It’s safe to say that there are more than 2 million electric vehicles throughout different countries in Europe, which is certainly an impressive rate of growth for EVs. However, sometimes, depending on where you are, there might be limited charging options.
Moreover, because of the sudden popularity of electric vehicles over the past few years, the charging infrastructure, although growing, may still not be enough to accommodate the growing amount of EVs. It is important to recognize that there are distinct nuances associated with charging an electric vehicle at an EV station and adhering to certain unspoken guidelines can streamline the process for both yourself and fellow EV owners.
In light of this, we’re going to give you a general overview of essential EV charging rules and etiquette that you should take to heart.
5 Necessary Protocols for Charging Your EV
Whether you’ve just purchased an EV or are looking to streamline your experience when it comes to charging the car and sharing the road with other EV owners, here are some things you should keep in mind.
Moreover, make sure to park your car correctly and always remember to leave space for other drivers to get in and out. Never throw or leave your rubbish behind and be sure to leave reviews and feedback for other EV drivers. For instance, let others know whether you’ve encountered any problems charging your EV at a specific charging station – and as importantly report these issues to the charging point operator – , if not, mention that it was a good experience.
1. Report Any Technical Issues
If you see that there are problems with the charging station and that no one else has reported the problem to the necessary Charging Point Operators (CPOs), it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. This is also a major part of the right EV charging etiquette. Reporting a negative experience or a problem not only improves your next charging session but also everyone else’s.
2. Don’t Be a Greedy Charger
Another important factor to consider is selecting the right kind of public charging station. Choose one in line with your needs. For instance, if you’re going out for shopping, watching a movie, or having dinner, go for a charging station that can charge your EV in the necessary time slot. Moreover, you could also opt for a high-speed EV charging area that can charge your vehicle up to 80% in 20-30 minutes.
Depending on the type of charging station you choose, the charging process can be quick or take a considerable amount of time, which is why it is important not to unnecessarily take up the parking space at the charging station. When you’re done, park your EV somewhere else, and let the next person charge their vehicle. And in no circumstance should you ever consider a charging station as just another parking spot. This also goes for non-EV drivers.
3. Consider Sufficiently Charging Your Vehicle
Another important EV charging etiquette you need to keep in mind is the fact that you don’t necessarily have to fill your battery up to 100%. It’s better to calculate the distance to your destination and charge your vehicle in line with the total travel time making sure that it’s going to be enough for you to reach your next charging session without any stress or worries. This is going to help make things easier for the next person in line while also helping you save some time.
4. Keep Track of Your Progress
Locating a public electric vehicle charger is incredibly straightforward. You can easily park your vehicle at an EV charging station situated in places like malls and take the opportunity to grab a snack or go shopping while your car recharges. Nevertheless, it’s essential to exercise prudence. To effectively manage your charging duration, it is advisable to utilize tracking applications, and there are several smartphone apps at your disposal, including Miio, Chargemap, and Electromaps.
Using an EV charging app, you’ll also be able to set a precise time at which your car finishes charging, sending you a prompt notification. So, once you see that your car’s fully or sufficiently charged, head to the station and unplug your vehicle.
5. Don’t Forget to Attach the Connector When You’re Done
Charging cables and connectors are critical components of an EV charging station. Being careless with these components can result in costly repairs and downtime for the charging station, inconveniencing other users. With that said, it’s important to be careful with the cables and connectors. Don’t forget to attach the connector when the charging process is completed – this not only prevents tripping hazards but also makes it easier for the next user to access and use the station without untangling a messy cable.
Bottom Line
In an era of surging electric vehicle popularity, understanding and practising proper EV charging etiquette is crucial. These unspoken guidelines not only streamline the charging process but also ensure a positive experience for all EV owners. From reporting technical issues to using tracking apps and respecting charging components, following these protocols fosters a considerate EV community. If you’re a business owner and are interested in installing a charging station in your commercial parking lot, feel free to contact us here.
