Toronto Kia
If you've made the switch to an electric vehicle or are considering one soon, you've probably asked yourself this: Should I charge my vehicle at home or rely on public charging stations? The truth is that both options have their place—and understanding how they work can help you get the most out of your EV ownership.
With Canada’s growing EV infrastructure and incentives to support clean driving, it’s easier than ever to power up your vehicle wherever you are. But the experience of charging at home and on the go is quite different. Let’s explore how each method compares and what makes the most sense based on your daily routine.
Home charging is often the easiest and most cost-effective way to keep your electric vehicle (EV) ready to go. Most EV drivers install a Level 2 home charger, which uses a 240V outlet to recharge the battery much faster than a standard wall plug. Depending on your vehicle and charger, you could get a full charge overnight or add about 30 to 50 kilometres of range per hour.
The big win here is convenience. You plug in at night, and by morning, your vehicle is good to go. No waiting, no driving to a station, and no concerns about charger availability. You also avoid peak charging rates that may apply to some public stations.
Installation costs for Level 2 charger station can run from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on your setup, but provincial and federal rebates can offset much of that. In the long run, charging at home typically costs less per kilometre than gas or public charging.
When you’re away from home or on a longer trip, public charging becomes essential. Canada’s charging network is rapidly growing, especially in urban areas and along major highways. These stations range from slower Level 2 chargers to DC fast chargers, which can add 100 to 300 kilometres of range in just 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your EV.
Apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub make it easier to find available chargers, check real-time status, and plan routes based on range. Some networks also allow mobile payments, while others offer monthly memberships for reduced per-use rates.
The trade-off? You may need to wait for a spot to open or pay more per charge than you would at home. However, for those without driveway access or for EV drivers who frequently travel, public charging provides added freedom and flexibility.
If you mostly commute short distances, have access to a private driveway or garage, and value predictability, home charging is the clear winner. It saves time, lowers your energy cost, and makes owning an EV feel effortless.
However, if you live in such an area where you frequently travel or just prefer the flexibility of multiple charging locations, public infrastructure will play a bigger role. Thankfully, many newer electric vehicles (EVs) support fast charging, and the Canadian network is quickly closing the gap to meet growing demand.
Most EV owners end up using a mix of both—charging at home most of the time and using public stations for longer trips or top-ups during busy days.
The charging landscape is evolving fast. More workplaces are installing chargers, cities are offering curbside solutions, and even retail centres are getting involved. At the same time, EV models are becoming more efficient, meaning less time spent charging overall.
With smart charging options, solar integrations, and vehicle-to-grid potential on the horizon, the future of powering your vehicle may be more dynamic than ever. But for now, it starts with one simple choice: plug in at home or on the go.
Are you looking to explore electric vehicles and learn how they’ll work with your lifestyle? Visit Toronto Kia in Toronto, to see our latest EV lineup, discover charging solutions, and find the right electric model for your needs.
Visit Kia website to explore Kia’s electric vehicles and learn how simple and convenient EV charging can be.