New global research reveals a ‘social layer’ shaping EV charging decisions, where word of mouth can carry more weight than traditional navigation tools.
New Driivz research into EV charging recommendations, based on responses from more than 3,000 EV drivers across North America and Europe, shows how recommendations from other drivers can influence where people choose to charge.
Among the key findings:
- 91% would make a detour to charge at a location recommended by another EV driver.
- 76% would avoid a charging network entirely based on a warning from friends or family.
- 55% would travel more than five minutes out of their way for a recommended charging location.
- After a poor charging experience, 79% would warn friends or family, 76% would report the issue through a charging app, and 65% would leave an online review.
The findings also show that drivers looking for an unfamiliar charging location trust specialist charging apps and recommendations from EV-driving friends and family more than traditional navigation and mapping tools. For charge point operators, this creates a closer connection between charging reliability, customer trust, recommendations and future network utilization.
Driivz CEO Shiri Levi-Laor said the research demonstrates how reliable charging experiences build trust, which increasingly influences recommendations, reviews and future charging decisions. The findings reinforce the importance of operational performance as charging networks mature and operators focus more heavily on utilization and customer loyalty.
Explore the full Driivz Social Charging Index for the complete findings from more than 3,000 EV drivers across North America and Europe.