Parking rules branded a 'minefield' for drivers as electric vehicle owners risk 'charge rage' chaos

Over a third of drivers have admitted to frequently using the tactic on multiple occasions, which could cause fury for drivers genuinely looking to charge.

The data found that the issue of "ghost charging" is particularly problematic in larger cities including Cardiff, Birmingham and Belfast.

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Seven in 10 drivers agree that there is a lack of etiquette within the electric vehicle community, with 88 per cent of people saying they have been frustrated at public chargers.

Common issues at charging stations include charger hogging (34 per cent), long waiting times (31 per cent), poor parking skills (29 per cent) and drivers taking the wrong side of the charger (26 per cent).

Trish Devlin, customer director at Sainsbury’s Smart Charge, which commissioned the research, said there was a need for electric vehicle drivers to be considerate of others.

She added: “We know that the rules around EV charging can be a minefield, but Smart Charge aims to make everyday life easier for drivers.

"We’re always listening to our customers and want to help solve common problems, creating a better experience for all.

“Smart Charge is designed to offer a unique and convenient service, providing wide and accessible parking bays, an easy-to-use contactless payment system and plenty of practicality for customers."

There are more than 400 ultra-rapid Smart Charge bays located at Sainsbury's stores around the country, with many more expected to be installed before the end of the year.

EV drivers can collect Nectar points when charging, allowing them to benefit when charging and slash their shopping bills by spending the points.

According to the latest data from the Zapmap database, there are 64,775 electric vehicle charging devices across almost 34,000 locations.

In June 2024 alone, more than 2,230 devices were installed and added to the database. There are now 46 per cent more public chargers across the UK than at the same point last year.

To help motorists deal with potential issues they may see at charging stations around the UK, Sainsbury's partnered with etiquette expert Williams Hanson to advise drivers on the best ways to charge their EVs in a considerate manner.

Hanson, who hosts Keeping Up Appearances: The Luxury Podcast, advised motorists to think twice about whether they need to charge or just want somewhere convenient to park by avoiding "ghost charging".

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He added: "It’s been an absolute honour helping to educate the British public on appropriate social etiquette when it comes to navigating the EV world as no one likes an awkward encounter or a charge hog.

"By working with Sainsbury’s Smart Charge to create an EV Etiquette Guide, we’re hoping to reduce the frustrations felt by the electric vehicle community, so people can have a more enjoyable, stress-free experience.”