One of the most convenient features of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is the ability to charge it overnight. But with many people relying on overnight charging¹, a key question arises: are charging stations available around the clock? Understanding the accessibility and cost of overnight charging is essential for any EV owner.

Yes, electric car charging stations are generally available overnight, as most public and home charging stations operate 24/7, allowing you to charge your vehicle while you sleep.

When I first got my electric car, I wasn’t sure if I could rely on overnight charging at public stations or if I’d need a home charging setup². I soon realized that most charging stations are available all night, but not all of them are equally convenient or cost-effective. Let’s dive into the details of overnight charging and whether it’s the best option for your EV needs.

Can you charge your EV overnight?

Yes, you can charge your electric vehicle overnight. In fact, overnight charging is one of the most convenient ways to ensure your car is fully charged for the next day. Most people use home charging stations or standard 120V outlets for overnight charging, as these options are slow but efficient enough to provide a full charge by morning. Public charging stations also typically allow you to charge overnight.

Overnight charging is not only possible but highly recommended, as it allows your car to charge when you're not using it, without disrupting your daily schedule.

What to Consider Before Charging Overnight?

While overnight charging is convenient, it's important to ensure that your charging station is properly rated for overnight use. Most public charging stations³ are open 24/7, but some might have restrictions or limited access during certain hours. If you're relying on a home charging station, ensure that your electrical setup can handle the load for extended periods.

Can I leave my car at Chargepoint overnight?

Yes, you can leave your car at ChargePoint or other similar public charging stations overnight, provided the station is available 24/7. ChargePoint stations typically have no time restrictions, but you should check their app or website for availability in your area. Some stations may impose time limits to prevent long-term parking, so it’s best to be aware of any such policies.

ChargePoint and similar networks allow overnight parking, but it's essential to check the station’s policies for time limits or additional charges.

What Happens If You Stay Overnight at a Charging Station?

In most cases, you can park your car overnight without any issues, but some charging stations may charge an idle fee⁴ if your car remains plugged in after it's fully charged. It's a good idea to monitor your vehicle’s charging status to avoid unnecessary costs.

What happens if an electric car runs out of charge⁵?

If an electric car runs out of charge, it will stop running, just like a gas-powered car with an empty fuel tank. You’ll need to find a charging station to recharge the battery. Fortunately, EVs are equipped with range indicators and low-battery warnings that will alert you before the battery runs out completely.

If your EV runs out of charge, you’ll need to find a charging station or use roadside assistance to get it to a charging location.

How to Prevent Running Out of Charge

To avoid running out of charge, always keep an eye on your battery level, especially before long trips. Many EVs also offer smart charging apps that alert you when your battery is low and suggest nearby charging stations. Additionally, planning your route to include charging stations ensures that you’re never caught off guard by an empty battery.

Are charging stations cheaper at night?

Charging rates at public stations can vary depending on the time of day, and in some cases, charging stations offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours⁶, which typically occur at night. This is because electricity demand is lower during nighttime, and some stations take advantage of this by offering discounts or lower rates during these hours.

Charging stations may be cheaper at night due to lower electricity demand, but this isn’t the case at all stations. Check the pricing schedule at each station to find the best times to charge.

How to Take Advantage of Off-Peak Charging

Some utility companies offer time-of-use (TOU) pricing⁷, which means you can lower your home charging costs by charging during off-peak hours. Public charging stations may also offer similar pricing during late-night hours. It's always a good idea to check the station's rates and try to plan your charging sessions during these cheaper times.

Conclusion

Charging your electric car overnight is not only possible, but it’s also one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to keep your car ready for the next day. Whether you’re using home charging or a public station, the flexibility and convenience of overnight charging make it an ideal option for most EV owners. Be mindful of the station’s policies, especially when leaving your car overnight, and take advantage of off-peak pricing to lower your charging costs.