EV drivers want more than one option when it comes to selecting a charger for their electric or plug-in hybrid car.

The figures show one-size-fits-all is definitely not the case for home chargers

New research from installation firm ChargedEV shows that consumers aren’t just focused on price but also other parameters – which it says EV manufacturers and leasing companies need to factor into their business models.

2022 data covering some 8,000 drivers referred to ChargedEV by its partners shows reliability, technical features and aesthetics were more important to customer than just having a value base model charger fitted to their house.

Nearly 70% of drivers paid a premium for their chargers of up to £200, ignoring the base options in favour of more sophisticated models and features.

Meanwhile, 60% of customers chose a tethered charger over a socket installation

And more than one third of drivers required a solar compatibility with their charger.

“When new vehicles are available with thousands of options, paint colours and variants, our experience shows us that consumers want the same level of choice when it comes to selecting their EV chargers,” commented Mark Pymm of ChargedEV.

He added: “With many leasing companies and vehicle OEMs partnering with a single electric vehicle supply equipment manufacturer, the result can be a staggering lack of choice for drivers, who often have complex needs in their charging equipment. Our customer data shows that leasing companies and OEMs would benefit from offering a wider range of chargers to their customers.”