TRANSPORT EVOLVED PANEL NEWS: DECEMBER 8, 2013, EP. 177. WHOSE POWER IS IT ANYWAY?

EV Channels Review

This episode of Transport Evolved delves into the contentious issue of EV charging etiquette and policy, highlighting two key incidents. The first involves a Nissan Leaf driver arrested for plugging into a school outlet, sparking debate on whether this constitutes theft or a minor inconvenience in the broader push for EV adoption. The hosts and guests discuss the nuances of public property charging, liability concerns, and the perception of EV owners as 'freeloaders.' The second story features a San Francisco police officer facing restrictions on charging his Leaf at work, illustrating the disconnect between promoting EVs and the practical challenges faced by early adopters. The discussion emphasizes the critical need for better education and clear policies at all levels to support EV integration. The episode also touches upon Volvo's autonomous driving fleet plans, a Bitcoin purchase of a Tesla Model S, and the ongoing legislative battles faced by direct-to-consumer sales models like Tesla's, particularly in Ohio. Finally, GM's cancellation of its deal with battery company Envia due to alleged IP theft and the broader trends in EV sales are briefly covered.