Let’s talk about something that affects all EV drivers – charging etiquette! As EV uptake grows in Australia, public charging stations are becoming busier. Unlike petrol or diesel cars, which take just a few minutes to refuel, EV charging often takes anywhere between 15-60 minutes. This extra time spent at charging stations makes it even more important for drivers to follow basic etiquette.

Think of it like sharing a communal kitchen – it works best when everyone follows some basic courtesy rules, right? Understanding and practising courteous behaviour at public stations is essential for creating a positive experience for all EV users.

In this article, we’ll highlight the importance of EV charging etiquette and share practical tips to make public charging stations more efficient and enjoyable for all.
 

Why does EV Charging Etiquette Matter? 

Picture this: you’re on a road trip, your battery’s running low, and you pull up to a charging station only to find cars that finished charging hours ago still occupying the spots. Frustrating, right? That’s exactly why good charging etiquette matters! As our EV community grows, working together to minimise wait times and prevent unnecessary frustration ensures everyone gets their fair share of charging time.

When drivers respect etiquette, such as promptly moving their car once charging is complete, keeping the area clear for others, and being considerate of the time spent at a charger, everyone benefits. This cooperation not only improves the overall driving experience for individual EV users but also promotes community culture and spirit.

Basic Rules of EV Charging Etiquette

Don’t Hog the Charger

We get it – sometimes you might get caught up shopping or grabbing a coffee while your car charges. However, being mindful about the time you spend at an electric vehicle charging station can go a long way for others. Here are a few ways you can be considerate and efficient:

• Understand your EV’s Charging Needs: Most EVs charge fastest between 20% and 80% State of Charge (SoC). Beyond 80%, the speed slows significantly, meaning it takes much longer to gain additional charge. That’s where etiquette comes into play. If reaching 100% isn’t necessary, consider unplugging around 80% SoC, particularly during busy times, to free up the charger for others.
• Choose a charger that matches your EV capability: Every EV has a maximum charging speed. If your car’s maximum charging speed is 50kW for example, using a 350kW charger won’t make it charge faster. Therefore, consider using a charger that matches your car’s capabilities – this leaves higher-powered chargers available for vehicles that can fully benefit from them.
• Don’t forget to keep tabs on your charging progress: We recommend regularly checking your charging progress (e.g., via the Evie app) so you know exactly when to unplug and avoid unnecessarily occupying a charger. Once your vehicle reaches your desired state of charge, unplug promptly to free up the charger for others. 

This simple habit is especially important at busy stations or during peak times, ensuring everyone gets a fair chance to charge.

Only Use Charging Spots if You’re Charging 

Charging bays are for charging – not parking. In the same way, it’s important to move your car once it’s fully charged, it’s equally important not to occupy a charging spot unless you’re actively using it. 

Leaving your vehicle in a charging bay without plugging in can prevent someone in urgent need of a top-up from accessing it. By keeping these spots available for active charging, we can ensure a smoother, more accessible experience for everyone.

Limit Your Idle Time 

New to public charging? We’ve all been there! To limit your idle time before and after charging your EV, we recommend familiarising yourself with how to charge EVs at public charging stations before you pull up – it’ll save time for everyone maxisiming charger availability.
 

How to Communicate with Other EV Drivers 

Use Apps to stay connected 

A little communication can make a big difference when it comes to EV charging. Apps like PlugShare are great for sharing updates on charger availability or leaving general comments about specific chargers, helping fellow drivers plan their stops more efficiently. 

If you’re using an Evie charger, the Evie App offers a handy feature to check the real-time State of Charge (SOC) for vehicles actively charging. This means you can see how full a car’s battery is at an occupied charger, giving you a better idea of when it might become available. Simply open the Evie App and navigate to the plug section screen to access this feature.

The Evie app also gives you access to Evie Autocharge, which requires a one-time activation to access our plug and charge feature. That’s right – no app or taps required. Read more about how to activate and use Autocharge here. 

By using these tools, we can create a more informed and efficient charging experience for everyone!  

Be Polite and Patient 

Whether you’re leaving updates via an app like Plugshare, or having in-person interactions at a charger, a little patience and politeness go a long way, helping to create a safe and inviting environment for everyone.

Other Helpful Tips for Public EV Charging 

Maintaining good etiquette at EV charging stations isn’t just about communication – it’s also about keeping things tidy and considerate for others. Here are a couple of extra things to keep in mind:

• Return the charging cable to the holder, making sure it’s neatly coiled to avoid creating tripping hazards or tangles.  

• Pick up after yourself to keep the charging area clean and welcoming for the next driver. 

• Be mindful of how you park, ensuring there’s enough space for other vehicles to access the charger easily. 

Small actions like these make a big difference in creating a positive charging experience for everyone.   

Why Good Charging Etiquette Matters 

Public chargers are a shared resource, and how we use them impacts everyone. As EV adoption continues to grow, practising good EV charging etiquette helps reduce stress and wait times, especially at busy stations. It also makes EV driving more enjoyable and sustainable for all. 

By following these tips, you’re not just being courteous—you’re contributing to a smoother, more efficient charging experience and supporting the wider EV community.