The Charging Network Experience - Factors affecting the user experience of the electric vehicle public charging network in Sweden

Abstract: The electric vehicle public charging network has been suggested as a major challenge hampering the further adoption of electric vehicles. Little research have applied a user perspective when investigating the charging network, and there is a knowledge gap concerning what affects the charging network experience of electric vehicle drivers. The area of research was limited to include electric vehicle owners, charging point operators and e- mobility service providers. A research model consisting of eight factors derived from previous literature was developed. Through a qualitative research semi-structured interviews were conducted with six electric vehicle users of varying age, sex and experience. Based on the arguments and opinions of interviewees, the factors were separated into those affecting the charging network experience the most, and those affecting it the least. The factors suggested to be affecting the charging network experience the least are: charging time, charging point location, network changes and locating charging points. The factors suggested to be affecting it the most are: charging point density, charging point access, network diversity and payment solutions. This research has contributed with a research model of factors affecting the charging network experience of electric vehicle drivers and applied a user perspective on the public charging network.