EV Charging Etiquette for Drivers 

With more electric vehicles (EVs) on Indian roads, public charging stations are busier than ever. Just like sharing any shared resource, EV charging works best when everyone is considerate. Courteous behavior keeps queues moving and prevents frustration. Here are some friendly do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when you plug in.

Don’t Block or Hog the Charger 

Always use a charging bay only when you’re actually charging. Parking in a charger spot without charging or leaving your car plugged in long after it’s full blocks others. This is frustrating for other EV users. 

1. Park only if charging. Drive into a spot or bay only when you intend to plug in. If your EV is already full, move it to a regular parking space. Occupying a charger when not charging is inconsiderate (and in some cities even penalized). 

2. Set a timer or use the app. After you finish charging, unplug and vacate the spot as soon as possible. Many chargers or EV apps let you set alerts when charging is done. That way you won’t forget and unintentionally block the charger. 

3. Avoid 100% charges on fast stations. Rapid chargers slow down after 80%, and topping up that last 20% takes a long time. If you don’t need 100% right away, it’s courteous to top up that 20%, so you don’t keep others waiting. 

Quick tip: Return the charger cable to its port and move your car once charged. Hanging onto a fast-charger bay wastes everyone’s time. 

Avoid ICE-ing and Idle Parking 

EV spots are meant solely for charging. Don’t block a charger bay with a petrol or diesel car or use them as extra parking. For example, valet attendants in malls may not know EVs’ needs, so always confirm your spot is for charging and not merely parking. 

• Look for signage: Many stations have clear markings or signs. If you see a spot labeled “EV Charging”, only EVs actively charging should occupy these bays. Some cities may even fine petrol/diesel cars caught charging spot-hogging. 

• Ask around: If a charger is blocked, politely check with nearby drivers before assuming. Sometimes a friendly chat avoids confusion. 

By following these simple rules, we reduce charging bay frustration and make sure every EV driver gets a turn.

Respect the Queue and Communicate 

Charging stations usually operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Jumping the line is a no-no. If EVs are queued up, wait your turn – no cutting ahead. This helps everyone know who’s next and avoid squabbles. 

• Talk politely: If it’s busy, a quick smile or word with the driver ahead can clarify who’s first. Most drivers will appreciate the courtesy. 

• Share status online: Use apps like PlugShare or EV community groups to share updates and reduce confusion. Some EV clubs in India even have WhatsApp groups where drivers announce a completed charge. By updating others that your car is “done” or “80% done”, you help the next person know it’s almost their turn. 

Remember: treat charging slots like any shared resource. Patience and a quick chat go a long way to avoid misunderstandings. 

Keep Charging Station Clean

Respect the equipment and space. After you charge: 

• Tidy up cables: Coil cables neatly or place them in holders. Never leave the connector dangling or on the ground. Cables and plugs are delicate; returning them properly prevents damage and keeps the station ready for the next user. (It’s the EV equivalent of not leaving the petrol nozzle draped across the forecourt.) 

• Use bins for trash: Dispose of trash in bins, not on the ground. A clean charging area is more pleasant for everyone. 

• Don’t tamper with equipment: Never press the emergency stop or pull on someone’s cable. Only interact with chargers as intended. (For example, to end your session, use the app or tap out, do not hit any red stop buttons, which can knock the charger offline. 

By keeping chargers and parking areas clean and orderly, we respect the growing EV infrastructure and our fellow drivers. Think of it as EV station hygiene, a small courtesy with big benefits. 

Do Not Unplug Someone Else’s Vehicle 

Let’s be clear: never unplug someone else’s EV without permission. The charging connector is usually locked in place until the car finishes charging. Forcibly taking it out can damage both the car and station. Always wait until the person returns, or only touch a plug if the owner explicitly says it’s okay. 

In high-demand areas, tempers can flare, but try to stay cool. Remember that EV charging is still new in India, and everyone’s learning as they go. If someone’s car is taking longer than expected (or even if a non-EV is blocking the spot), stay polite and lend them a helping hand.  

Good charging etiquette is really common courtesy. In fact, many EV users leave notes on their dashboards or windshields indicating how much charge they need or when they expect to finish. If you see such a note, respect it and wait patiently. 

Label Cables and Identify Equipment 

When using portable chargers or community charging cables, it’s helpful to mark your gear, so people know it’s yours. For example, a bit of colored tape or a sticker on your home-to-public charging cord can avoid mix-ups in residential complexes or office parking. Doing so shows thoughtfulness. It prevents someone else from accidentally taking your charger. In busy charging spots, returning connectors to their holsters or hanging them neatly makes life easier for the next driver. 

Special Tips for Fleet Operators 

Companies running multiple EVs (taxis, delivery vans, office cars, etc.) face unique charging challenges. Here are a few pointers if you’re managing a fleet: 

• Schedule charging windows: Assign time slots for each vehicle so chargers aren’t all taken at once. For instance, use an app or whiteboard to book one car on the charger at a time. 

• Mix charger types: If you have chargers at a depot, match them to vehicle needs, slower AC chargers for overnight top-ups, and a couple of DC fast chargers for quick turnarounds. Smart energy management systems can automatically avoid demand spikes. 

• Communicate within the team: Make sure all drivers know the rules: where chargers are, how long each can use one for, and what to do when done. A shared Google Sheet or app notification can remind people to swap vehicles when charged. 

• Keep shared areas tidy: Even for fleets, don’t trash the bay or leave cables everywhere. Professional responsibility goes hand-in-hand with public courtesy. 

Following these practices means your vehicles stay charged without grid tantrums and sets a good example for the community. 

Lead by Example 

India’s EV charging network is still growing, and every user’s behavior sets the tone. By following these simple etiquette tips, you help build a friendly charging culture. New EV drivers will follow your lead, making everyone’s life easier. 

• Be patient: EV charging times range from a few minutes (for top-ups) to an hour or more (for empty batteries). Bring something to do, read a newspaper, or grab a snack. 

• Educate others: If you see a newbie struggling with the charger, offer help or quick advice. A little guidance turns frustration into confidence. 

• Share feedback: If a charger is frequently broken, or parking attendants don’t understand EV bays, let the station operator know. Many companies have helplines or app reporting. Your input can improve the system for everyone. 

In short, treat charging stations as community parking: use them courteously, keep them clean, and respect others’ space. As one EV driver put it, “Treat others the way you want to be treated at the charger.” With everyone doing their part, India’s EV future will be charged with good vibes.