How to Charge an Electric Car for the First Time: Step by Step

Before leaving home: what to prepare

Your first charge at a public station can cause some anxiety, but it is simpler than it seems. Before heading out, get ready:

1. Know which connector your car uses

The vast majority of electric cars sold in Brazil from 2022 onward use the CCS2 connector for fast charging (DC). Check your manual or your vehicle's charging port. If you bought a BYD, GWM, Volvo, BMW or Mercedes, it is CCS2.

For slow charging (AC), the standard connector is Type 2 — which is actually the upper part of the CCS2 itself.

2. Install the necessary apps

Most public charging stations require an app to start the session and make the payment. Install it before leaving:

• PlugShare: The "Waze of charging stations". It shows every charging point, with user reviews, photos and real-time status. Essential.
• The network's app: If you know which network you will use (Energia Atual, Shell Recharge, Zletric, Copel), install the corresponding app and register a payment method.

3. Check the location and power

On PlugShare or Google Maps, search for the nearest charging station. Check:

• Whether it has the connector you need (CCS2 for fast DC)
• The available power (the higher, the faster)
• Whether it is working (recent reviews help)
• Operating hours (not all are 24h)

At the station: step by step

Step 1: Park correctly

Position the car so the charging port is close to the charger cable. At some stations the cable is short — you may need to back in. Look for markings on the ground indicating the ideal position.

Step 2: Open the car's charging port

Each model has a different way of opening the charging flap:

• BYD Dolphin/Seal: Press the flap on the rear left side
• GWM Ora 03: Button on the dashboard or tap the flap
• Volvo EX30/XC40: Button on the key or on the central display
• BMW iX1/i4: Button on the driver's door

If you can't find it, check the manual. Most cars unlock the charging port when the vehicle is unlocked.

Step 3: Start the session in the app

Open the charging station network's app. The process is usually:

1. Select the charger (by QR code at the station or by number)
2. Choose the connector (CCS2 for fast DC)
3. Confirm the start of the session
4. Wait for the charger's light to change (usually from blue to blinking green)

Step 4: Connect the cable

Take the charger's CCS2 connector and plug it firmly into the car's port. You should hear a click — this means the connector is locked. The car automatically locks the connector to prevent anyone from removing it during charging.

Don't force the connector. If it doesn't fit easily, check that it is in the right orientation. The CCS2 has a smaller upper part (Type 2) and a larger lower part (DC). Both need to fit.

Step 5: Follow the charging

With the cable connected and the session started, charging begins automatically. You can track the progress:

• On the car's display (battery percentage and estimated time)
• In the phone app (kWh delivered, current power, cost)
• On the charger's own screen (if it has one)

Step 6: Make the most of the time

A 20% to 80% charge on a 60 kW charger takes between 30 and 45 minutes. That is enough time to:

• Have a coffee or a snack
• Reply to messages and emails
• Take a walk
• Have a meal, if there is a restaurant nearby

Charging time is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. The best charging stations are the ones that give you something to do while you wait.

Step 7: Finish and disconnect

When the charge reaches the desired level (80% is recommended for fast charging):

1. End the session in the app (or the charger stops automatically at 100%)
2. Wait for the connector to unlock (the car or the app releases it)
3. Remove the connector and put it back in the charger's holder
4. Close the car's charging port
5. Check the receipt in the app (total cost, kWh delivered)

Common mistakes on the first charge

Some problems beginners face and how to avoid them:

• "The charger won't start": Check that the app is active and that you selected the correct connector. Sometimes restarting the session in the app solves it.
• "The connector won't fit": Confirm you are using the right connector (CCS2 vs. Type 2 vs. CHAdeMO). Each has a different shape.
• "The power is lower than expected": Normal if the battery is very full (above 80%) or very cold. The car's BMS controls the power.
• "I can't remove the connector": The car locks the connector during charging. End the session first. On some cars, unlocking the doors also releases the connector.

How much your first charge will cost

Prices vary by network and type of charger:

Type of charge	Price per kWh	Cost for 30 kWh (20-80%)
AC (mall, free)	R$ 0.00	Free
AC (public, paid)	R$ 1.20-2.00	R$ 36-60
DC Fast Charging	R$ 1.80-3.00	R$ 54-90

On your first time, don't worry too much about the price. The goal is to get familiar with the process. Over time, you will identify the charging stations with the best value in your routine.

Tips for future charges

1. Charge routinely, not in emergencies: Plug in whenever you get the chance, instead of waiting for the battery to run out.
2. 80% is the new 100%: For fast charging, stop at 80%. It is more efficient and preserves the battery.
3. Combine home + public: Home charging for everyday use, DC stations for trips and emergencies.
4. Rate the charging stations on PlugShare: Your reviews help other EV drivers.
5. Don't block the spot: When charging is done, move the car. Charging-station etiquette.