I just tried Shell’s EV charging hub — and it's not the future I want

Toms Guide ^ | 30 Jan 2022 | Tom Pritchard

[DUMBGRUNT]

A gas station-style forecourt isn't necessarily the best option

I’ve always been of the opinion that you should bring EV chargers to the people, rather than asking people to come to the chargers. But admittedly charging hubs aren’t very common, and until very recently they were all too far away to experience first hand.

But at the tail end of last year, Shell opened up its first EV charging hub in Fulham, in West London. It’s still pretty out of the way for me, and the trip involves driving into the heart of the U.K.’s busiest city from nearby Reading. But it’s not so far that I couldn’t check this out for myself, just in case I’ve been totally wrong about EV charging this whole time.

And yes, for those that didn’t know, Shell the oil company is also in the EV charging business. So is BP, which is all really weird to think about.

According to Shell the Fulham hub uses 100% renewable energy, with on-site solar panels contributing around a quarter of its needs.

It was a very painless experience, only really hampered by the fact the price was so high. £0.49 ($0.66). I’m used to rapid chargers being more expensive, but Shell Recharge is the most expensive I’ve ever seen. Back home a rapid charger will cost me £0.30 to £0.35 ($0.40 to $0.47) per kWh, depending on which company’s chargers I’m using. It’s not just London-centric inflation, either, since that is an all-too real problem in the English capital.

According to ZapMap, which lists the vast majority of available chargers, nearby rapid chargers were charging no more than £0.39 ($0.52) per kWh.

[GOPJ]

Thanks - your experience takes into account most cars are still gas powered. And a ‘fill up’ took you an hour...

Holiday 3 day week-ends and evacuations could make that much worse. It’s not sustainable having a vehicle that won’t work in an imperfect world. After a hurricane in Florida we often lose power for days.

I believe electric cars will be the future - IN THE FUTURE. just not now.

[TexasGator]

“After a hurricane in Florida we often lose power for days.”

If you evacuated, what is the problem?

If you stay, an EV could power home essentials.

[2nd amendment mama]

Oh, I’m fully aware that I’m dealing with a low-life troll there! We’ve tangled before. But I really thank you for looking out for me. Appreciate it. :)