A steady advancement in the EV industry has increased the number of EVs on the roads. The industry is projected to experience an impressive CAGR of 94.4% by 2030. The number of charging stations for EVs is growing at an equal rate to support its sustainability. Despite charging stations’ increasing commonality, correctly charging the vehicle is still a concern for numerous drivers. It is understandable since fuel-powered vehicles have been around for a long time.
However, as an EV owner, it is crucial to learn the correct ways to use an EV charging station. It can help you plan and incorporate EV charging sessions into your schedule.
How to Use an EV Charging Station
Select your charging cord
Select the suitable cable built in at the charging station or your car’s manufacturer cable and connect it to the charger.
Connect the EV
Locate your EV’s charging point and connect the charger. Ensure the station’s charging plug is compatible with your vehicle. Although most EV cars support rapid charging, several Ecars have different connectors for regular and fast charging. If the charging plug looks different or unfamiliar, ensure its compatibility.
If you are using your cable, connect it to the charging station and the EV. The charging sockets often have a protective cover that should be lifted to plug the cord.
Authenticate yourself
To initiate the charging session, you need to authenticate yourself for payment. Depending upon the charger, you can do it using your credit or debit card, smartphone, RFID cards, or specific charging apps. Upon identification and payment authentication, the charger will begin the charging session. You can monitor the charging process on the EV’s dashboard, the charging station, or the charging app.
End the session
Similarly, end the charging session using your RFID card or the same charging app.
Unplug the cable
Ideally, the charging cable is locked to the car and you may need to unlock it before removing the connected cable. It is a safety lock to prevent cable theft and minimise the risk of electric shock. Place the unplugged cable back in its original position on the charging station.
Safety Guidelines you must follow
Use certified stations
Ensure using certified charging stations designed with standard safety guidelines. They can prevent overcharging or overheating of charging points and EVs.
Avoid over or under-charging
Avoid overcharging to preserve the battery life span and avoid draining the battery to 0%. Try maintaining the battery status between 20% – 80% for a healthy battery life.
Track battery performance
Monitor the battery regularly for its overall performance. It will ensure the safe operation of your EV. Use it regularly to maintain its overall health. Parking the EV for a long time can impact its mechanical components, like the battery.
Avoid using a damaged charger
Always inspect the charging cable for signs of damage and avoid using it.
Avoid charging in extreme conditions
Although EVs can function in mostclimate conditions, charging them in extreme freezing or heating temperatures can damage the battery. It is recommended to charge the EV in wet conditions only if it has not been exposed to water.
EV Charging Etiquettes
Plan ahead
It can help you plan your schedule strategically before beginning your journey. You can make well-informed decisions with an awareness.
Don’t charge 100%
It is not recommended to charge an EV up to 100% unless you need it for an extended trip. It can degrade the battery faster. DC also reduce the charging speed after charging the battery to 80%. Charging it up to 80% can save you time and battery life.
Move promptly
Once your EV is charged, try to move it as soon as possible, allowing others to use the charging.
Don’t unplug others
It is impolite to unplug other EVs from charging stations unless they are 100%.
Help other drivers
Be patient with other EV drivers as they may be unfamiliar with proper charging etiquette. Assist them in ensuring a smooth transition for them into EV mobility.
Tips for smart charging
Know your EV
It is essential for EV owners to understand and track the time their EV requires to charge. Having a rough estimate can help you plan the charging time mindfully.
Carry extension cord
Although it is not a basic necessity and may not be required in regular charging stations, carrying the extension cord with you can be helpful in unexpected situations. These cords often come with their earthing facility, allowing you to charge using a wall socket when you cannot find a public charger and the battery is low.
Use charging apps
Charging apps can help you locate the nearest and most compatible chargers, manage the charges easily, find helpful features of the charger model and various other tips.
Keep a credit card or digital wallet
Public chargers in India primarily use credit cards or digital wallets. Ensure to set up these payment methods to ease your charging experience.
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