Charge rage is a new phenomenon experienced by electric vehicle drivers. What can you do to find a charging point and cut your wait? We look into the solutions.
EV Charge rage is relatively new and has emerged following the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and the slow pace of installation of charging stations. This term refers to the frustration and anger experienced by electric car drivers when they are unable to find a free charging point. EV charge rage can cause tensions to rise, leading to conflicts and arguments at charging points or over quick EV chargers.
A code of conduct adopted and integrated into the Highway Code is needed urgently to put a stop to motorists bickering at charging points. Drivers have reported multiple incidents of irate motorists arguing over whose turn it is to use a charging point.
One of the main reasons for the increase in EV charge rage is that certain areas of the country are not seeing the pace of installation of charging points keeping up with the number of electric cars on the roads.
Plus, the number of electric vehicles on the road is increasing rapidly. Many of the charging points that have been installed are either standard or very slow chargers. This means that individuals can be left feeling stranded, miles away from their next charging outlet, and becoming increasingly irritated and angry and unable to move their electric motors.
EV charge rage, what can be done?
To reduce EV charge rage, there are several steps that need to be taken. The first and most obvious step is to increase the number of charging points in selected locations.
Governments and private companies need to work together to install more charging points in convenient locations and destinations, such as parking lots, shopping centres and public places.
Another requirement is to improve the speed of charging across the infrastructure. Fast charging points will reduce the time spent parked at a charger, reducing waiting times and helping drivers get back on the road quickly.
Of course, one of the best ways to prevent EV charge rage is to install a portable EV charging station at home. This allows drivers to charge their vehicle before leaving on a trip but if you are going on a long journey then you are going to have to charge up elsewhere.
So, installing more charging points, and improving the speed of charging are essential.
Providing portable chargers could be another effective way to prevent EV charge rage.
Provide real-time information on charging availability: Providing drivers with real-time information on charging point availability can help them plan their journeys and avoid situations where they cannot find a charging point. This information can be made available through mobile apps or websites.
Use innovative solutions such as wireless charging: Wireless charging technology is becoming increasingly popular for EVs. Implementing this technology in public places such as parking lots and rest areas can help reduce charge rage and make the charging experience more convenient for drivers.
Introduce a code of practice for charging protocol: A code of practice can help establish a set of guidelines and expectations for EV drivers when using charging points.
What might an EV Charge Rage code of practice include?
This can include elements such as prioritising drivers with low battery levels, not blocking charging points when the vehicle is fully charged, and taking turns when there is a queue.
Elements that could be included in a code of practice for charging protocol could include
- Respect for other EV drivers and remember we’re all in this together.
- Clear communication, clearly communicate with each other to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts when we can’t all be parked in a bay.
- Be respectful when joining the queue for EV charging stations.
- Park safely and see if you can check the order of the queue.
- Avoid blocking access to charging stations with your vehicle.
- Don’t monopolise the charging bay, and move your car after charging. Most people charge for just 30 minutes
- Use a charger appropriate for your EV’s supported charging speed and try not to use a rapid charger if your vehicle can’t accept the rapid charge.
- Never cancel or unplug someone else’s charging session.
- Use a charging app to find available chargers nearby if you are in a rush like Zapmap or Electroverse.
- Be aware of your surroundings and any rules, regulations or time limits for the bays.
- Help newcomers who appear to be struggling.
- Report any out-of-order charging points as this will hopefully speed up any repairs.
- Replace the charger in the holster after use to prevent tripping hazards.
- Petrol or diesel vehicles should not park in electric car charging bays.
- Remain vigilant and stay safe.
What authorities and others need to do to help EV Charge Rage
Serviced Hubs should be available because everyone should have access to electric vehicle (EV) charging, even if they need extra support. Serviced hubs at strategic locations can provide assistance and support to any EV users, including those with differing abilities.
Provide priority call lines
In case of an emergency or breakdown, it’s important for everyone to have access to help quickly. That’s why we suggest having a priority call line or help button service available at larger and remote EV charging sites. This service can be especially helpful for vulnerable or disabled individuals.
Ensure easier payments
We want to make sure that everyone can use EV charging points easily and comfortably. To do this, we suggest having payment screens that can accommodate different heights and offer a range of payment options. We also recommend that digital platforms include multiple sensory channels and additional means of site navigation, such as voice-based navigation.
Better communication
We understand that not everyone may be familiar with EV charging or technology, so it’s important to provide helpful information and guidance. That’s why we suggest providing short information videos at medium and larger charging hubs to help users learn how to charge their vehicles and what to do in case of a problem or emergency. We also recommend having a dedicated web page with helpful information for users to access before visiting a charging point or hub.
Better signposting
We want to make it easy for everyone to find and identify EV charging points. That’s why we suggest having good visibility and contrasting designs/colours for charge points, which can help visually impaired pedestrians as well as drivers. Consistency in the location and space around charge points can also make it easier for people to navigate public spaces and feel confident in finding a charging point.
Shelter and rest point provision
We want everyone to feel comfortable while charging their vehicles. That’s why we suggest having shelters and rest points available where there is space, to provide protection from the elements and a place to rest. We also recommend integrating other forms of charging for disabled people, such as mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, where possible.
People to help with enforcement
To ensure that everyone has access to EV charging points, it’s important to have regular enforcement of EV charging bays. This can help to ensure that there is a turnover of vehicles and reasonable access to charging points for all users.
Regular and quick maintenance
Regular maintenance of EV charging points and the surrounding landscape is important to encourage use and provide a sense of security. By keeping the charging points and surrounding areas clean and well-maintained, we can help ensure everyone feels comfortable using them.
If you want more information about charging your EV, then check out our Guide to Electric Charging here.
