Discover the Surprising $17 Trick That Exposed the Huge Challenge Every EV Owner Faces!
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As the world shifts towards greener and more sustainable modes of transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular. However, with this rise in popularity comes a new set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the etiquette and logistics of charging these vehicles while on the road. This was highlighted recently when a seemingly simple request from a guest at a bed and breakfast in Queensland opened up a complex debate about the responsibilities of accommodation providers in the era of EVs.
Mandy Coxon, who has been running the Mossman Gorge Bed and Breakfast near Port Douglas for 27 years, found herself at the center of this debate when a prospective guest asked if they could charge their EV overnight. This was a first for Mandy, and it sent her down a 'big rabbit hole' of questions and considerations she had never encountered before.
The dilemma Mandy faced is one that many small accommodation providers across Australia are starting to grapple with. Should they offer EV charging as a complimentary service, like free Wi-Fi or breakfast, or should they charge a fee to cover the costs? After some research, Mandy discovered that the cost to fully charge an EV could be up to $17, a significant expense for a small business to absorb.
This sparked a lively discussion on social media, with opinions divided. Some argued that offering free EV charging could be a unique selling point for the B&B, setting it apart from competitors. Others suggested a compromise, such as adding a small surcharge to the room rate to cover the electricity costs. However, many felt that charging for the service was only fair, comparing it to the way petrol stations operate.
The implications of this decision extend beyond the relationship between host and guest. Professor Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian from Swinburne University of Technology warned that offering free chargers could have a significant impact on the electrical grid. As EVs become more common, the demand for electricity will increase, and it's important for drivers to be aware of the strain this could place on infrastructure.
To address this issue, one Australian couple has developed a solution that could be a game-changer for shared accommodation and apartment blocks. Alchemy Charge smart points, created by Yasemin and Merich Selvi, can be installed alongside EV chargers. These devices allow users to scan a QR code that links them to the electricity they use, ensuring that only those who use the service pay for it. This innovative approach has already seen success with AirBnB hosts and other short-term accommodation providers.
The story of Mandy's $17 dilemma is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the EV industry as it integrates into everyday life. As EV ownership continues to grow, both drivers and businesses will need to navigate these new waters together, finding solutions that balance convenience with sustainability and fairness.
For our readers who are EV owners or those considering making the switch, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic. How do you think accommodation providers should handle EV charging? Should it be included as a free service, or is it reasonable to expect a fee? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, and let's continue the conversation about the future of travel in an electric world.
Mandy Coxon, who has been running the Mossman Gorge Bed and Breakfast near Port Douglas for 27 years, found herself at the center of this debate when a prospective guest asked if they could charge their EV overnight. This was a first for Mandy, and it sent her down a 'big rabbit hole' of questions and considerations she had never encountered before.
The dilemma Mandy faced is one that many small accommodation providers across Australia are starting to grapple with. Should they offer EV charging as a complimentary service, like free Wi-Fi or breakfast, or should they charge a fee to cover the costs? After some research, Mandy discovered that the cost to fully charge an EV could be up to $17, a significant expense for a small business to absorb.
An accommodation owner faced a unique predicament after one customer asked if they can charge their electric vehicle during their stay. Image Credit: Pexels/Rathaphon Nanthapreecha
This sparked a lively discussion on social media, with opinions divided. Some argued that offering free EV charging could be a unique selling point for the B&B, setting it apart from competitors. Others suggested a compromise, such as adding a small surcharge to the room rate to cover the electricity costs. However, many felt that charging for the service was only fair, comparing it to the way petrol stations operate.
The implications of this decision extend beyond the relationship between host and guest. Professor Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian from Swinburne University of Technology warned that offering free chargers could have a significant impact on the electrical grid. As EVs become more common, the demand for electricity will increase, and it's important for drivers to be aware of the strain this could place on infrastructure.
To address this issue, one Australian couple has developed a solution that could be a game-changer for shared accommodation and apartment blocks. Alchemy Charge smart points, created by Yasemin and Merich Selvi, can be installed alongside EV chargers. These devices allow users to scan a QR code that links them to the electricity they use, ensuring that only those who use the service pay for it. This innovative approach has already seen success with AirBnB hosts and other short-term accommodation providers.
The story of Mandy's $17 dilemma is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the EV industry as it integrates into everyday life. As EV ownership continues to grow, both drivers and businesses will need to navigate these new waters together, finding solutions that balance convenience with sustainability and fairness.
