Women are avoiding certain public EV chargers over safety concerns
Car changing is a big deal
New research shows that more than half of women electric car drivers avoid public charging stations due to safety concerns, highlighting a hidden barrier to electric car adoption.
Is your electric car charging spot putting you at risk? Many women think so.
Safety concerns are shaping how women drivers use public EV chargers, according to new research from Europcar Mobility Group, a global car rental and mobility provider. The study found that 70% of women consider personal safety when choosing where to charge, and over half actively avoid certain locations.
The findings coincide with Global Women in EV Day, an industry initiative aimed at encouraging more women to drive electric cars. Europcar’s research highlights that while home charging remains the preferred option for two-thirds of women, public charging safety is becoming a major factor in the EV experience.
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Older women are less cautious than their younger counterparts. Here’s what the research found:
- 63% of women aged 25-34 avoid certain chargers, compared with 44% of women aged 55-64.
- Women aged 35-44 are the most safety-conscious, with 75% saying it influences their choice of charging location.
Sarah Clarke, consumer marketing manager at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said: “Making public EV charging safe is essential. Well-lit, open stations with CCTV, emergency buttons, and busy surroundings give drivers peace of mind. Apps that show occupancy and safety ratings can also reassure users.”
Charging accessibility is already a challenge for women: 40% cite finding chargers as difficult, while 48% worry about battery range. Europcar’s research shows that planning your route, checking real-world range, and choosing secure, reliable public chargers are important for a safe EV journey.
Here are some tips for staying safe while charging your electric car:
- Choose well-lit, visible charging stations in busy areas.
- Use apps that show real-time occupancy and safety ratings.
- Keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight.
- Prefer stations with CCTV, emergency buttons, or staff monitoring.
- Plan your route and charging stops to avoid isolated areas.
Europcar hopes these findings will drive improvements in public EV infrastructure, making charging safer and more accessible for everyone. Because as Clarke points out: “Ensuring safety isn’t just about peace of mind – it could be the difference in whether women embrace electric driving at all.”
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