Safety fears often shape where women choose to charge their electric vehicles (EVs), research has suggested.
The poll of 339 female drivers of EVs for Europcar found 70% considered their personal safety when choosing where to charge. More than half (54%) avoided certain charging locations altogether.
The study underlined the importance of the location and design of EV charging infrastructure to make all EV drivers feel safe when charging their vehicle, said Europcar.
The research also highlighted a clear age divide, with younger women EV drivers far more concerned about safety when choosing where to charge.
Three-quarters (75%) of those aged 35-44 said personal safety influenced their choice of charging location, compared with 65% of 55-65-year-olds.
Among 25-to-34-year-olds, the percentage dropped again, to 63%, albeit still proportionately a large cohort within the sample.
Charging (40%) and battery range (48%) were other key challenges that women cited when driving electric compared to driving petrol or diesel.
Sarah Clarke, consumer marketing manager at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said of the study: “Our findings indicate a potential blind spot when it comes to mainstream EV adoption.
“Two-thirds of women who drive EVs usually choose to charge their vehicle at home. While home charging is the cheapest, safest, and most convenient charging location, more needs to be done to help women feel more secure when charging their vehicles at public charging locations.
“Everyone feels safer at EV charging locations that are well-lit, open, and monitored. Visible CCTV, emergency buttons, and choosing locations near busy public areas help, while apps showing occupancy and safety ratings give extra peace of mind.
“With some thoughtful design and clear safety standards, there is so much that can be done to make EV charging more secure for all drivers. And that will be critical for greater EV adoption,” Clarke added.
- Look out in the March edition of Lighting Journal for a special 15-page focus on electric vehicle charging.
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