Busting Up Misconceptions About EV Charging: A Narrative of Real-World Questions

numocity
December 3, 2024

If you’ve ever struggled with EV charging, you’re not alone. From charging speeds to locked cables, there’s a lot of confusion around how EVs and charge points work. Recently, I found myself answering these exact questions at an EV community event. What unfolded was a lively discussion filled with common concerns—and some straightforward solutions.

Why Is My EV Charging So Slowly?

The first question came from a new EV owner. “I was at a public charger yesterday, and my car wasn’t charging as fast as I thought it would. Is something wrong with it?”

This is a common concern, and the answer lies in understanding charging compatibility. Charging speed depends on a combination of factors:

The type of charger (AC vs. DC fast chargers).
Your EV’s maximum charging capacity.
Environmental conditions, such as cold weather.

For example, if your EV supports 50 kW charging but you’re at a 150 kW fast charger, it will still only charge at 50 kW. Similarly, charging slows down as the battery approaches 100% to preserve its health.

We recommended trying smart charging software, which provides real-time insights into the charging process and helps manage expectations.

Why Is the Cable Stuck in the Charger?

Another one brought up an issue that frustrates many EV drivers. “The cable got stuck at a public charger yesterday. I had to call the station support to get it released. Is this normal?”

Yes, it is—though it might not feel that way at the moment. Modern charge points lock the cable during charging to prevent theft or accidental disconnections. The solution is usually simple: stop the session using the app or RFID card you used to start it. If the cable still doesn’t release, the charge point operator can unlock it remotely.

Charge point management platforms even allow drivers to troubleshoot such issues within the app itself, making these hiccups less stressful.

Why Do I Need So Many Apps to Charge?

The most often asked question that resonated with many: “Why do I need to download a new app for every charge point I use? It’s exhausting.”

This is a valid complaint in a fragmented charging ecosystem. While many networks have proprietary apps, solutions like NumoHub are changing the game. NumoHub acts as a roaming hub, allowing you to access charge points across multiple networks with just one app.

Think of it as the universal key to EV charging, No more juggling apps—just one platform for a seamless experience.

What Is Smart Charging, and Why Should I Care?

Many fleet managers have these questions that lean toward the technical side. “I keep hearing about Smart Charging, but I don’t see why it’s such a big deal.”

Smart Charging is all about optimizing energy usage. For fleets like Uber, Zomato, FedEx, Amazon, IKEA etc, it means saving money and reducing strain on the grid by:

Charging during off-peak hours.
Prioritizing renewable energy sources.
Managing multiple vehicles simultaneously without overloading the power supply.

Platforms like Fleet Management System automate these processes, ensuring that fleet managers can focus on operations, not charging logistics.

Why Can’t I Find a Charge Point When I Need It?

Several people shared this frustration. “I was driving last weekend and couldn’t find a working charge point near me. Why is this still a problem?”

Discoverability is one of the biggest challenges for EV drivers. While the physical infrastructure is expanding, software often lags behind. Using these platforms (like GO EC, Charge&Go, VelociCharge, Kurrent Charge , Charge Point, Tesla, etc) drivers can access real-time data on nearby charge points, availability, and even compatibility with their EVs. Route planning tools are a lifesaver, too, ensuring you never get caught off guard on long trips.

Is EV Charging Software Secure?

An important question about cybersecurity. “With all the data these platforms handle, how secure are they?”

Security is a top priority in the EV ecosystem. Platforms follow the OCA protocol and undergo various certifications like ISO 27001:2022 standards, which means they follow strict protocols for protecting personal data, securing transactions, and maintaining system integrity.

Your information is encrypted, safe, and regular updates keep the platform resilient against evolving threats.

A Unified Answer: Smart Software Is the Key

As the questions are being raised, one thing became clear: most EV charging frustrations stem from a lack of integration or understanding. That’s where platforms like Numocity come in. By offering Smart Charging, Roaming Hubs, real-time troubleshooting, and secure data management, they simplify the entire process—for EV drivers, CPOs, and fleet operators alike.

The takeaway? EV charging doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and a little guidance, it’s easy to enjoy the benefits of going electric.

So, next time you face a charging issue, remember: there’s likely a solution waiting for you in your EV charging app, you’re already one step closer to a seamless experience.