If you already own a hybrid or electric car, you’re likely aware of the benefits of driving a more efficient vehicle with lower fuel consumption compared to a car only powered by a traditional internal combustion engine. However, installing a home charger could make your charging more flexible and cheaper to make the most of your vehicle.
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 enough charge for your needs. Installing a home charging point near 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.
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:
- 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.
- 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. In the UK, the cost of installing a charging point for a hybrid or electric car typically starts at £949 (inc. VAT) with standard installation with Ohme.
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.*
*The price of kWh depends on the company and the market
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:
- Home survey: provide pictures and videos of the journey between your consumer unit, meter box and ideal charger location. A technician will evaluate your parking area 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.
- Home requirements: installation can take place in most homes with a private driveway, parking space or garage.
- 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.
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 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 about hybrid cars or contact us.
