Electric cars are quickly taking over our roads! With a phenomenal 345.2% growth YTD in June 2023 and 11,042 EV sales reported in the month alone.
While you may be familiar with regular petrol driving etiquette, particularly, what to and not to do when it comes to the service station.
The key difference between recharging an EV and refueling a petrol engine, is that recharging your EV and the time it takes to do so must be factored into your trip planning. Though manufacturers promote 'fast-charging' times for their EVs, the time taken to charge is considerably longer than refueling with petrol.
Public electric chargers as a result often lead to longer queues or wait times. Many drivers take this as an opportunity to leave their vehicle at the charger (locked of course) and go about their day. If not made back by the time the battery is fully charged, drivers can overstay their welcome at the charger inconveniencing others.
Here are the top 10 rules to EV etiquette:
1. Be efficient in your use of the public DC charger
Charging to full battery should generally occur at home. When out driving, in terms of proper etiquette, we recommend charging to 80% (if you require more for your trip, then of course charge higher than this.) Charging times for 0-80% is much faster than what it takes to get from 80%-100%.
2. Choose the right charger for your car and needs
You will often find several charging options available at your charging site. The chargers are there to service the different power choices for your vehicle.
Charge your car according to the power charging rate it can handle. If you do charge at a faster speed, ensure that you are back by the time your vehicle finishes charging.
3. Park appropriately (legally) when waiting for a charger
You'll likely find yourself in a queue for an electric charger during your EV ownership. When this does happen, ensure that you park your car in a safe and legal manner.
4. Report any charger damages
EV charging sites do not require attendance like a regular petrol station does. Therefore, damages at the sites are not noticed and reported on as quickly. If you do find any damage, contact the owner or manager of the charging site as soon as possible.
5. Do not unplug other vehicles from a charger
We know it can be tempting, especially if they are camping at the charger. Others need the charger too! Not to mention the touching someone else's property that is a massive no, no! In most cases, you'll find yourself unable to unplug a car due to locking mechanisms in the car.
6. Do not park in a charging space without plugging in
Only park in a charging space if you intend on charging your EV. The spaces aren't just there because you bought an electric car. Be logical, you wouldn't park at a service station pump without filling up!
7. Seek approval to use someone's power outlet
If you need to plug-into someone's personal power outlet, seek approval first. It's their electricity and you don't want your recharging to cause a steep incline in their bills without prior approval. Even consider compensating the power provider with the amount it would've cost you to charge at home or at a station.
Are you read to join the EV-olution? Talk to our novated leasing specialists today to learn how much you can save on your new electric car.