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Electric Car FAQs
18 Oct 2024
We’re here to answer your Electric Car FAQs. With the government announcing the end of the sale of new petrol and diesel cars in the UK by 2035, our guide is designed to put your mind at ease. From charging times to towing capabilities, you’ll soon see that an electric car is every bit as practical as a combustion engine.
What is the range of an electric car?
The range of an electric car enturely depends on the size of the battery and the model. For example, the Mercedes-Benz EQS Saloon has a range of 481 miles on its 108.4kWh battery, whereas the Mercedes-Benz EQC offers a maximum range of 255 miles.
Range will be impacted by using other functions of the vehicle such as heating/air conditioning and infotainment features, all of which require energy. However, by driving in Eco mode, some of this energy will be recouped using regenerative breaking. Find out more about how to maximise your electric range.
Are public electric charging points free?
There are thousands of free charging points across the country. These are often in public places such as shopping centres, public car parks and supermarkets, as well as in some work places. If you do need to pay for your charging you can do so either on a pay-as-you-go basis, or on a monthly subscription.
How long does charging take?
The speed of charging depends on the type of plug that you are using.
SLOW CHARGER – If you are using a domestic three pin plug you will be using a slow charge. This mode of charging takes from 6 – 12 hours (for a fully electric vehicle), and is therefore ideal for those who are able to plug their car in overnight.
FAST CHARGE – This type of charge is available from a home Wall Box and is often the preferred domestic or workplace charging option. These chargers are available in 7 – 22kw. A fast charger will fully charge an electric car in 3 – 7 hours.
RAPID CHARGE – As the name suggests, these chargers are by far the fastest and can charge an electric car to 80% in up to 40 minutes. They are often found in service stations and larger supermarkets or shopping centres. Plug in and enjoy a stretch of your legs and a coffee stop for your longer journeys!
How do I find a charging point?
There are a number of tools available to find your nearest charge station. The interactive ZapMap app uses your location to give you a full list of charging points near you, and the ability to choose the type of connector that you’re looking for.
Of course, your Mercedes-Benz can help too. Fully electric models have intelligent navigation which will plan your route according to your charge requirements. For longer journeys, it will tell you when and where to charge. It will also react to live traffic updates to reroute you if your charge won’t get you to a charger in time, as well as also updating on availability of charge points available.
What are the environmental impacts of electric cars?
Fully electric vehicles have zero CO2 emissions which is, of course, much better for the environment than traditional combustion engines. Find out more benefits about making the switch to electric.
However, it is also worth considering the carbon footprint of vehicle production too. There is constant innovation in this area and Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz’s parent brand) are working to include sustainable recycling as part of their battery lifecycle.
Can an electric car tow a caravan?
Yes! The maximum amount of towing weight depends on the model, but for example, the Mercedes-Benz EQC can tow up to 1,800kg. A perfect environmentally-friendly way to spend your staycation.
Can I hear from someone who has made the switch?
Early adopter Mr Stroud drove our first EQC off the forecourt in October 2019. He did his research but decided it had to be Mercedes:
“I looked at some of the electric focused brands and although the tech side of it is very good they’ve only been building cars for 15 years or so, while Mercedes have been doing it for 133 years and therein lies the big difference; they know how to build cars.”
Read the full interview with Mr Stroud here.
What is the drive like?
Driving an electric car is every bit the Mercedes-Benz experience, enhanced by a peaceful near-silent cabin experience, along with an exhilarating acceleration performance. The silence of the engine means that the acceleration feels even more thrilling!
