EV PUBLIC CHARGING PUT TO THE TEST

EV Channels Review

This video provides a candid, real-world assessment of public EV charging infrastructure in the reviewer's local area, using a Tesla Model Y. The reviewer highlights significant inconsistencies in user experience, particularly concerning ease of use and accessibility. While Instavolt chargers are praised for contactless payment and good charging speeds, the extremely tight parking spaces are a major drawback, deemed unacceptable for disabled users. The Porsche Center charger initially presented issues with card authentication, requiring an app or specific charging card, and delivered a disappointing 35kW charge speed, though the reviewer notes this might be due to unconditioned battery. The Osprey 50kW charger at The Woodman pub performed well, offering contactless payment and a respectable 45kW charge speed even without battery preconditioning. However, the Pod Point charger, despite being new, is heavily criticized for lacking contactless payment or even RFID, forcing users to rely on an app, which the reviewer finds unacceptable in 2024. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that while public charging is improving, the lack of standardized, user-friendly payment options and adequate accessibility remains a significant barrier for widespread EV adoption, especially for those without home charging.