New to EVs? Master public charging fast
Got a new EV? Great choice - you're driving toward a cleaner future. Now let's get you confident with public charging with everything you need to know.
Your charging style
Most EV drivers adopt a mix of charging approaches:
- AC charging overnight at home.
- DC fast public charging when they're out and about and need a top up
For public charging, you’ll use either a CCS2 or CHAdeMO connector from a public charger depending on your vehicle. You can find this information in your car's manual or simply check the shape of your charging port.
Why does this matter? Evie chargers have cables for both types, so knowing yours means you can quickly grab the right one when you arrive.
Finding a charger near you
Evie Networks has over 80 fast chargers across Queensland and northern NSW. To find a charger, download the Evie app and create your account. Then, use the app to explore where your nearest chargers are located.
Your first charge: Step by step
Here's exactly what happens when you pull up to an Evie charger:
1. Park and locate your charging port: Pull into the charging bay and park close enough that the cable will reach your charge port comfortably. Most EVs have their charge port on the front quarter panel or rear quarter panel.
2. Open your charge port: Depending on your EV, you might need to press a button on your key fob, tap a button inside the car, or simply push on the charge port door itself.
3. Choose the right cable: Evie chargers have cables attached. Grab the one that matches your connector type - CCS2 or CHAdeMO.
4. Plug in firmly: Push the connector in firmly until you hear a click or feel it lock into place. It should feel secure - if it's loose or wobbly, it's not properly connected.
5. Start your charge: Just above the charger screen you’ll find the station ID. Open the Evie app, select your charging location, select the station ID (e.g. XXXA or XXXB) and then select the right plug (e.g. 1 or 2) and tap "Start Charge." The charger will communicate with your car and begin charging. You’ll see kWh being delivered on the charger screen indicating that charging has started.
6. Monitor your progress: The Evie app shows your charging progress so you can decide when to stop your charge.
7. Stop and unplug: When you're ready to leave, press the “Stop” button on the charger. This will end your charge session, and you’ll be able to unplug the cable. Hang the cable back on the charger, close your charge port, and you're done.
Quick troubleshooting
Charge won't start: Check that the cable is properly locked in (you should hear a click). Make sure you've selected the correct station ID and plug in the app (e.g. XXXA or XXXB, then plug 1 or 2). If it still won't start, try unplugging, waiting 10 seconds, and plugging in again.
Charging slower than expected: If you’ve charged to 80% and above, this is normal as charging naturally slows down after 80%. If you're below 80% and it's slow, check your car's settings. Some EVs have a "slow charge" mode for battery protection.
Cable won't release after charging: Remember to press the “Stop” button on the charger first so that it’ll unlock the cable. If you’re still having issues, refer to your vehicle manual to locate the manual release. If that doesn’t work, contact our Evie support team via the Evie app for assistance.
Make charging even easier
Set up Autocharge: After your first successful charge with Evie, set up Autocharge. It lets you plug in and go – your car automatically starts charging without needing to tap the app.
Practice makes perfect
Before your first big road trip, do a practice charge at your local Evie charger. You don't need to charge much - even going from 40% to 60% gives you the full experience of plugging in, starting a session, and unplugging. It takes the pressure off and means future charging stops will feel like second nature.
Most Evie chargers are located at shopping centers, so you can combine your practice run with errands. You've got this - and once you've charged a few times, it'll become as automatic as filling up with petrol used to be. Welcome to EV driving.
*Discount is valid for personal use for the first 1000kWh of charging every year at selected Evie fast charging stations. For full terms and conditions, visit racq.com/evie
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Things to note
The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.
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