Updated July 2024.

EV charging is not like visiting a petrol station. Here are a few things to keep in mind at public chargers:

 

NEVER park in a charging bay if you are not charging!

  • It is inconsiderate, and illegal in many states!
  • Move your car as soon as it has finished charging.

 

 

 

Avoid charging above 80% at a DC fast charger... 

...Unless nobody is waiting and the distance to your next stop requires additional charging.

  • Others waiting will get increasingly annoyed as your charging slows right down.
    • EV batteries cannot accept charge as quickly once over 80%.
    • Charging from 80-100% can take as long as charging from 10-80%.
  • On a long trip, two partial charges are quicker than one long charge.

 

EV charging offers an opportunity to exercise good manners.

  • Have a chat with another EV driver 😀

 

 

 

Pick the charger to suit your plans.

  • Pick a faster charger if you are just grabbing a takeaway coffee. Pick a slower charger if you have big shopping plans.
  • DC chargers are relatively fast, while AC charging is slower.
  • Chargers with multiple plugs will often share available power between multiple users - try to use an unoccupied charger to avoid slowing down charging for you and others.

If you aren't in a hurry or your car can't benefit from a faster charger, pick the slower charger.

  • The cost of charging generally reflects the speed of charging.
    • 350kW ‘ultra-rapid’ chargers generally cost more than 50kW DC chargers, which generally cost more than slower AC charging (typically 7-22kW).
  • Save money and leave the faster charger for someone who might need it.

 

 

 


 

Be tidy

  • Always return the charger cable to its dock.
  • Never leave your rubbish around the charger.

 

 

 

Checking in on the PlugShare app is strongly encouraged.

  • Others will be able to see that the charger is in use and working.
  • You can get a notification if someone else checks in as ‘waiting to charge’.
  • If you are waiting to charge, you will get a notification when someone ‘checks out’.
  • Logging both faults and successful charging helps others to plan.

Consider also installing the NeedToCharge app.

  • Allows other drivers to send you a message using only your number plate and no other personal details.

 

 

 

 

 

Report faults to the relevant charging provider.

  • Save someone else from wasting their time!

 

If you're trickle-charging at overnight accommodation:

  • Offer to pay a nominal amount for your electricity.
  • Be safe! - don't overload/trip a circuit, charge at a safe rate, don't risk things with extension leads, etc.
  • Be willing to share information! Each conversation you have is an opportunity to advocate for EVs, and bust myths!
  • Offer to make a PlugShare entry for the accommodation provider and explain how it will attract EV driving guests.