Introduction
Electric vehicles (EVs) are surging in popularity. Above all driven by their environmental benefits but also because of technological advancements. However, concerns about safety at EV charging points are gaining importance, particularly among women. Despite the future of electric vehicles, the safety of female drivers is often overlooked. This leaves many feeling vulnerable when using charging infrastructure, especially in secluded or inadequately lit locations.
Night-time Electric Vehicle Charging Anxiety
In an article for Metro, journalist Tanyel Mustafa reported specific incidents experienced by women drivers.
One seasoned EV driver shared her disturbing experience. She was while driving alone on a rural road, 37 weeks pregnant. With limited battery charge and no nearby charging points in sight, she faced a daunting choice. Waiting alone in a remote area, or driving in the dark in a vehicle without proper lighting. Her decision to continue driving with lights off, following a lead car, highlights the awful options women can sometimes face when searching for EV charging points.
This story resonates with many women who feel unsafe and exposed while charging their EVs. The lack of well-lit areas, monitored CCTV cameras, and emergency contact buttons exacerbates these concerns. According to a survey conducted by Heycar, 80.3% of drivers feel vulnerable when charging their electric cars. A significant proportion expressing dissatisfaction with current security measures.
Another female EV driver emphasised the stark contrast between the safety standards at EV charging sites and traditional petrol stations. Petrol stations offer well-lit forecourts and on-site cashiers, however EV charging points often lack basic security features. As a result drivers can feel isolated and vulnerable, especially during late-night charging sessions.
Consequently, recognising the urgent need to address these concerns, Heycar is campaigning for the implementation of safety standards at charging locations. They advocate for well-lit areas, monitored CCTV surveillance, and emergency contact buttons to enhance the safety and confidence of vulnerable EV users, particularly women.
Research from Keele University further highlights the importance of considering the needs and experiences of different user groups, such as women, in relation to public EV charging. The study highlights women’s concerns about charging in dark, poorly lit, and isolated areas, emphasising the need for inclusive and user-centric charging infrastructure.
Reserve & Charge – Offering REAL Charge Point Reservations
Reserve & Charge is the first UK platform to enable REAL advance EV Charge Point reservations. We work with Charge Point Operators to bring an unrivalled customer experience to EV drivers. Reserve & Charge provides the most advanced and customer-centric EV charging experience.
By integrating Reserve & Charge into their offering, Charge Point Operators allow customers to use their preferred apps to reserve EV Charge Points in advance. Reserve & Charge ensures that Charge Point status and availability is always up to date thereby providing EV drivers the assurance they need.
These extensive benefits can be available to all Electric Vehicle drivers, enhancing convenience, reducing stress associated with range and charging anxiety importantly adding a level of security welcomed by all EV drivers, especially women travelling alone.
Crucially, Reserve & Charge REAL Reservations differ from ‘Reserve NOW’ functionality. This can only be used when drivers are 15 minutes away from a charge point, and EV drivers will be paying for these 15 mins before they even begin charging.
In conclusion, whilst recognising EVs offer undeniable environmental benefits, ensuring the safety and well-being of drivers, especially women, must be prioritised. By implementing robust safety measures and addressing the specific concerns of female EV drivers, we can create a more inclusive and secure environment for all users of electric vehicle
