CNN recently reported on a growing issue in the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry – charger hogs. These are individuals who linger at fast charging stations, preventing other EV drivers from accessing the chargers and causing long wait times. The problem arises from a lack of understanding of how fast chargers work and a reluctance to unplug once a certain battery percentage is reached.
The article highlights a specific incident where the author experienced a four-hour delay in getting home due to charger hogs. The author explains that fast chargers are designed to quickly charge EV batteries up to a certain percentage, typically around 80%. Beyond this point, charging speeds slow down significantly to protect the battery, making it inefficient for drivers to wait for a full charge at a fast charging station.
To address this issue, Electrify America, one of the largest charging companies in the US, has implemented a solution at select charging stations in California. Once a car’s battery reaches 85% charge, the charging automatically stops, and the driver is prompted to unplug and leave the station. Failure to do so results in additional fees for idle time, encouraging drivers to be more considerate of others waiting to charge their EVs.
The article also delves into the reasons behind charger hogging, such as a lack of awareness about charging speeds past 80% and the scarcity of fast chargers in certain areas. It emphasizes the importance of educating EV owners on proper charging etiquette and the need for charging companies to expand their networks to meet the growing demand for EV charging.
Furthermore, the article discusses the potential for more nuanced approaches to managing charger usage, such as implementing variable pricing based on demand or charging patterns. However, for now, Electrify America is focused on implementing clear and straightforward solutions to address the immediate issue of charger hogging.
In conclusion, the article calls for EV drivers to be more considerate and mindful of others when using fast charging stations. By understanding how fast chargers work and being willing to unplug once a sufficient charge is reached, drivers can help alleviate congestion at charging stations and ensure a smoother experience for all EV owners.