EV Etiquette

As seasoned EV drivers we have learned lots of lessons around how and when to charge. Shared countless stories with fellow EV early adopters over a high voltage cable and had a snoop around the latest EV model whilst muttering mutual frustrations about broken units, yet another APP downloads, inconsiderate driver behaviour and just simply poor charging design.

So, to support the move to mass EV adoption, we have put together our top charging etiquette tips to help keep you on the road.

1. IF YOU DON’T NEED TO CHARGE.

Don’t park in a charging bay.  Simples!

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHARGER.

If you have access to a rapid charger, but your car cannot take a high charge transfer rate, leave it free for someone to use who can really benefit.

3. DON’T BE A SPACE HOG.

Time is precious for everyone so keep an eye on your charge levels and move on as soon as you hit what you need for your onward journey.

4. STATE OF CHARGE

If your vehicle has significant levels of charge, try and avoid using busy public charging stations. Wait until you can benefit from overnight at home charge if you can and save charging for when you really need it. It will keep your battery in good health and support grid balancing because as much as we all like a candle lit dinners or baths, we don’t want to rely on them to manage our way through power outages.

5. HANDS OFF.

Even if you are in a hurry and need a quick charge, don’t be tempted to unplug a fellow EV driver even if you think they are topped up.  It’s not cool and thankfully nowadays, most EV’s are equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent this occurring.

6. PUT THE CABLE BACK.

Yes, even if it was on the floor when you arrived be a good egg and put it back in the holder.  It might just put a smile on the next users face, prevent a trip hazard and keep the cable in good working condition.  We are after all trying to save the planet, reduce consumption and all that!

7. STOP THE CHARGE.

Don’t just hit the big red emergency button to stop the charge when you are finished.  Close the charging session down correctly to keep the unit online for the next user.

8. BE HELPFUL, KIND AND COURTIOUS.

If you see a fellow EV driver struggling, help them out, keep the bay areas tidy and free from rubbish and chat to each other to make the time go faster

As electric vehicle uptake increases so will the need for a much-improved charging infrastructure, combined with education and convenience if we really are going to convert the masses to EV adoption. The charging landscape will require a blend of home charging and shared use, destination charging, rapid and ultra-rapid hubs along with Charging as a Service (CaaS) and Mobile charging models as championed by our good selves.

If you are looking for a more flexible system that can move and grwo with you, get in touch with us on info@oomphev.com to disucss how off grid mobile charging could work for you.