As electric vehicles are becoming more popular, the number of charging stations to keep them road-ready is rapidly growing. Like any shared resource, using EV charging points comes with a set of unspoken rules to ensure EV charging is a positive experience for everyone.
Let’s dive into the dos and don’ts of EV charging etiquette. That way, the EV charging ecosystem will keep running smoothly, and everyone can drive away faster and happier.
DO: treat your charger with care
EV chargers are precious resources and expensive pieces of technology, so treat them with care. Position your vehicle within the designated parking space to align correctly with the cable. Be gentle with the charging cable and connector. Yanking or forcefully plugging an EV charger could damage the equipment and your EV. After charging, neatly coil the charging cable and secure it in its holder or designated storage area so it’s ready for its next user.
DON’T: take a charging spot without plugging in
Not only does this take someone’s charging opportunity away, it’s also possible you may receive a $128 on-the-spot fine. ACT drivers that use EV charging spaces without charging or block their access with a petrol or diesel-powered vehicle (commonly referred to as ICE-ing) may face fines of up to $3,200, while EV owners may receive a $128 penalty.
DO: charge up and drive off
Lingering longer than needed at the charging point will only frustrate other drivers waiting for their turn, like if you were at a traditional petrol station. Be mindful of the charging station’s limits – some places only allow you a designated time window. Charging stations are busiest during morning and evening rush hours, so plan ahead to avoid long waits.
DON’T: experience road rage
Motorists taking forever to recharge or blocking access lanes? Despite how infuriating other EV drivers’ behaviour may be, be the better driver and lead by example. Honking or yelling with impatience will only disrupt the charging environment and create unwanted conflict.
DO: be a good charging citizen
When you arrive at a charging station, checking in to your location via the Plugshare app allows you to update or report any relevant information that ultimately helps maintain a seamless experience for electric vehicle users. When you come across a faulty charger or a cable on its last legs, do the right thing and report it. Charging station operators rely on user reports to identify problems. When you report a broken charger, you contribute to prompt maintenance and repairs, reducing downtime for the charging point. Not only does reporting issues help charging networks understand usage patterns and areas of improvement, but you’ll also save other drivers the frustration of finding them out-of-order.
DON’T: unplug your neighbour
You’re late for work, and the driver in front of you is taking forever to charge. Resist the temptation to unplug their charger. Yes, they may be taking ages, however, they may have planned their charging based on specific distance needs. All EV users deserve equal access to charging infrastructure. By leaving chargers connected until a session is complete, you contribute to a level playing field for everyone. Repeatedly unplugging chargers could lead to premature wear and tear on connectors and cables. Additionally, it can be hazardous to forcefully pull-out plugs.
Summary
- Treat chargers with care and leave promptly after charging.
- Don’t park in charging spots unnecessarily.
- Report faulty charging stations.
- Avoid road rage and never unplug another EV.
