EV Charging Etiquette for Beginners3 min read
Have you recently shifted from a traditional car with an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) to an Electric Vehicle (EV)?
On top of enjoying a quieter ride with more power, you’re probably no longer a stranger to EV charging stations. As an EV driver, you should familiarize yourself with the proper EV charging etiquette so that other drivers have a hassle-free experience on the road and in parking/charging lots.
Dos and Don’ts of EV Charging
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Plan In Advance
Dreading the long waiting lines at charging stations when you’re already late? Now you can escape the hassle by planning ahead of time, right from the comforts of your home. Use apps that let you see the availability of EV chargers in real time.
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Charge, Don’t Park!
A little consideration for fellow EV chargers will go a long way. When your EV charging app notifies you that you’re done charging, move your car from the charging port as soon as you can instead of squatting there. It is downright irresponsible to use these charging stations as parking spots.
Also, don’t leave your car to charge while you’re out shopping. If you do, remember to leave a note on your windscreen. Move along once you’re done, and let others take charge (literally!).
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Move to a Level 2 Charger When You Hit 80%
Most EVs slow down the charging rate of a fast charge when they’ve reached 80%. Check your EV charging app to know when you hit 80%. Then wrap the session or move to a level 2 charger, especially when other drivers are waiting in line for the level 1 charger.
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Return the Connector Once You’re Done
Remember to securely place the connector in the holster no matter how pressed you are for time. This mitigates the risk of connector damage, saving other drivers from tripping over the connector and potentially injuring themselves.
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Don’t Unplug Others
It might be tempting to unplug others in their absence. Use your app to find an available EV charging port, or simply wait. Don’t unplug other drivers unless they are overcharged, in which case leave them a note!
Other basic rules to follow around EV stations include: ✔ Keep your music at a low volume while you wait for the EV to charge. ✔ Do not litter outside the station. ✔ Exercise patience in the event of unprecedented queues at the station.
Also Read: Florida Leads the EV Charging Revolution in the US
Join the EV Revolution
With future generations eagerly looking toward affordable and sustainable EV models, it is clear that the future is electric! If you’re a parking operator looking to upgrade your locations, offering EV charging as a value-added service is a great idea for futureproofing your business!
With GMP EV, you can offer value-added services like EV charging through a custom-branded parking app or web app! Here’s why you should choose GMP EV to transform your parking lot into a mobility hub:
- Discover charging stations easily using the app
- Go app-less with a QR-based solution
- Pay online just once for both parking and charging
- Manage your sessions on a centralized dashboard
- Get real-time reports on energy consumption
- OCPI-compliant solutions for greater flexibility
What are you waiting for? Contact sales@getmyparking.com for a free demo or check GMP EV out on our website!