LeasePlan Launches New Dashboard Timer To Improve EV Charging Etiquette

THE fleet leasing provider LeasePlan UK is rolling out a new dashboard timer for its EV customers. The company says it will help improve wait times and driver communication at public EV charging stations. 

The launch follows the recent move by Aberdeen and Sheffield city councils to charge drivers who stay too long connected to EV chargepoints. It’s believed that more local authorities will follow suit in a bid to cut down long queues caused by the growing number of EV registrations.

The dashboard timer, named ‘Happy Charger’, will encourage better charging etiquette, says LeasePlan, by giving chargepoint users an easy means of telling other EV drivers how long they think they’ll be. 

The Happy Timer allows the driver to set an estimated time of completion using the timer wheel, which they can then display on their dashboard for other drivers to see. 

Richard Hill, an EV driver who lives and works in south-east England, said:

“On the whole, the EV community is really supportive. However, there’s still a shortage of chargers in some areas, which can lead to quite a stressful situation if you turn up at a service station and find they’re all in use. 

“What’s worse is when you decide to move on to the next station, only to find there’s a queue for those chargers too. I’ve had to make so many excuses, but once I nearly missed a funeral which was the worst feeling of being powerless and sick with worry. 

 “Some drivers will get out of their car and let you know that they just need another 10 minutes. But those that need a full charge often avoid eye contact as they’re conscious they’ll be there a while.”

Commenting on the launch, Neill Emmett, Head of Marketing at LeasePlan UK, said:

“Getting behind the wheel of an EV is an immensely enjoyable experience. Anyone who’s made the switch to an EV will tell you that they’d never go back to a petrol or diesel car. However, as we learn the new process of EV charging, there are a few important etiquette rules we all need to follow, particularly when charging in public.

 “Our new Happy Charger dashboard timer is all about giving EV drivers greater peace of mind when they’re out and about and simplifying the charging experience. There’s a great sense of cameraderie within the EV-driving community, so by adding that extra layer of transparency we can ensure we’re all being considerate of one another and enhancing the experience for all.”

All fleet drivers who lease an EV through LeasePlan UK will receive a Happy Charger in their driver pack, the company added.