EV Cable Protector Cover Alternatives
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, many drivers are faced with the question on how to charge their vehicle. However, charging at home without a driveway isn’t without challenges, particularly when running a cable safely across the public pavement. This post explores why home charging is a smart choice, the issues surrounding cable management, and the best alternatives to traditional EV cable protector covers.
Why Charge from Home?
Charging your EV at home offers significant advantages over relying on public chargers. For starters, it’s cost-effective. Domestic EV tariffs can be five to ten times cheaper than public charging points, particularly during off-peak hours.
There’s also the matter of convenience. Public chargers aren’t always nearby; even if they are, they may be occupied or out of order. In contrast, home charging is always available when you need it—no queuing, no detours.
However, charging from home isn’t without its challenges. If you park your car on a driveway or private property, it’s simple. However, trailing a cable across the pavement can pose risks for those with on-street parking.
Trailing Cables: Hazards and Legal Issues
Running an EV charging cable across a public pavement creates a trip hazard, which could lead to injuries and legal consequences. Homeowners could be held liable for accidents caused by obstructing public walkways.
While cable protector covers can reduce the trip hazard, they still leave a significant bump on the pavement, are unsightly, and a target for vandalism or theft. Most councils and local authorities ban the use of cable protector covers, with some issuing fines for obstructing pavements.
Alternatives to Cable Protector Covers
Several innovative solutions have emerged to address the issue of safely running EV cables across pavements. Let’s explore some of the alternatives:
Overhead Solutions
Overhead charging solutions involve suspending the cable above the pavement, keeping it out of the way of pedestrians. This method typically requires mounting a bracket or pole on your property to support the cable
While effective in eliminating trip hazards, overhead systems can be expensive to install and be visually intrusive.
Flat Cables
Flat EV charging cables are a simple alternative. Designed to sit flush against the ground, these cables are less likely to cause trips than traditional round cables.
However, as they are not secured, they can still pose a hazard if pedestrians catch them with their foot. Flat cables can also wear out more quickly due to direct exposure to foot traffic.
EV Gully Solutions
An EV gully, such as Charge Gully, is a recessed channel installed into the pavement to house the charging cable. The cable can be neatly tucked inside, leaving the surface unobstructed.
EV gully systems offer several benefits:
Safe and permanent: They are permanently installed into the pavement, flush with its surface.
Discreet: They blend seamlessly with the pavement, maintaining the area’s appearance.
Secure: The cable is held within the channel. Some gullies even ‘lock’ the cable in place, preventing third parties from taking the cable out.
Take the Next Step with Charge Gully
Home charging is the most convenient and cost-effective way to power your EV, but managing cables across pavements requires innovative solutions. With Charge Gully, you can enjoy the convenience of home charging without compromising safety, aesthetics, or compliance.
Charge Gully’s recessed channel system keeps your EV cable safe, discreet, and secure, eliminating trip hazards and blending seamlessly into your environment.
Ready to simplify your EV charging experience? Choose Charge Gully for a safer, smarter, and more practical solution. Visit our website today to learn more and see how Charge Gully can transform your EV charging experience.
