How Long Do Electric Trucks Take to Charge? What You Need to Know

Electric trucks are transforming the commercial vehicle industry in India. As businesses shift toward sustainable mobility, one of the most common questions asked is:
“How long do electric trucks take to charge?”

In this detailed article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about EV truck charging time, battery types, battery sizes, charging steps, and charging station availability in Indian cities.

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Why Charging Time Matters for Electric Trucks

Charging time plays a crucial role in:

• 🕒 Operational uptime – less time charging = more deliveries

• 💸 Cost efficiency – some charging methods cost more

• ⚡ Battery health – improper charging affects long-term performance

Whether you own an electric mini-truck or a heavy-duty e-truck, understanding how, where, and how long to charge is essential.

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Types of EV Truck Batteries and How They Affect Charging

Electric trucks in India come with different battery chemistries and capacities, which directly influence charging speed.

1. Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Battery

• 🔋 Most common in modern EV trucks

• ⚡ High energy density

• 🕒 Charging Time: 3 to 8 hours depending on size

2. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)

• 🔋 Safer and long-lasting

• 🔋 Used in trucks like Euler HiLoad EV, Mahindra Zor Grand

• 🕒 Charging Time: 3 to 5 hours

3. Lead-Acid Battery (rare in new trucks)

• 🧯 Heavy and slower

• 🔋 Less expensive but lower performance

• 🕒 Charging Time: 8 to 10 hours

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EV Truck Battery Sizes and Charging Time

🟩 Conclusion: The bigger the battery, the longer it takes to charge—unless it supports fast charging.

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Types of EV Truck Charging

1. Slow Charging (AC Charging)

• Voltage: 230V (single-phase)

• Time: 4–10 hours

• Best For: Overnight depot charging

• Connector Type: IEC 60309 or 3-pin plug

2. Fast Charging (DC Charging)

• Voltage: 72V–750V (DC)

• Time: 1 to 2 hours

• Best For: Quick turnaround in fleets

• Connector Type: CCS2, CHAdeMO (some use GB/T)

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Where to Charge an EV Truck?

1. Home or Depot Charging

• Most fleet operators charge trucks at night

• Requires a 15A or 32A power plug

• Set up an EV wall charger for safety

2. Public Charging Stations

• Found at metro stations, malls, fuel stations, and highways

• Ideal for mid-day top-ups or emergencies

• Use apps like Tata Power EZ, Statiq, ChargeZone, or Jio-BP Pulse to locate stations

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How to Charge an EV Truck – Step-by-Step Guide

✅ Step 1: Park the truck at a charging station

✅ Step 2: Switch off the ignition and engage handbrake

✅ Step 3: Plug the charging connector into the port

✅ Step 4: Initiate charging via station app or card

✅ Step 5: Monitor charging status on vehicle/dashboard

✅ Step 6: Once full, safely disconnect the charger

✅ Step 7: Collect receipt (if public) and continue driving

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City-Wise Public Charging Stations in India (Major Locations)

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Tips to Reduce Charging Time and Improve Efficiency

• 🔋 Use Fast Chargers: When you’re in a hurry

• 🌡️ Avoid Charging in Extreme Heat: Protects battery health

• 🔄 Don’t Charge to 100% Every Time: 80% is optimal for daily use

• 🔌 Install a Home Charger: Reduces dependency on public stations

• 📲 Use Apps: To track real-time charging station availability

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FAQs – EV Truck Charging Time in India

Q1: How long does it take to fully charge an electric truck?

A: Depending on battery size and charger type, it can take 1.5 to 10 hours.

Q2: Can I install a charger at my business or depot?

A: Yes, many commercial EV charger providers offer depot setup and installation.

Q3: Is fast charging harmful for batteries?

A: Occasional fast charging is fine, but daily use may reduce long-term battery life.

Q4: Are EV truck charging stations available in Tier 2 cities?

A: Yes, cities like Lucknow, Nagpur, Indore, and Jaipur have growing EV infrastructure.

Q5: What is the cost of charging an electric truck?

A: Approx. ₹1.20–₹1.50 per km depending on electricity rates and battery size.

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Final Verdict

Charging an electric truck isn’t complicated once you understand:

• 🛠️ Your battery type and size

• ⚡ Where to charge (home vs public station)

• 🕒 How long it takes (based on charger and model)

Whether you run a single vehicle or a full fleet, optimizing your EV charging process ensures you stay on the road longer and save more.