LeasePlan has launched a new dashboard timer for its EV customers, which it says could help improve charging wait times and driver communications.

The charger timer gives EV drivers an easy means of telling other charge point users how long they think they’ll be

Included in all driver packs for EV leases, the ‘Happy Charger’ timer is intended to encourage better charging etiquette by giving charge point users an easy means of telling other EV drivers how long they think they’ll be. Similar to parking disc clocks, the driver can set an estimated time of completion using the timer wheel, which they can then display on their dashboard for other drivers to see.

The launch follows the recent move by Aberdeen and Sheffield city councils to charge drivers who stay too long in EV charge points – with more local authorities expected to follow suit in a bid to cut down long queues caused by the growing number of EV drivers.

Richard Hill, an EV driver who lives and works in South East England, said: “On the whole, the EV community is really supportive. However, there’s still a shortage of chargers in some areas, which can lead to quite a stressful situation if you turn up at a service station and find they’re all in use.

“What’s worse is when you decide to move on to the next station, only to find there’s a queue for those chargers too. I’ve had to make so many excuses, but once I nearly missed a funeral which was the worst feeling of being powerless and sick with worry.

“Some drivers will get out of their car and let you know that they just need another 10 minutes. But those that need a full charge often avoid eye contact as they’re conscious they’ll be there a while.”

Neill Emmett, head of marketing at LeasePlan UK, said: “Our new Happy Charger dashboard timer is all about giving EV drivers greater peace of mind when they’re out and about and simplifying the charging experience. There’s a great sense of comradery within the EV-driving community, so by adding that extra layer of transparency we can ensure we’re all being considerate of one another and enhancing the experience for all.”

LeasePlan has also published advice to help drivers with EV charge point etiquette. For more details, check out its 7 tips for being a happy charger.