Charging FAQ
What ways are there to charge a battery and what are the differences between them?
There are currently two common ways of charging an electric vehicle: one via a rapid charging point, the other via a standard household power socket. Rapid charging points can be found in places such as shopping centres, and are being extended to petrol stations and locations in cities. The advantage of these points is that they draw on a higher charging current than the power available at home.
Is it difficult to charge electric cars?
Charging a Škoda EV is simple and convenient. Most drivers can cover their daily travel needs with overnight charging at home, while a growing network of public and fast charging stations across New Zealand supports longer journeys. Whether you're commuting, running errands or heading away for a weekend road trip, charging an electric vehicle can easily fit into your everyday routine.
How does charging work?
Škoda EVs can be charged using either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) power. AC charging is commonly used at home and is ideal for overnight charging, while DC fast charging is available at public charging stations and provides much faster charging speeds. Because DC power is delivered directly to the battery, it can charge from 10% to 80% in under an hour in many cases. As the battery approaches full capacity, charging speeds naturally slow to help protect battery health and optimise performance.
How does vehicle charging work, step by step?
1. To recharge, you need to have a card or a chip to unlock the charging station. You get the card or chip when you enter into a contract with an energy supplier.
2. Select the appropriate socket according to the instructions on the charger display.
3. Plug the cable into the chosen socket.
4. Charging starts automatically when the cable is connected correctly. The charging time depends on the type of charging station and the capacity you need to charge.
5. After the charging starts, you log out and the socket is locked to prevent the cable from being disconnected during charging.
6. After charging is completed, you log in and unplug the cable. Then you can continue driving.
How long will it take to fully charge my EV?
Generally speaking, the DC charger will charge up to 80% of the battery capacity in less than an hour. The remaining 20% of capacity takes approximately the same time as the first 80%. If you’re unable to access a fast charger, it will take longer to fully charge the car, depending on the battery and the model.
Where can I charge my EV?
You can charge it at home or at a public charging station. If you’d like to charge your new car at home, you should think of installing a smart EV charging unit. If you want to charge in public you can find stations with the help of our Škoda charging map
Can Škoda help me to get a charger for my car?
Yes. Your local Škoda dealer can help you choose a charging solution that suits your vehicle and lifestyle. Based on factors such as your EV model, location and type of home, they can recommend a suitable home charger or charging cable and guide you through the installation process. They can also provide advice on charging options and help you get the most from your electric vehicle.
What is a wallbox?
A wallbox is a home charging unit designed specifically for electric vehicles. It is installed on a wall, usually in a garage or driveway, and allows you to safely and conveniently charge your EV at home. Compared with a standard household socket, a wallbox can provide faster charging speeds and is the preferred solution for regular EV charging.
How do I install a home EV Charger?
Installing a home EV charger is straightforward when arranged through a qualified electrician. Once you've chosen a home charging solution, your local Škoda dealer can provide guidance on the next steps and help connect you with an approved installer. A professionally installed home charger ensures safe, reliable and convenient charging, so your EV is ready whenever you need it.
What are the costs of a home EV Charger?
The cost of a home EV charger will depend on the charging solution you choose and your home's electrical setup. Factors such as charger features, charging speed and installation requirements can influence the overall cost. Your local Škoda dealer can help you find a home charging solution that suits your vehicle, lifestyle and budget, and provide guidance on the installation process
What is smart charging?
Smart charging uses technology to make EV charging more efficient and convenient. It can help optimise when and how your vehicle charges based on factors such as electricity demand, available power and charging schedules. Smart charging can also help you make the most of off peak electricity rates and ensure your vehicle is charged when you need it, while managing energy use within your home.
Will it be possible to charge faster?
The fastest charging is via direct current. This is the current the car needs, so it does not have to convert AC to DC, i.e. charging is faster. The New Zealand charging station network has DC charging stations for fast charging.
When should I charge with AC, and when with DC?
AC and DC charging each have their place, depending on where you're charging and how quickly you need to recharge. AC charging is commonly used at home and many public charging locations, making it ideal for everyday charging and overnight top ups. DC fast charging is typically available at dedicated public charging stations and is best suited for longer journeys, allowing you to recharge your battery more quickly and get back on the road sooner. For most drivers, a combination of home charging and occasional DC fast charging provides a convenient and flexible EV ownership experience.
Is it dangerous if the charging cable gets wet, the vehicle is in a puddle or it is raining?
No. Electric vehicles are designed to be charged safely in a wide range of weather conditions, including rain. Both the vehicle and charging equipment include multiple safety features that help ensure charging only begins once the connection is secure. Whether the charging cable is wet, the vehicle is parked in the rain or standing in a puddle, the charging process remains safe when using approved charging equipment as intended.
What happens if I forget to unplug the plug from the charging station and start driving?
The engine can only be started when the charging cable is removed.
Does the plug need to be removed as soon as the battery has been fully charged?
No, the charger in the vehicle switches itself off at the end of the charging process.
Can I stop charging even if the battery has not finished charging?
Yes, you can interrupt the charging process without damaging the battery. Charging is interrupted when you unlock the vehicle.
Does the battery become damaged if it is charged every day or charged too long?
No, daily charging is not a problem. Charging automatically ends when the battery has finished charging.
If you don’t keep driving until the battery is flat, will this damage it?
No, the battery does not have to be empty to be recharged.
Do I always have to charge the battery to 100% capacity?
No, this is not necessary. Batteries have only a minimal memory effect over their duration, so this is not noticeable in a non-complete charge.
How long can a vehicle be parked without the battery going flat when there are no charging options nearby?
It depends on the outdoor temperature and the battery’s state of charge when the car is parked. If it is full and the outside temperature is low, the car can remain parked for several months.
When is the best time to charge an EV?
We wouldn't say there is a best time to charge an EV, but most people prefer to charge overnight so they have a fully charged vehicle in the morning. Naturally, depending on the charging point, it may take anywhere from one hour to an entire day to fully charge, so you should consider such factors when deciding the best time to charge your EV.
What if my EV battery goes flat?
It's unlikely you'll ever run out of charge unexpectedly. Škoda EVs provide clear information about battery level and remaining driving range, helping you plan your journeys with confidence. If you do find yourself with a depleted battery, roadside assistance and other mobility support services are available to help get you back on your way.
What will a completely flat battery do to the car if I am driving it?
The vehicle keeps you informed about the current battery capacity in the same way as a conventional vehicle does with the fuel level in the tank. Thanks to regenerative braking, you are continuously charging the battery. If you do not respond to several alerts that the battery is running low and it eventually does become flat, the vehicle will stop in the same way as an internal combustion engine. Unlike an internal combustion engine, however, it does not ventilate, so it can simply be charged without any need for a service.
Is there a service that would come to recharge me? Like a cable start?
If your EV runs out of charge, help is available. In New Zealand, roadside assistance providers such as the AA offer mobile EV charging services in some locations, giving drivers enough charge to reach a nearby charging station or destination. If mobile charging is not available, roadside assistance can arrange transport to the nearest charging station or service location. As EV charging infrastructure continues to expand across New Zealand, support options for EV drivers are also growing