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Guide · EV Charging

How to Charge an Electric Car: A Complete Beginner's Guide

New to electric cars? Charging is far simpler than it seems. This guide walks through the steps from start to finish, the difference between AC and DC charging, how long it takes, and tips to charge more safely and efficiently.

Charging an electric car is essentially like charging a phone — you connect the vehicle to a power source, then wait until the battery reaches the level you need. The only differences are the charging type, the speed, and where you do it. In Indonesia, charging usually happens at home or at a public EV charging station (SPKLU).

AC vs DC charging: what's the difference?

AC (alternating current) charging is generally slower and suits home or destinations with a long dwell time — power ranges from 3.5–22 kW. DC (direct current) charging is much faster because electricity flows straight into the battery; at DC fast stations like Starvo, 60–120 kW can charge most of the battery in 30–60 minutes. Choose AC for relaxed daily charging, and DC when you need speed on the road.

Steps to charge at a public station

  1. 01

    Find the nearest station

    Open the Starvo app to see station locations, plug availability, and the power levels available near you.

  2. 02

    Park and check the connector

    Position the vehicle near the charger. Make sure the connector matches — EVs in Indonesia mostly use CCS2, while some models use GB/T.

  3. 03

    Start the session via app or card

    Scan the QR on the charger through the Starvo app, or tap an RFID card. The session is authorized automatically.

  4. 04

    Plug the connector into the car

    Open the car's charging port cover, then connect the cable until it locks. Charging begins and its status appears on the charger screen and in the app.

  5. 05

    Monitor and finish

    Track progress in the app. Once you have enough charge, stop the session, unplug, and payment is calculated automatically based on usage.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

Charging time depends on battery capacity and charger power. On a 120 kW DC fast charger, going from 20% to 80% typically takes about 30–45 minutes for most EVs. AC charging at home (7 kW) can take several hours — ideal overnight. The rule of thumb: use DC fast while traveling, and AC for routine charging.

Tips for more effective charging

  • Charge to about 80% on a fast charger — the speed slows after that to protect battery health.
  • Plan charging around dwell time, such as a meal or shopping.
  • Check plug availability in the app before you set off to avoid waiting.
  • Keep the battery in the 20–80% range for daily use to extend battery life.

Charge on the Starvo network

Starvo operates DC fast & ultra-fast stations at premium city locations. Find your nearest station and start charging from one app.

See the network & station map

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can every electric car charge at a Starvo station?

Most can. Starvo stations use the CCS2 connector that is standard for the majority of EVs in Indonesia, and GB/T stations are also available for China-standard models such as Wuling, Neta, and MG.

How long does 20% to 80% take?

On a 120 kW DC fast charger, typically about 30–45 minutes, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity and condition.

What's the difference between AC and DC charging?

AC is slower (3.5–22 kW) and suits home or long-dwell destinations; DC is much faster (60 kW and up) and ideal while traveling.

How do I pay?

Through the Starvo app. The session starts by scanning a QR or tapping an RFID card, and the cost is calculated automatically based on usage.

Is it safe to charge in the rain?

Yes. Chargers and connectors are designed with water and electrical protection (e.g. IP55), plus insulation monitoring and automatic protections.

How to Charge an Electric Car: Complete 2026 Guide | Starvo