- Vauxhall has launched a new ‘Etiquette Guide’ to help electric vehicle (EV) drivers
- The guide, created in partnership with Debrett’s, provides clear guidance on various aspects of EV ownership
- A survey conducted by Vauxhall shows that a lack of guidance on using public EV chargers deters drivers from switching to an EV
- The guide includes advice on using public charging points, negotiating charging time with others, and being a good EV house guest
- Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and will offer electric variants across its entire car and van lineup by 2024, becoming an electric-only brand by 2028
- Read the full guide at: https://www.vauxhall.co.uk/electric/ev-etiquette-guide.html
Vauxhall has partnered with Debrett’s, a leading British etiquette expert, to release an ‘Etiquette Guide’ designed specifically for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. The Guide to Electric Vehicle Etiquette offers tips and guidance to help drivers navigate various aspects of public EV life.
The release of this guide is timely as Vauxhall’s research indicates that the lack of guidance on using public EV chargers is a significant deterrent for UK drivers considering the switch to electric vehicles. Additionally, many drivers expressed uncertainty about EV ownership etiquette.
Compiled with input from EV drivers and industry experts, the guide covers a wide range of topics including queueing at public charging hubs, negotiating charging time with other drivers, and being a considerate EV house guest.
One interesting finding from Vauxhall’s research is the difference in behavior between EV drivers and petrol/diesel vehicle owners. A majority of plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle drivers indicated that they would allow another driver who needed less charge to go ahead of them in the queue at a public charge point. In contrast, only a small percentage of petrol and diesel drivers would do the same at a petrol station.
The research also found that many drivers feel uncomfortable asking another driver to vacate a space at a petrol station or EV charger if they need to refill or charge. To address this potential issue, Vauxhall’s guide provides advice on how to approach other drivers politely when their vehicle is almost fully charged.
Vauxhall’s research also highlighted the problem of misuse of EV charging bays by petrol and diesel drivers, with nearly half of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle drivers reporting that they have been unable to park in a charging bay because a non-electric vehicle was occupying the space. Additionally, some EV drivers faced difficulties with charging bay sizes not accommodating their vehicles.
When it comes to home charging, a significant number of drivers mentioned that they would expect visitors who asked to charge their EV at their home to cover the electricity costs. The guide suggests discussing this matter politely with the host, considering electricity tariffs to charge at the cheapest time, and perhaps leaving a small token of appreciation as a parting gift. Alternatively, drivers can rent charging facilities from nearby private residents through companies like Vauxhall’s partner, JustPark.
Liz Wyse from Debrett’s stated that the new Guide to Electric Vehicle Etiquette aims to address uncertainties and provide clear guidance on charging and parking protocols, contributing to a civilized and agreeable EV experience.
Vauxhall’s commitment to electrification includes the introduction of the Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric in 2023, offering customers a choice of six fully electric passenger vehicles. By 2024, Vauxhall plans to offer a fully electric variant for every model in its lineup and become an electric-only brand by 2028, seven years ahead of the UK Government deadline. Furthermore, Vauxhall already provides a fully electric lineup for its light commercial vehicle (LCV) range and is the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer.
The Guide to Electric Vehicle Etiquette also addresses other areas of concern, such as queuing properly at public charge points and following EV-dedicated signage. A majority of respondents in the survey felt that there is an inadequate number of public signs on UK roads to help EV drivers find suitable charging points.
James Taylor, Managing Director of Vauxhall, emphasized that the guide aims to make owning an electric vehicle as easy as possible and addresses the day-to-day questions that prospective EV owners may have.
To read Vauxhall’s Guide to Electric Vehicle Etiquette, please visit: https://www.vauxhall.co.uk/electric/ev-etiquette-guide.html.
*Survey of 2,000 UK motorists conducted by OnePoll, May 2023