Consumer confronts Nissan driver for reserve-parking spot while charging Tesla Model 3, later witnesses her boyfriend relocating car to allow charging, but the consumer took steps to thwart their strategy.
In an effort to address the growing challenges and conflicts associated with public electric vehicle (EV) charging, a Tesla Model 3 owner named Michael Hodde took a practical and inventive approach.
For months, Hodde had noticed a pattern of EV charging spot abuse, with drivers reserving spots for hours, preventing other EV owners from charging their vehicles. In a bid to prevent such incidents, Hodde devised a creative solution: he parked his Tesla Model 3 on the opposite side of the charging spot, extending the charger.
This move, while unconventional, was designed to prevent the offending vehicle from occupying the charging spot when its owner returned. The strategy, known as "ICEing" (when an Internal Combustion Engine vehicle blocks an EV charging spot), is universally considered a hostile and unacceptable act within the EV community.
The incident, which occurred at a ChargePoint charging station, escalated when the Nissan owner, in a fit of frustration, attempted to stop Hodde's EV charge through the ChargePoint app. Fortunately, ChargePoint's customer support was able to remotely restore power after the interruption.
Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter specialising in automotive news, owner stories, and expert analysis, reported this story. The tale serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of knowledge, emphasising the importance of fairness and proper etiquette in the growing EV community.
Stories like this highlight the need for a collective understanding of unspoken rules in the EV community, such as using a spot only when charging, moving your car when a session is complete, and never interfering with another driver's charge.
Michael Hodde's innovative solution and the subsequent incident have sparked conversations and debates within the EV community, with many hailing his actions as a step towards addressing the growing demand for public charging infrastructure. As the demand for public charging infrastructure continues to outpace its supply, incidents like these underscore the need for proper electric vehicle charging station etiquette.
The incident was shared on the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club Facebook page, further spreading awareness about the importance of fairness and respect in the EV community. As more and more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles, it is crucial that they understand and adhere to these unspoken rules to ensure a smooth and efficient charging experience for all.
