Plenty of drivers bicker at public charging stations, report reveals
B.C. Hydro is concerned about the number of car-fuffles breaking out at electric vehicle charging stations.
A B.C. Hydro report found almost a quarter of EV drivers surveyed have bickered with a fellow EV driver at a public charging station, and almost one-third have witnessed such an argument.
Authorities say they believe the reason for the number of arguments is the lack of awareness of proper EV charging etiquette.
For example, the survey found that more than 30 per cent of EV owners have had another EV driver unplug, or try to unplug, their vehicle while it was charging at a public station.
Twenty-four per cent have experienced “extreme frustration” when other EV drivers use a public charger to fully charge their vehicles. The survey also found the majority of EV drivers will go out of their way to take advantage of public charging, says B.C. Hydro.
EV drivers are encouraged to charge at home to avoid problems.
B.C. Hydro says there are more than 1,700 public charging stations available across the province, including B.C. Hydro’s network of fast chargers that it continues to expand.
When using these chargers, B.C. Hydro recommends EV drivers follow basic charging etiquette, including:
■ Take only what is needed. Limit charging to a maximum of around 30 to 40 minutes.
■ Be careful where you park. Avoid parking at an EV charging stall if not charging or waiting to charge.
■ Use the PlugShare app to keep others informed: leave a comment on PlugShare if there is a problem with a station or to let other drivers know when to expect the charger will be available.
■ Don’t unplug other vehicles unless there is a note on the vehicle or on PlugShare giving permission to do so.