Electric car drivers want more than one option when it comes to selecting a home charger for their electric or hybrid car, according to a new survey, and they are willing to pay for more choice.

The data surrounding the customer journeys of the 8,000 drivers referred to ChargedEV by its partners, shows that in 2022 drivers were more influenced by reliability, technical features and aesthetics ahead of just having a value base model charger fitted to their house.

The survey said:

• 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

• 60% of customers chose a tethered charger over a socket installation 

• More than one third of drivers required solar panel 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, Founder of ChargedEV.

Pymm added: “With many leasing companies and vehicle makers 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 that companies would benefit from offering a wider range of chargers to their customers.”

Customers are happy to pay to upgrade from a basic charger