Questions frequently asked by new users

I’m planning a trip, where can I find chargers around the UK?

There are more than 1,000 EV charge points across Scotland. You can search for chargepoints on a range of websites including Zap-Map, ChargePlace Scotland, Plug share and Open Charge map.

Where can I find a charger in Dundee?

There are more than 104 publicly available charge points across the city, with another 40 planned to be installed before summer 2020. Most will be found at charging hubs and in the form of on-street chargers. For further details visit the ChargePlace Scotland website or Zap map.

How much does it cost to charge in Dundee?

For EV users who live in Dundee, there is no cost. For commercial EV users, it is 15p per kw with a 38p connections fee. This will be invoiced to you by ChargePlace Scotland.

Where do I get information on grants for cars?

The Energy Saving Trust has lots of information on grants available for personal and business use. They currently offer drivers in Scotland up to £35,000 to cover the cost of purchasing a new pure electric/ plug-in hybrid vehicle or up to £10,000 to cover the cost of purchasing a new electric motorcycle or scooter.

How do I get a home charger?

EST and OLEV offer grants up to £1,000 so people can install one. Check out the Energy Saving Trust website (under “transport and EVs and grants”) for more information.

How do I join the free parking scheme?

Send the vehicle details and a contact name to: fleet@ dundeecity.gov.uk Remember: free parking is only available to pure electric vehicles. Hybrids are not eligible.

What’s the difference between a rapid and a fast charger?

Rapid charge points (50Kw) are the quickest way to recharge a vehicle, typically recharging a vehicle to 80% in around 30 minutes. Slow charge points (7Kw) are suitable when vehicles are parked for several hours, such as during working hours or overnight. Fast charge points (22Kw) are a happy medium and ideal when vehicles are parked for a few hours.

Where can I get more information on the Dundee residents’ discount scheme?

If you are a Dundee resident and own an EV or plug-in hybrid, email: fleet@ dundeecity.gov.uk for more details about the discount scheme.

How long does it take to charge a vehicle?

This depends on the car and the charger. For example, the Nissan Leaf 0-80% on a rapid charger will take 40 minutes; fast 22Kw takes six hours 0-100%; and 7Kw takes six hours 0-100%.

How many miles can I travel in one charge?

It depends on the vehicle and the driver. Many newer EVs can travel up to 300 miles on one charge. The BMWi3 gets to 175 miles on the one charge; the Nissan Leaf 40kw battery gets to 165 miles; and the Nissan 24kw battery gets to 110 miles.

Similarly, if you drive fast in a petrol car you will use more fuel; it’s the same in an electric.

How much does it cost to buy and run an EV?

Although the upfront cost of an electric vehicle is often higher, EVs can be cheaper to run due to the low cost of electricity compared to petrol or diesel. The maintenance is cheaper as the EV has fewer moving parts (no oil change needed and the brake pads last longer).

How do I access the chargers?

You need a “ChargePlace Scotland access card”. For more information visit chargeplacescotland.org

What is ChargePlace Scotland?

ChargePlace Scotland is the national charging network for Scotland. It was established and developed by the Scottish government. All charge points are free to access once an account has been set up, except those chargers with a tariff.