EV Charging Etiquette 101: Your honest guide to a hassle-free EV charging experience

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are slowly becoming popular in the Philippines, with more and more automakers entering the local market, such as the Jetour Ice Cream, Wuling Macaron, and Gameboy, and older entrants, such as the Nissan LEAF. 

With the arrival of EVs comes new challenges for owners, such as understanding new terms and technologies that aren’t typically available in regular gasoline or diesel power cars. 

That said, we have created a quick guide on what you shouldn’t do when you go out to charge your EV or charge your EV at home.  

Wag makikabit sa kapitbahay

Charge your EV using your electricity. We know that electric cars are cheaper to run than their internal combustion engine counterparts, but charging them shouldn’t come at the cost of others.

On average, charging an EV will cost you less than a thousand pesos, from zero to 100% charge. That is less than what you would typically spend on fuel for your average internal combustion engine car.

Wag two timer sa plug - stick to one

While this predominantly concerns AC charging vehicles such as the Wuling Macaron and Jetour Ice Cream, it's best to let them have a socket. Adding other devices may interrupt their charge and strain your electric system.

We understand that there are fail-safes in place for these vehicles. Still, you can never be too sure, especially with the more affordable range of electrified mobility—that's why it's always a good idea to leave one socket open in a dual socket plug. 

Wag kang kumuha ng hindi sayo

As EV infrastructure slowly develops and more EVs are on the road, there will come a time when charging stations will become full of cars. You must respect those who came before you and are charging their EVs.

Don’t just yank out a charger for another car to charge yours, be considerate and wait your turn. Conversely, you can find a different location or utilize an AC wall socket if one is available or applicable to your EV.  

Magtanong bago iplug sa socket

EV owners needing a quick charge can charge almost anywhere, provided they have the correct adaptors. They can charge in restaurants, malls, and other areas where a wall socket can be found.

But don’t just plug right in without asking; you still need to ask the establishment's permission to plug in for a quick charge. It's a common courtesy; they will probably ask you more about your EV. It will be a great conversation starter to buy you more time to charge.

If they decline, don’t force the issue and look elsewhere that is more accommodating. You can also use this information and spread it with other EV users so that they know where to go when they need a quick charge.

Magdala ng protection - surge protection

It's always a good idea to bring protection if you are going to charge using a wall socket. While charging stations already have this protection in place, some may still need to. 

You need to bring an extension cord with a surge protection feature to ensure your EV charges properly. Electrical surges can happen anytime, and some places will not have the proper electrical systems to handle this situation. 

When an electrical surge happens, it can quickly fry components of your vehicle that can damage its electricals, leading to costly repairs.  This is why having a surge protector for your EV while charging is essential.

Pag di pasok wag pilitin

Know your vehicle’s charging type, more expensive and mainstream EVs will carry a Type 2 charger which will let them top up with DC fast charging. Other cars, such as the Wuling and Jetour, have AC charging, meaning they can only use Type 1 slow charging.

While there are adaptors available in the market to let Type 1 vehicles charge in Type 2 stations, make sure that you buy them from reputable sources and check with the manufacturer if it is supported by the vehicle just to be safe. 

Alamin kung kailangan magunplug

Overcharging an EV is a real issue as it can damage the battery. However, most automakers do have fail-safes or systems that automatically stop charging when the car detects its battery is fully charged.

However, it might not be the case for more affordable EVs, so it's always best to go with the manufacturer’s recommended charging time. If the brand or the manual says to charge the vehicle for only six hours, stick to it to avoid unnecessary battery wear and tear. 

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