Can a Portable Generator Charge an Electric Car?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can a portable generator charge an electric car?”, you’re not alone. The short answer is yes, it can, but it’s not as simple as plugging in your EV at home. Charging an electric car with a generator requires the right setup, power output, and a few safety steps.

In this guide, we’ll break it down in plain, simple English so you’ll know exactly when and how it works, what to avoid, and what kind of generator is best.

What It Means to Charge an EV with a Generator

When we say charging an electric car with a generator, we mean using a portable or diesel generator to supply electricity to your car’s charger instead of using grid power.

Most home EV chargers are designed for stable grid electricity. A portable generator creates power differently it uses fuel to spin an engine and make AC electricity. That means the power may fluctuate or carry small voltage changes that your car might not like.

That’s why only certain generators, like high-quality inverters or diesel units, can safely and effectively charge an EV.

Why It’s Possible But Not Always Easy

Here’s when it usually works well:

• Your generator produces enough wattage for your EV charger.
  

• The output is pure sine wave (clean power).
  

• You use the correct EVSE cable or portable charger.
  

• You’ve properly grounded the generator and it’s set up safely outdoors.
  

If those boxes are ticked, your generator can power your car especially in emergencies or when you’re off the grid.

Why Many People Find It Difficult

There are a few hurdles that make EV charging with a generator tricky:

• Power limits: Small portable units often don’t have enough watts. To charge at a decent speed, you’ll usually need at least 5,000 watts.
  

• Dirty power: Cheaper models can produce uneven electricity that confuses the EV’s onboard charger.
  

• Grounding and safety: Without proper grounding, some EVs simply won’t accept the charge.
  

• Exhaust fumes: All fuel-powered generators must be run outdoors because they create carbon monoxide.
  

• Fuel cost: It’s not very efficient to run a generator long enough to charge a car can use a lot of petrol or diesel.
  

So yes, you can do it, but it’s best for emergencies, camping, or remote locations rather than everyday charging.

The Best Types of Generators for EV Charging

When it comes to EVs, inverter generators are your best bet. They produce clean, steady power that’s safer for electronics and your car’s sensitive charging system.

If you need more power or you’re dealing with rough conditions, a diesel generator might be a smarter choice. Diesel units are tougher, can run longer, and are often enclosed for weather protection.

You can explore DGA’s portable generators collection to see compact inverter models designed for reliable outdoor power, or check out the diesel generators range for heavier-duty charging and job-site use.

How to Safely Charge Your EV Using a Generator

If you ever need to try it, follow these steps:

1. Know your EV’s needs. Check your owner’s manual for input voltage and maximum charging rate.
   

2. Choose the right generator. Pick one that provides at least 20% more wattage than your EVSE requires.
   

3. Use a proper EVSE or portable charger. Avoid homemade or unapproved setups.
   

4. Ground the generator properly. Follow the manufacturer’s grounding instructions.
   

5. Run it outside. Keep it at least 20 feet from doors or windows to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
   

6. Check connections. Make sure cords and plugs are dry and rated for outdoor use.
   

7. Start the generator first, then plug in your EVSE.
   

8. Monitor charging. Stop if the generator sounds unstable or if the car shows an error.
   

Following these steps keeps both you and your car safe.

How Long Will It Take?

That depends on your setup. Here’s a rough idea for a 60 kWh battery:

• 2 kW generator - extremely slow; might take over a day to add half a charge.
  

• 5 kW generator - medium; could take 6–8 hours to add 30 kWh.
  

• 10 kW generator — faster; 3–4 hours for about half a charge.
  

In real life, weather, efficiency, and cable quality all affect timing.

Myths and the Real Truth

Myth 1: “Any generator will work.”
Truth: Only generators with enough wattage and stable power output can charge an EV.

Myth 2: “It’s the same as fast charging.”
Truth: Not even close. Generator charging is slower and meant for emergencies.

Myth 3: “Covering it with a tarp keeps it safe.”
Truth: A tarp can trap heat and fumes. Use a ventilated, weather-resistant cover instead.

Myth 4: “Using a generator voids your warranty.”
Truth: Not always, but using unstable power could. Always check your car’s warranty terms.

When a Generator Makes Sense

A generator is helpful when:

• You’re stuck without grid power during a storm.
  

• You’re camping or off-grid with your EV.
  

• You run a business in remote areas where public chargers aren’t available.
  

For those situations, having the right generator gives peace of mind your car won’t stay stuck just because the grid went down.

We Can Help You Choose the Right Generator

If you’re considering using a generator for EV charging or just want reliable backup power, DGA Power Anytime can help.

Need parts or accessories? Visit our Genuine Parts & Accessories page. You can also contact our team for personal advice on which model suits your setup best.

FAQs 

Q: Can a portable generator charge an electric car?

Yes, a portable generator can charge an electric car if it provides the right voltage and clean sine-wave power. It’s best used for emergencies or when you’re off-grid.

Q: What size generator do I need?

A 5 kW or larger inverter generator is recommended for practical charging. Smaller ones may work, but they’ll charge slowly.

Q: Can I use a petrol generator safely?

Yes, but only outdoors and properly grounded. Never run it indoors or near windows — exhaust fumes are dangerous.

Q: Does charging from a generator hurt the car battery?

Not if the power is stable. Unstable or “dirty” power might cause issues, so always use a quality generator and EVSE.

Q: How long does it take?

With a 5 kW generator, expect 6–8 hours for a moderate charge. A 10 kW unit will be faster, while smaller ones will take much longer.

Final Thoughts

So, can a portable generator charge an electric car? Absolutely, but you need the right equipment, enough power, and good safety habits. It’s a smart backup plan, especially for rural or off-grid drivers.

And if you’re ready to find a dependable, weather-resistant generator for your EV setup, the team at DGA Power Anytime has everything you need from portable units to heavy-duty diesel models and genuine spare parts.