Plain English EV basics

kW vs kWh

The easiest way to understand EV charging speed and energy amount.

kW = speed

Kilowatts measure how fast energy is flowing. A 5 kW charging limit means the charger can deliver roughly 5 kWh for each hour the vehicle is charging, if the vehicle can accept that rate.

kWh = amount

Kilowatt-hours measure how much energy your car receives. It is similar to gallons of fuel, but for electricity.

Example: If free charging is limited to 5 kW and a vehicle charges for 2 hours, the car receives about 10 kWh.

What affects charging speed?