How to Stop Being ICED

The one thing most electric car owners did not expect to deal with is getting ICED. This is the term for having a public charging station blocked by a car that is not using the charger. It is very frustrating for those who need to charge and are unable due to the blocked spot. As the electric car gains in popularity this act may be reduced in time with fines or better public education. In the meantime owners of electric cars need to take some steps to avoid a bad situation.

If traveling to an area with limited amount of chargers plan ahead just in case the spot is taken and you will not be able to charge. If you have the choice to visit for an example a city center with plenty of chargers it might be worth heading there first and maybe consider public transportation to your destination from the charger. I rather take a bus and know that my car is charging instead of getting to a charger closer to my destination, but not being able to charge.

Always have a backup plan just in case. Study the PlugShare app know where chargers are located along your route. Leave home with a full charge is my number one rule leave nothing to chance. It's not only being ICED, but thing do not always work out. The more educated you are the better chance of a successful trip.

There will be a day that you will be able to get to a charger and not be ICED, but for now being prepare might be the best way to get to where you are going without stress or the possibility of not being able to charge.

Bonus Emergency Tips:

Memorize wall outlets

Look for parking garages with wall outlets

Call ahead and ask and if they have a wall outlet you can use.

Check PlugShare for other EV owners that can let you use their home charger

Paul Scott film "My Lunch With Obama"

Paul Scott has been a pro electric car advocate and has devoted much of his time to advancing the adoption of electric cars by the general public. His work with Plug in America and many speaking engagements makes him a very valuable member of the electric car movement and his plight to meet the President of the United States is now being turned into a documentary.

Paul was willing to spend $32,400 of his own money for a lunch that would give him access to the President for about 2 or 3 minutes. With this short meeting Paul would discuss the economical impact electric cars could make. The meeting never took place Paul was asked not to attend the meeting. It's a fascinating story and an inspiring story for those who have a passion for the electrification of the automobile. With the help of film maker Kelly Richard Olsen the story can be told. They are raising funds for the project through a crowd sourcing web site and I wish them success.

If you would like to watch a little preview and donate to the effort the link is http://www.gofundme.com/My-Lunch-With-Obama they are set up to take donation from various countries and Canada is on the list.