How long does it take for a car to fully charge the battery after starting?
2 Answers
Generally, driving on the highway for more than an hour allows the car's alternator to fully charge the battery. Below is an introduction to alternators: Introduction: Alternators (Generators) are mechanical devices that convert other forms of energy into electrical energy, invented by the Frenchman Pixii in 1832. Operation: Typical alternators convert the energy stored in various primary energy sources into mechanical energy through a prime mover, which is then converted into electrical energy by the alternator and transmitted via power distribution networks to various consumption points. Principle: Alternators are divided into DC generators and AC generators, both operating based on the laws of electromagnetic induction and electromagnetic force, widely used in industrial and agricultural production, national defense, technology, and daily life.
After my car had a dead battery last time, I specifically asked the mechanic, and there's no standard answer for charging time. It mainly depends on how much the battery is drained and the condition of your car's alternator. If the battery is severely drained, idling for at least half an hour is needed to recover some charge, but to fully charge it, you need to drive for more than half an hour. Don't expect a few kilometers of commuting to fully charge it, especially in winter when the heater also consumes power. I make it a habit to drive on the expressway for half an hour each week, and the battery has been in good condition. However, older cars with smaller alternators will charge more slowly.
