For electric vehicle (EV) drivers grappling with the uncertainty of wait times at charging stations, Chargefox has revealed a solution aimed at alleviating frustrations. The company’s latest updates to its smartphone application offer users insights into the duration other EVs have been utilizing chargers, along with critical information about their current state of charge (SOC) for ultra-fast DC chargers.
The introduction of these features comes in response to Chargefox’s implementation of idle fees, which levy a charge of $1 per minute starting from 10 minutes after an EV completes its charging session at select stations across Australia. This move seeks to deter vehicle owners from leaving their fully charged cars occupying busy DC charge stations unnecessarily.
Chargefox emphasizes that empowering drivers with such information enables them to make more informed decisions about their charging locations and timing, ultimately enhancing the experience for all users of the network.
While acknowledging that no single feature or initiative can completely eradicate queuing issues or address the behavior of a minority of inconsiderate drivers, Chargefox positions these updates as part of a broader strategy to promote courteous charging practices and optimize charger availability.
Owned by the Australian Motoring Services, which is in turn under the umbrella of the Mobility Clubs of Australia including prominent names like NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, and RACT Chargefox offers a comprehensive network of charging solutions.
Ranging from AC chargers with capacities between 7kW and 22kW to DC fast chargers capable of delivering rates of 50kW, 150kW, or 350kW, the company caters to diverse EV charging needs across various locations. Additionally, the pricing per kWh varies depending on the specific Chargefox charging location, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for EV drivers nationwide.