Over half of EV drivers rely on public chargers, ChargeLab survey finds

While 86% of EV drivers in the US now have access to a home charger, 59.6% still use public chargers weekly.

Hardware and software for DC chargers / March 4, 2024

By Liam McLoughlin

The survey found that nearly six out of US EV drivers ten rely on public EV chargers, despite 86% having access to home charging. Image: © BiancoBlue-Dreamstime

The findings come in a new survey of 500 EV drivers by US EV charging software company ChargeLab, which says this underscores the need for continued investment in public charging infrastructure.

The survey also sheds light on the factors that impact driver satisfaction at public charging stations. These factors, in order of importance, include:

Speed: EV drivers prioritize faster charging, emphasizing the need for efficient DC fast chargers. Software that monitors chargers remotely can also enhance overall speed and reliability.

Payment convenience: Flexibility in payment options, including mobile payments, is crucial. Off-peak charging discounts or other custom pricing schemes can also foster user loyalty.

Accessibility and location: Map apps are the primary tool for locating EV chargers. Software supporting the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) is crucial to improving EV roaming.

Cleanliness and maintenance: Drivers expect charging stations to be clean and well-maintained. User feedback through dedicated support lines or apps contributes to station upkeep.

Brand reputation: Familiarity with brand logos influences EV drivers' choices. White labeling charging stations to match established brands can attract more customers.

User interface & ease of use: Drivers prioritize an intuitive interface for an easy and efficient charging process. Smart software can enhance the user journey, making it accessible and user-friendly.

Another interesting angle illuminated by the survey is drivers' willingness to share data to improve the EV charging experience. The majority are open to sharing session and vehicle data, suggesting that there's meaningful consumer interest in getting EV charging right. Only 3.4% expressed reluctance to share data.

"There's no shortage of news coverage on the problems with public charging—but what makes us excited about this survey is it reframes the issue as an opportunity," says Zak Lefevre, CEO of ChargeLab. "These EV drivers are echoing the same stories we hear from our customers. Everyone is happy if you can make the charging experience fast, easy, and affordable."