With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, understanding and practicing good charging etiquette is essential to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for all EV owners. In this article, we explore charging etiquette and some best practices to follow at public charge points.

1. First things first, follow signage and rules

Adhere to all posted signs and rules when entering a charging station. Some chargers are designated for specific vehicles or have time restrictions. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to fines or possibly towing. Additionally, respect designated EV parking spots and do not park in them if you are not actively charging.

2. Prioritise charging for those most in need

While we know it’s not always possible, one of the key principles of EV charging etiquette is to prioritise charging for those who need it most. If your EV has enough range to reach your next destination or another charging station, consider waiting until you truly need a charge. This is especially important at public charging stations where availability might be limited, and someone else might urgently need to power up to reach their destination.

Once your EV is sufficiently charged, be sure to move it from the charging spot promptly. Staying longer than necessary not only inconveniences other EV owners but can also lead to additional costs. When using fast chargers, keep in mind that they are often in high demand, especially on busy motorway routes. Be aware of what power your EV can handle and use fast chargers for quick top-ups rather than bringing your battery from nearly empty to full. This approach helps ensure that more drivers can access a charge when they need it.

3. Monitor the public charger or a charging app

Most public EV chargers now feature large screens or colour indicators that signal how much power your car has. It's a good habit to keep an eye on these displays or use one of the many apps available to monitor your state of charge. These tools can help you better plan your charging sessions and avoid potential conflicts with other users.

To steer clear of the stress that comes with searching for a charging station at critical moments, it's wise to plan your trips in advance. Know the locations of charging stations along your route and have a backup plan in case your first choice is occupied or out of service. The Nevo Journey Planner is another great tool for this, helping you map out the best route with all available charging stops tailored specifically to your EV.

4. Be mindful of cable connection and never unplug another vehicle

When using public chargers, make sure the charging cable is neatly managed and does not create a tripping hazard. After charging, be sure to properly return the cable to its holder. This small act of consideration helps maintain a safe and orderly charging environment.

Additionally, never unplug another vehicle from a charging station unless you have explicit permission or it’s clear that the vehicle has finished charging. Unplugging someone else’s car is not only inconsiderate but can also significantly disrupt their travel plans. Remember, common decency should always take precedence.

5. Offer a helping a hand

If you notice someone who seems new to public charging, consider kindly offering assistance or sharing helpful information. Education and positive reinforcement can go a long way in building a community of responsible EV owners. Additionally, advocating for better charging infrastructure and raising public awareness can lead to improved experiences for everyone.

Our Nevo experts still recommend charging at home whenever possible. Home charging reduces the demand on public infrastructure and ensures that you start your day with a full battery. Plus, as we’ve highlighted before, charging at home is usually more cost-effective and convenient.

As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, our Nevo experts believe that these etiquette tips will become increasingly important for ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of electric mobility without unnecessary inconvenience. In today’s connected world, charging should be seen as an opportunity to take a break—whether that’s enjoying a coffee, catching up on emails, or browsing your favourite socials—rather than a source of stress.