What is Graze Charging and Should You be Doing it?

Graze charging is an emerging trend in the world of electric vehicle (EV) charging, referring to the practice of charging your EV in small increments throughout the day instead of waiting for a full charging session. This approach often involves topping up at various locations; workplaces, shopping centres, or public chargers, rather than relying solely on overnight home charging or full charges at dedicated charging stations. But is it the right approach for every EV owner? Let’s explore the pros and cons.

The Pros of Graze Charging

Cost Savings
Some public chargers offer free or subsidized charging as a perk for customers or employees. Graze charging in these scenarios can significantly reduce your overall energy costs compared to charging at home during peak hours.

Convenience and Flexibility
Graze charging allows EV drivers to take advantage of charging opportunities wherever and whenever they arise. Whether you're grabbing groceries or spending time at the office, plugging in for even a short period can help maintain a healthy battery level without the need to plan long charging sessions.

Battery Longevity
Many experts suggest that keeping an EV battery between 20% and 80% charge is optimal for long-term battery health. By charging in small increments, graze charging naturally aligns with this recommendation, potentially helping to prolong the battery’s lifespan.

The Cons of Graze Charging

Charging Etiquette Challenges
Using public chargers for short periods can raise issues of fairness, especially if you're occupying a charger that someone else might need for a full recharge. Proper charging etiquette becomes critical to avoid disputes or delays for other EV users.

Inconsistent Availability
The convenience of graze charging depends on the availability of charging points where you need them. In areas with limited public infrastructure, relying on this method might leave you without sufficient charge when you need it most.

Increased Time and Hassle
While plugging in for a quick top-up sounds simple, it can add extra steps to your daily routine. Finding an available charger, connecting your vehicle, and ensuring you move it once charged can sometimes feel like an unnecessary chore.

White electric vehicle charging symbol on textured green asphalt background.

Who Benefits Most from Graze Charging?

Graze charging is particularly appealing for EV drivers with access to abundant public or workplace charging infrastructure. For city dwellers without off-street parking or access to home chargers, it can be a practical way to stay charged. Similarly, drivers with smaller battery capacities may find graze charging more essential to their routine.

However, for those with reliable home charging setups, such as those with a Stevie Charger, and have predictable daily mileage, graze charging might add unnecessary complexity to an already straightforward charging process.

The Bottom Line: A Balanced Approach

Ultimately, whether graze charging is right for you depends on your driving habits, access to charging infrastructure, and personal preferences. Rather than committing to one method, many EV owners may find a hybrid approach, combining home charging, full charges when needed, and opportunistic graze charging, the most effective strategy.

What’s your take on graze charging? Share your experiences and thoughts!

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