Kernow Kensa runs a Skoda ENYAQ iV 60 2022 electric car.
What do you think of the UK public charging network in general?
The UK charging network is expanding at a considerable rate, inline with the increase in sales of EVs. The balance of supply and demand isn’t exact in some areas as there are still less rapid public chargers than ideal, for example the South West and Cornwall in particular, though it is improving.
I have now travelled from the Midlands to visit family in Cornwall and realise that it is easily done but this maybe a different matter in the height of the tourist season when better planning and the likelihood of needing to queue for a charger will be more likely. Particularly with a longer range car most of my charging is done at home with less frequent public charging required, (compared to my other 120-140 mile BMW i3 that I used previously).
Sign-up to Electric Road now to receive a FREE ‘Guide to the Best Electric Cars’, a weekly Newsletter and to win some great prizes!
What and where are your favourite UK public chargers?
IONITY: Skelton Lake, Leeds, Gretna Services and Cullompton Services
What’s been your best experience with a UK public charger?
Arriving at IONITY, Cullompton and finding them all vacant and ready to use.
What’s been your worst experience with a UK public charger?
Arriving at Stafford South Services where there were 2 Gridserve chargers (at the time) just starting to charge two cars. The Audi e-tron owner was determined to get to 95% charge from 25% and the VW ID.3 said they only needed a quick top-up but stayed for 45-mins! After waiting for 45-mins we only needed a 20-min top-up to get home.
What’s got to change about public charging in the UK to get more people driving electric cars?
For all new owners to understand that charging up to 80% is quick and normal. Trying to charge over 80% (which slows considerably) when there is a queue of EVs waiting is not acceptable in most cases.
If charging stations are busy then PHEV drivers also should be aware that BEV drivers need to charge, as they have no alternative, so should just have quick stops, if necessary, or let the BEV use the charger instead.
A number of quick top-up stops is usually quicker on a longer trip and more considerate of your fellow EV driver’s needs. If we can all work together then we can make the EV experience easier for all.
See other public charging reports here
