ChargePoint’s Tips to Avoid ‘Charge Rage’

by | Jan 28, 2014

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As electric vehicles become more popular — EV and plug-in EV sales reached about 170,000 by the end of 2013 with 10,000 sales in December alone — congestion at charging stations is bound to happen, ChargePoint says.

To help companies deal with high-demand for charging at work, the EV charging network has compiled a list of how to keep drivers plugged in and avoiding “charge rage.”

  1. Scale Up: Workplaces have recognized they need one charging spot for every two EVs. This allows people to plug in when they get to work and then move their charged car at lunch so others can plug in during the afternoon. It’s also important to anticipate the future need for charging stations. Don’t just install the number of ports needed now, pre-wire and install for what you will need in the years to come.
  2. Location, Location, Location: Install the stations in a place that multiple parking spots can access the port. Ensure there is adequate signage that makes it clear the parking spots are for plug-in vehicles.
  3. Valet “Bowl”: Many companies have a bowl at the front desk where employees leave their keys so that their car, once charged, can be moved to make room for another employee.
  4. Get on the List: Companies have found that creating a community dashboard or email list connecting EV drivers within a company is a good way to ensure cooperation and efficiency in getting everyone plugged in and charged.
  5. Book Your Spot: Some companies treat EV parking spots like a conference room. Also, through ChargePoint, companies can also set up a reservations feature that drivers can access on the mobile app and website.

ChargePoint was among the companies to make the most recent Global Cleantech 100 list and report, published in October. The same month the company launched a $100 million lease-to-own program for EV charging stations. The program aims to help small- and medium-sized companies and municipalities install electric vehicle chargers at no upfront cost.

 

 

 

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