The electric vehicle revolution is here, and it’s a fantastic leap toward a cleaner future. With more EVs on the road than ever, public charging stations are becoming bustling hubs of activity. But just like the unwritten rules of the road, there’s a developing code of conduct for sharing these vital power-up points.
To ensure a smooth, fair, and frustration-free experience for everyone, here’s a guide to the essential charging etiquette every EV driver should know.
1. Don't Be a Charger Hog: Move When You're Done
This is the golden rule of public charging. A charging spot is not a premium parking space. Once your car has enough juice to get you to your next destination or is fully charged, please move it. Leaving your fully charged car plugged in is the EV equivalent of finishing your meal at a busy restaurant and then reading a novel at the table while a line forms outside.
2. The 80% Guideline at Fast Chargers
On a road trip and using a DC Fast Charger? Remember that most EVs charge significantly slower after reaching an 80% state of charge. If others are waiting, it’s courteous to unplug around the 80% mark and let the next person in. That last 20% can take almost as long as the first 80%, so you’ll be freeing up the charger much faster while still getting plenty of range.
3. ICEing Is Never Okay
"ICEing" (pronounced "icing") is the term for an Internal Combustion Engine vehicle parking in an EV charging spot. This is a major frustration for EV drivers who genuinely need a charge. These spots are infrastructure, not just parking. If you don't drive an EV, please leave these spots open.
4. Handle With Care: Keep It Tidy
The charging equipment is shared by everyone. When you're finished, take a moment to properly wrap the cable and place the connector back in its holster. Leaving cables sprawled on the ground creates a tripping hazard, makes the station look messy, and can lead to the equipment getting damaged by weather or being run over. Think of it like returning the nozzle to the pump at a gas station—it’s just good practice.
5. Communication is Key
If you pull up to a station where all chargers are in use, it’s helpful to be proactive. Many EV drivers use charging-specific apps like #PlugShare to "check in" at a station. If someone is checked in, you might be able to message them.
Another great low-tech option is to leave a small, polite note on your dashboard with your phone number, indicating you’d appreciate a text when a spot opens up. A little communication goes a long way in building a positive #EVCommunity.
6. Never Unplug Another EV (With One Rare Exception)
It can be tempting to unplug a car that looks like it’s finished charging, but this is a major breach of etiquette. You don’t know if that person was relying on a full charge for a long journey. Unplugging their car could seriously disrupt their plans.
The only potential exception: If a car is clearly and verifiably 100% charged (the charging light is off or the station screen says "Session Complete"), and it has been sitting there for a significant amount of time, and you have no other options, it may be acceptable. However, the best course of action is always to try contacting the owner first.
7. Pick the Right Charger for Your Needs
Understand the difference between charger types. If you have a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) or plan to be parked for several hours while shopping, a Level 2 charger is perfect for you. DC Fast Chargers are high-powered and designed for quick top-ups, primarily for drivers on long-distance trips. If you have the choice, leave the fast chargers for those who need a rapid charge to get back on the road.
