weather

Indoor chargers keep you out of wind and sleet while you connect the car.

Start with a payment card, QR code or the Current app. An app is not required for card or QR payments.

At Årvoll, wash your car first, then move it to an indoor charger and let it dry while it charges.

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