Electrify America tests 85% charging cap to ease EV charger congestion

In an attempt to tackle the growing pains of electric vehicle adoption, Electrify America is piloting a new program at 10 of its Southern California charging stations. The program limits EV charging to 85% battery capacity, a move aimed at reducing wait times and easing congestion at busy charging hubs.

This pilot program is no small feat, considering the diverse range of EV models EA caters to, each with its own charging characteristics and driver expectations. The initiative is a direct response to customer feedback, showcasing EA's commitment to improving the charging experience. The company plans to monitor station performance and customer sentiment, making adjustments as necessary.

It's important to remember that the final 15% of a battery charge takes significantly longer than the rest - often to the tune of doubling the charging time. By capping charging at 85%, EA hopes to encourage quicker turnarounds at the chargers, freeing them up for other drivers. For those concerned about range, EA assures that the chosen pilot stations are located in areas with ample alternative charging options.

Previously, Tesla implemented a similar charging cap at its Supercharger stations, a move that has been met with mostly positive feedback from its user base. VW ID.4 drivers, who currently enjoy free charging at EA stations might see this as limiting the benefits of their free topups, but will now also get shorter waits, so perhaps even they will welcome the change.

Via